Ukrainian brands KSENIASCHNAIDER, PASKAL and FROLOV introduced Autumn Winter 2023 collections at London Fashion Week, on February 21, 2023, within Ukrainian Fashion Week International Sea- son AW23 that is taking place out of Ukraine due to the full-scale Russian war.

Despite the air raid sirens and missile attacks, Ukrainian designers continue to create and Ukrainian Fashion Week continues to support them in the second international season. We express our utmost gratitude to the British Fashion Council and London Fashion Week for the support and opportunity for Ukrainian brands KSENIASCHNAIDER, PASKAL and FROLOV to introduce AW23 collections at London Fashion Week within a joint show.

The show of Ukrainian designers became possible due to the support of USAID Competitive Economy Program in Ukraine.

KSENIASCHNAIDER

The new collection is not only a celebration of joy and positivity but also a powerful symbol of resilience and resourcefulness.

KSENIASCHNAIDER AW23 collection was designed during the war and produced under air raid sirens in Ukraine. The collection, which is inspired by the designer’s escapism into a world full of joy, features bright colours and playful designs. Despite the challenging circumstances in which the collection was created, KSENIASCHNAIDER managed to infuse it with an air of hope and positivity.

One particularly notable part of the collection was made from dead stock ties. This is a powerful symbol, as men in Ukraine no longer need ties – they are wearing military uniforms instead. The collection is also notable for its commitment to sustainability. In addition to the upcycled ties, the brand has used eco-friendly materials throughout the collection, ensuring that every piece is as kind to the planet as it is beautiful.

PASKAL

For the first time in three years, PASKAL is back on the runway. Ukrainian brand reveals the new collection Out of Cocoon.

One look at butterfly wings can change everything…The primary leitmotif of the Out of Cocoon col- lection — a butterfly — is exposed on the voluminous tops, mini-dresses, and skirts. Consequently, natural heavy silk is a dominant fabric, which shapes the playful flowing PASKAL silhouettes.

Julie Paskal examines honesty and sexuality with a mature and sensual approach. The beauty feels direct and raw, free of illusions, still imaginary. The cutouts are covered with laser-cut butterflies, their transparency enhances the body- and spirit-revealing capability of the PASKAL designs.

FROLOV

In the new collection, FROLOV turns to archives and memories.

The FROLOV brand was established precisely ten years ago. While working on his first student collection, Ivan Frolov was inspired by drag and transgender culture. A decade of exploration and technological improvement, reflections of the current events in Ukraine, and the value of Ukrainian cultural heritage are what Frolov imbued his new collection, Song after Song, with, which was literally created with the accompaniment of Ukrainian lyrical songs.

The collection includes citations of iconic FROLOV pieces: Hand-knit sweaters Pokokhala ya do bolyu, as well as sweaters with the Ukrainian fertility symbol, grain ear. Corset dresses hand-embroidered with Swarovski crystals. FROLOV remains faithful to the brand’s concept and in highlighting the heart- the everlasting element of the brand.

In the final Ksenia Schnaider, Julie Paskal and Ivan Frolov come out united by the Ukrainian flag with the UNITED24 logo. UNITED24 is the official fundraising platform of Ukraine launched by President Zelenskyy. The goal of the President’s initiative is to unite people worldwide in their will to support Ukraine.

SHOW CREDITS

PR Agency: PURPLE
Makeup: Dominic Skinner for M·A·C Cosmetics
Hair: TONI&GUY International Artistic Director and the TONI&GUY SessionTeam using label.m Production: Blonstein Creative Production
Catering: Selfridges
Project Partner: UA in UK Community
In-house photography: Studio Arkō @wearearko