Kyiv’s First Fashion Week Since the Beginning of Russia’s Attacks Sees Designers Support Local Industry and Culture as They Push Onward
Ukrainian Fashion Week has made a poignant return to Kyiv, marking the first time in two years that the event has been held in the capital city. Running from September 1 to 4, this year’s showcase spotlights the country’s spirit of resilience and hope as, despite the ongoing war, more than 50 Ukrainian brands have committed to presenting their Spring 2025 collections. These collections will be unveiled through various formats, including fashion shows, presentations, installations, performances, and trade shows.
Iryna Danylevska, Founder and CEO of Ukrainian Fashion Week, emphasized the significance of the Ukrainian fashion industry’s physical return to Kyiv: “Despite missile attacks, air raid sirens, and daily challenges, our commitment remains to supporting our designers with their creativity and business growth… We aim to showcase the creative power and courage of the Ukrainian fashion scene to the world, bringing Ukrainian Fashion Week back to Kyiv. The voice of Ukraine has to be heard.”
Safety remains a top priority during the event. Venues and accommodations are equipped with bomb shelters, and shows will pause for air raid sirens, resuming afterward. “Nothing will stop fashion week this time, not even Russia’s constant provocations,” Danylevska stated, underscoring the fashion community’s resolve. Ksenia Schnaider, one of the participating designers, described the event as “more than just a fashion event; it’s a statement of resilience and creativity under the most trying circumstances.” Her collection, a blend of sustainable practices and innovative designs, reflects the duality of hope and hardship, mirroring the current realities faced by Ukrainians.
This year’s UFW also highlights the crucial role fashion plays in Ukraine’s cultural and economic resilience. Many designers have adapted their operations to continue creating under challenging circumstances. Meanwhile, as part of efforts to boost the domestic fashion market and support the local economy, organizers have invited Ukrainian buyers from regions like Lviv and Ivano-Frankivsk, which have been instrumental in supporting Ukrainian brands during the war. “Our aim is to support and scale the domestic market as well,” Danylevska said, expressing hope for new orders and opportunities within Ukraine.
The return of UFW to Kyiv has been supported not only by designers but also by Ukraine’s First Lady, Olena Zelenska, who expressed her support through a video announcement last month. “Our goal is to support and inspire, uncover new talents that have emerged during these challenging times, and showcase to the world the resilience and creativity of the Ukrainian fashion scene,” Danylevska added.
In addition to showcasing their work, many designers are actively involved in initiatives that are supporting the country’s affected citizens and threatened cultural heritage. For example, Ivan Frolov has dedicated a section of his brand’s website to various charitable causes, including providing modular houses for families affected by the war. Gunia Project has also engaged in significant charitable efforts, including producing a historical ethnographic art album in partnership with the Ivan Honchar Museum.
For many designers, returning to Kyiv for UFW is both a professional and personal milestone. Frolov, who hasn’t shown in Ukraine since 2020, sees this as an opportunity to reconnect with the local community and convey a powerful message to the world. “It’s not just about the clothes, about the show, it’s about connecting with big media that can show the world very important topics, show them what’s going on in Ukraine and reflect all the truths,” Frolov said.