On Wednesday, Queen Letizia of Spain showed her support for the people of Ukraine by wearing a vyshyvanka, a traditional embroidered blouse worn by the people of Ukraine and Belarus. While members of the royal family are generally encouraged to remain politically neutral, this symbolic outfit was imbued with meaning and demonstrates fashion’s ability to convey a message.
If you want to make your own statement, you can do so by supporting Ukrainian-owned brands or buying brands that donate profits to the Ukrainian people (like DRESSX’s Collection “Support Ukraine”).
(Image credit: future)
(Image credit: future)
(Image credit: future)
The vyshyvanka is a versatile bohemian piece with a rich history. Like the evil eye, the vyshyvanka pattern is considered a talisman against bad luck and can be worn by people of any age or gender. According to spiritual tradition, each point in this piece is imbued with spiritual significance.
While the style is gorgeous and would be a welcome addition to anyone’s wardrobe, it’s essential to avoid cultural appropriation by researching the piece’s origins and buying from Ukrainian brands (or Belarusians). You may already be familiar with popular Ukrainian brands such as Ienki Ienki, Anna October, Bevza, and Zhilyova, but read on to learn more about inimitable Ukrainian pieces.
Etnodim Lito embroidered shirt with floral ornament
Neutral color embroidery on this blouse can gracefully take you from warm weather to fall and winter.
White blue linen embroidered shirt in Petrykivska Flower White
Not in color? No problem. This all-white vyshyvanka is a great option for those who love the style but opt for a more understated look.
Vala Embroidered Oxford Dress: Laly
Not only is this dress a faithful homage to traditional Ukrainian fashion, but its unique hemline and midi length bring old-world style perfectly to the present.
Foberini Camelia Blouse Blue
Vyshyvankas don’t have to be white! This sky blue option from Kyiv-based Foberini comes in white, beige, and this gorgeous shade of sky blue.
Katimō dress “Remedios”
Minimalist embroidery at the waist of this long, flowing dress is reminiscent of vyshyvanka embroidery, and we love this Kiev-based brand’s commitment to marrying Ukrainian tradition with modern utility.
Scented Beige Ptaha Dress with Embroidered Sleeves
The feminine yet structured silhouette of this dress makes it perfect for work Where player.
Turia Embroidered Dress 2Kolyory
I can’t explain how much I love this dress. As someone who doesn’t like sleeves, I appreciate the ability to indulge in vyshvyanka without any additional fabrics.
Vita Kin Colette blouse
This cropped, oversized blouse is a modern take on an old-school style, and we love it with the matching skirt.
SVITLO “Tree of Life” dress
We love this sheer, summery vyshyvanka from SVITLO. Wear it over silk briefs, a black jumpsuit or as a cover-up in the summer.
Vyshyvanka by Masik Valeriy Yellow Dress
Stand out from the crowd and celebrate the start of warmer weather with this yellow option from Masik Valeriy.
Black “Robot” tie pants
The vyshyvanka can be teamed with anything from jeans (check out Ukrainian denim brand Ksenia Schnaider, for example) to leggings to a skirt, but we love how Queen Letizia matched hers with a pair black pants, like these from Ukrainian-brand TTSWTRS, which sells fashion-forward sportswear, basics and underwear.
Wool poncho with pompoms Gunia Project
Looking to really complete Queen Letizia’s look with an elegant black coat? Check out this one, with subtle red detailing and tassels reminiscent of vyshyvanka embroidery and tassels.
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