8 Ukrainian fashion brands and designers that need to be on your radar

As the world watches on in horror while Russia continues its raging war in Ukraine, many of us are wondering how we can help, so we've created a guide on how to support Ukraine, from donating to writing to your local MP and supporting some amazing Ukrainian fashion brands.

Because another way to make a difference is by investing in local businesses and designers, who will need our financial support more than ever. So I thought I'd share some of my favourite Ukrainian fashion designers below, in case you wanted to update your wardrobe anyway and are able to show support at the same time.

1. Katimo (opens in new tab)

Creating just two collections a year, Katimo focuses on high quality materials, attention to detail and premium tailoring. This translates into sleek and timeless clothes, which you can build your wardrobe around. The winter collection presented a wide range of clothing made of carefully selected natural materials such as cotton and wool, with timeless cuts, including quilted ponchos and coats, wool pantsuits, silk separates and knitted dresses.

Funds from all order placed from 1st March will go towards supporting the Ukrainian army.

2. Sleeper (opens in new tab)

You'll no doubt already be familiar with Sleeper's designs, one of the best known Ukrainian fashion brands. Founded by former fashion editors Kate Zubarieva and Asya Varetsa, the label was launched it in 2014 and has become known for its feather-trimmed pyjamas and floaty nighties, which double up as the perfect party and holiday clothes.

3. NADYA DZYAK (opens in new tab)

One of my favourite Ukrainian fashion brands, NADYA DZYAK is well known for extraordinary cuts and feminine silhouettes. With 80s-inspired puffed sleeves and signature hand-stitched pleated elements, the latest collection is super extra, yet you can easily mix and match it with more toned-down pieces.

4. Vikele Studio

Vikele Studio bags are designed by founder Victoriya, in Ukraine. Each bag is made of the highest quality Italian leather, and is designed to last a lifetime. The classic shapes blended with modern silhouettes make each Vikele Studio design unique- an investment piece you’ll treasure for years.

5. Norba (opens in new tab)

Norba is a Ukrainian brand of essentialwear - sportswear aimed to be worn in and out of gym - launched in 2018 by two sisters, Olha and Helen Norba. While it focuses on eco-conscious activewear, its minimal pieces can easily be weaved into your everyday wardrobe, whether you're exercising or not.

6. Kachorovska (opens in new tab)

Combining more than a half-century of experience in handmade shoemaking and modern technologies, Kachorovska atelier mastered the art of the perfect fitting shoe, crafted its skills and style, experimented with forms, lines, and materials over decades. In 2015, it released its own line of shoes and handbags - the result of searches, work, and inspiration. They focus on comfortable, temperate designs, self-sufficient classics with unexpected accents and natural materials. A perfect example of how stylish Ukrainian fashion brands are.

7. Ksenia Schnaider (opens in new tab)

KSENIASCHNAIDER is a Kyiv-based independent fashion house founded in 2011 by a married couple Ksenia Schnaider and Anton Schnaider, a Ukrainian fashion designer and a Russian graphic designer.

The collections cover women’s and men’s ready-to-wear, reworked, upcycled, patchwork, denim, and accessories. Ksenia's signature cuts, techniques, and attention to detail, with an emphasis on tailoring and sustainable use of materials, identify the collections, as does Anton's well-defined philosophy 'design minus design'.

8. PASKAL (opens in new tab)

Paskal is renowned for delicate silhouettes and minimalistic shapes, which are reminiscent of innovative architecture and nature. Beauty is derived from the garments core components and construction, laser cutting is at the core of the brand's DNA.

The result is sensitive design with a strong personality.