Ukrainian Fashion Week took place in Kyiv, Ukraine's capital, from September 4th to September 9th. While less well-known than London or Paris, and even industry insiders may not be familiar with it, this year marks its 21st anniversary. Even before Fashion Week, many people may not have a favorable impression of Ukraine. Its per capita GDP was the poorest in Europe (2016), and while it has avoided civil war since the collapse of its government three years ago, security has worsened in the eastern part of the country bordering Russia. With the territorial dispute with Russia taking center stage in the news, fashion and culture have likely not received much attention. However, this uncharted territory, Ukraine, may offer an opportunity to discover new talent. An increasing number of designers are taking off globally, including Anna October, a 2014 LVMH finalist; Paskal, who has been participating in Paris Fashion Week since last season; and Natasha Zinko, who will be presenting her collection at London Fashion Week this season. Keep an eye out for young designers who were highly praised by journalists and buyers as dynamic brands at this season's Ukrainian Fashion Week.

Anna October

As mentioned above, designer Anna October made a name for herself as an LVMH finalist. The brand revives vintage styles from the 60s to 80s as a modern style, combining a new interpretation with modern femininity. Dresses made from brightly colored cotton and silk materials are the brand's signature. This season's collection, which was shown in a presentation format, was "designed for a stronger modern woman," according to the designer. While the colors are strong, with color blocks of red and blue, details such as puff sleeves and ruffled hems add a touch of sweetness. The cute clothes that adults can wear were well received by buyers.

Anton Belinskiy

Anton Belinskiy is another designer who attracted attention as a finalist for the LVMH Design Award. He creates wearable everyday clothing inspired by Ukrainian culture, sportswear, and streetwear. This season, perhaps reflecting the unstable situation in Ukraine, the theme was "Politicians' Summer Vacation," and Hawaiian prints were used extensively. There were swim trunks and leather jackets, deformed shirt dresses, swimwear looks, and even looks with down jackets on, and even after the show ended I couldn't grasp the whole picture, and I was left feeling uneasy. "The concept of the brand is the bad taste style of people just after the collapse of the Soviet Union, so it's okay if you can't understand and digest the collection," he told me. For him, "uneasy" seems to be the highest compliment.

Ksenia Schnaider

Ksenia Schnaider, already available in select shops in Japan, was launched in 2011 by designer duo Ksenia Schnaider and Anton Schnaider. Their signature pieces are handcrafted vintage denim, and they've expanded their denim offerings with items like patchwork trench coats and fully pleated long skirts. This season, they're also introducing a wide variety of vintage-processed non-denim items, such as double-breasted white dresses and shirts. She spoke about the thoughts behind the collection, saying, "I want to pass on women's wear, which has been passed down since the Soviet era, to future generations."