Ukrainian veterans showcase resilience at Kyiv fashion week
- Ukrainian Fashion Week returned to Kyiv for the first time since the Russian invasion in February 2022.
- War veterans, both men and women, showcased their resilience by walking the runway with prosthetic limbs, dressed by local designers.
- The event aimed to highlight the adaptability of Ukrainian fashion and the importance of including veterans as integral members of society.
The return of Ukrainian Fashion Week to Kyiv signifies a moment of resilience and adaptation in the face of ongoing conflict. For the first time since the full-scale war began in February 2022, the event featured war veterans walking the runway, proudly displaying their prosthetic limbs. This initiative not only highlights the creativity of Ukrainian designers but also serves as a powerful statement about the strength of those who have endured the hardships of war. Designers Andreas Moskin and Andriy Bilous emphasized the importance of showcasing fashion that caters to individuals with amputations, aiming to redefine societal perceptions of beauty and style. The event was marked by a poignant atmosphere, as attendees celebrated the models while news of a tragic missile strike in Poltava emerged, reminding everyone of the ongoing violence. Iryna Danylevska, co-founder and CEO of Ukrainian Fashion Week, articulated the event's dual purpose: to support the local fashion industry and to raise awareness about the human cost of war. By presenting a narrative of resilience and talent, the event sought to shift the focus from destruction to the creativity and spirit of the Ukrainian people. Ultimately, the fashion week served as a platform for veterans to reclaim their identities and assert their place in society, reinforcing the message that they deserve love, respect, and recognition as integral members of their communities.