Eight brands transform Ukrainian headscarves into stylish accessories for everyday wear
On Dec. 7, the world commemorates the Day of the Ukrainian Headscarf. NV Life explores Ukrainian brands that transform these headscarves into accessories for chic everyday wear.
In the aftermath of Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine, the scarf has evolved beyond a mere seasonal accessory. Ukrainians have turned it into a means of self-expression, a symbol of national identity abroad, a declaration of their Ukrainian heritage, and a poignant reminder of the ongoing war.
Ukrainian designers have unleashed a wave of creativity, offering many stylish options for Ukrainians looking to embrace this traditional accessory. These scarves boast prints featuring the vibrant colors of the Ukrainian flag, traditional folk embroidery patterns, and even reproductions of mosaics inspired by Ukrainian documentary filmmaking.
In contemporary fashion, scarves are no longer confined to worn solely around the neck. They are versatile accessories, adorning heads, shoulders, wrists, and waists.
Even prominent figures like the U.S. Deputy Assistant Secretary of State, Penny Pritzker, and the President of Moldova, Maia Sandu, have demonstrated their solidarity with Ukraine by donning scarves from Ukrainian brands.
Bervy
Bervy, a Ukrainian brand, specializes in reproducing mosaics from various regions of Ukraine onto silk scarves. Collaborating with famed artists, including Alla Horska, Viktor Zaretskyi, Halyna Zubchenko, Borys Plaksiy, and Hryhoriy Pryshedko, Bervy captures the essence of Ukrainian artistry.
Oliz
Based in Kyiv, Oliz is another standout brand creating silk scarves in collaboration with Ukrainian artists. This collection includes scarves featuring sunflowers in the colors of the Ukrainian flag, a "Peaceful Sky" blue scarf, a scarf aptly named "Borscht," one showcasing "Medicinal Plants," and more.
Dodo Socks
Dodo Socks, the renowned sock brand, has ventured beyond foot fashion to offer a distinctive unisex scarf paying homage to the 130th anniversary of Ukrainian avant-garde poet-futurist Mykhailo Semenko. Emblazoned with a poignant quote from Semenko's poem, "Patagonia — I will not die from death — I will die from life," this scarf serves as an original and meaningful accessory.
Poustovit
Poustovit, led by Ukrainian designer Lilia Pustovit, has introduced a scarf commemorating the resilience of the Ukrainian people. This poignant accessory features selected poems by Lina Kostenko, including "My First Poem," inspired by the bitter memories of war; "Wings," expressing profound love for the native land, and "All mine is called Ukraine," a poetic ode to the homeland.
Shpalta
Shpalta, a brand dedicated to showcasing Ukrainian imagery, has created silk scarves that celebrate the essence of Ukraine. Their latest addition, "Way Home," depicts a rushnyk – a Ukrainian decorative cloth – as a symbol of destiny, accompanied by the vibrant hues of red viburnum.
Gunia Project
Gunia Project, a brand specializing in accessories, consistently dazzles with its seasonal offerings of silk scarves, "kosynky," and cozy cashmere scarves that can double as stylish headgear.
Vozianov
Vozianov, led by designer Fedir Vozianov, has redefined winter headgear by introducing padded silk scarves as a chic alternative. Building on this success, the scarf has become the muse for an entire dress collection.
Zahara
Zahara, the brainchild of designer Lidiya Zakharchenko, stands out with its commitment to upcycling and ethnic fashion. Zahara transforms Ukrainian woolen scarves into dresses and vests, showcasing the brand's dedication to sustainability and cultural expression.
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