Ukrainian Designer Turns Embroidery into Symbols of Identity and Resilience

Svitlana Volyk, founder of the Ukrainian embroidered clothing brand SVOE, has transformed her personal connection to traditional dress into a nationally recognized fashion label with deep cultural impact.

Launched in 2019 in Sumy, SVOE blends Ukrainian symbolism with contemporary design and storytelling. Svitlana recalls that wearing a traditional embroidered shirt for the first time felt like “touching my roots” — an experience that shaped her creative path. Today, her one-of-a-kind, handcrafted pieces tell powerful personal and collective stories through collections such as Sumy Cossacks, Ukraine, Sunflowers, and How Are You? — the latter bringing national attention to First Lady Olena Zelenska’s mental health initiative.

SVOE designs have been worn and presented by prominent figures, including U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Ukrainian boxer Denys Berinchyk, who entered the ring in SVOE’s Victory Cloak.

With recent support from the Women’s Opportunity Fund, Svitlana strengthened her production by acquiring premium Italian linen and professional mannequins, elevating quality and enabling more sustainable growth.

Through SVOE, Svitlana continues to share stories of Ukrainian identity, resilience, and craftsmanship — in Ukraine and around the world.