Shop and Support: Ukrainian Fashion Houses to Know
Words by By Rosalie Gadoua-Giroux, Writer
For the past month our attention has been focused upon the conflict in Ukraine. There are numerous efforts both locally and nationally to support Ukrainians, but it is still easy to convince ourselves that there is nothing we can do to help. We know, however, this is not the case. In our very own St Andrews community, the Ukrainian flag has been hung in many windows and public spaces, a vigil attended by hundreds took place in St Salvators quad, and there was a minute of clapping in support of Ukraine during the 150th Open celebration. In reality, there are even ways for one to help Ukrainians practically that extend beyond showing support through demonstration: by sending money, volunteering, or if possible, opening one’s home to refugees. Another important way to help those affected by war is by supporting their businesses. This article will present a series of fashion labels founded or based in Ukraine, that you can show support for now or in the months to come.
Elena Burenina founded the business which wears her name all the way back in 2006. Since then, she has received countless awards, the opportunity to study fashion at Central Saint Martins and the opportunity to represent Ukrainian fashion on the international stage, notably, by designing the outfits of the national team for the 2017 edition of Eurovision. Her line’s style can be described as minimalist, deconstructed and sophisticated and most of her clothes are made in neutral or light colours. The beauty of her collections is that they encompass a multitude of designs that differ in formality: some can be worn at lunch with friends while others could be worn to black tie galas. Since 2020, the brand also offers quality jewellery on top of their clothing line. You can support Burenina’s business through her Instagram, @elenaburenin.
It takes a special kind of woman to pull off designs made by Frolov. Case in point, some of his most fervent admirers include Rita Ora, Gwen Stephanie and Dua Lipa. Sexy is the watchword for this brand; creative director Ivan Frolov is said to explore themes of love, BDSM, sex and fetishes when creating a new collection. The brand places emphasis on corsets, lace, slits and tight silhouettes. While Frolov is not necessarily a brand that could be worn around St Andrews, exploring its theatricality is an experience in itself. All garments are made in Ukraine so not only are you supporting the brand by buying, but also the countless employees creating the clothes on site: https://frolov.fr/
Sleeper, founded in 2014 by Kyiv-based Asya Veretsa and Kate Zubarieva is a brand that requires no introduction, and might just be my favourite on this list. Best known for their fun pyjamas which have been worn by big names in Hollywood, the company has recently been diversifying its production with swimsuits as well as feminine off-the-shoulder dresses. While the pyjama sets might set you back a pretty penny, they are truly beautiful and are a good alternative to other, even more expensive, nightwear brands. Sleeper’s founders have been vocal about the crisis in their home country and have recently given an interview to Vogue Britain about the reality faced by their nation today. They have also posted a number of job openings, specifically inviting Ukrainian refuges to apply. You may support them by buying directly from their website, or through any of their partners such as Selfridges, NET-A-PORTER and Farfetch to name a few: (https://the-sleeper.com/en/).
This last brand is for all my ultra-feminine girls looking to revamp their summer wardrobes. ELENAREVA, named after the woman who founded it, has been in business for 10 years and while it still might not have the same international reputation as other labels on this list, trust me it deserves it. The brand is well-known for often collaborating with young Ukrainian designers who bring their own creativity to the collections they participate in. Emphasis is placed on silky dresses, flowing palazzo trousers and bustier tops. Wearing this label might come at a higher price than others mentioned here, but the pieces are incredibly sophisticated, timeless and will last you a lifetime. Even though I have just discovered ELENAREVA, I can already tell this is going to be one of my new favourite designers and I am looking forward to adding some pieces to my own closet. http://elenareva.com/
