After February 2022, I wanted to make a series of scarves with a true Ukrainian mood and my vision of traditions and colours. I wanted to use one of the oldest symbols – the Stars. Such octagonal stars are among the most famous geometric motifs in Ukrainian embroidery and symbolize masculine and feminine origins. This sign is protection against evil and negativity. This type of decorative star is also called – Alatyr. One of the meanings of this symbol is to show the primary eight annual cycles: Christmas, Maslyana, Easter, Trinity, Kupala, Spasivka, Rozhanitsa and Didy. This was and is one of the ancient and powerful symbols of the Ukrainian people.
In Ukraine, the headscarf is an essential element in the daily life of women. The scarf is a woman's life, her amulet. Girls and women wore scarves in all parts of Ukraine. Each region has its traditions and ways of wearing them in its own ways. In winter, they wore woollen; in summer – cotton (calico) or linen.
The colour scheme of scarves varied from bright, light to dark colours. Young women love colourful, floral motifs, ladies – darker and richer colours. The scarf always showed the wealth of the woman who wore it. The men tried to give their wives a prestigious silk scarf. Almost every girl or woman has a scarf because it is always a stylish accessory for her outfit.
This series of silk scarves were created in the most popular colours – yellow and blue. Yellow is the colour of solar energy, life, joy and prosperity. Sky blue and blue are the colours of security and trust. I want every girl or woman who wears my scarf to be wrapped in joy, positive energy and safety.
There are many exciting silk scarves in Ukraine, and it is always a caring gift that brings a good mood to each of us. I want the scarves from my Ukrainian series to bring joy here in Canada.
Part of the proceeds from this collection will be donated to support Ukraine.
One scarf called "Ukrainian Summer" in the new collection that I made in memory of my Mom reminds me of her very much.
