Attempting to resurrect my sanity and optimism, I was researching working Ukrainian fashion brands to include in my Support Ukraine & Ukrainian Brands Catalogue posts 1 month into the war – this is when I discovered Siyay – later rebranded to O.TAJE. I immediately knew I was placing an order – this brand speaks to my style the way very few can.
Sure, I’m buying strictly #MadeInUkraine this year & sure, I’ve been low-key weak to swiping a card on items seen on my fashion icons (O.TAJE is worn by Tina Karol, Lida Lee, Dasha Astafyeva and many more of my Ukrainian girl crushes), but this brand was landing in my fall wardrobe regardless.
Signing for a large parcel from Kyiv, this 3-piece set was only 1 of 8 items in it. Oops.
Is the brand’s motto, as well as not forcing a customer to choose between trendy and classic styles. I still think the overall vibe of the brand leans towards classic and probably also cozy – most clothes look comfortable, a rarity in the trendy world.
Wow, haven’t talked about sustainability in a hot second on this blog – but comfort is one of the keys to a sustainable wardrobe. I always recommend buying classic styles, intertwining them with your personal style and self expression, but finding items you truly feel comfortable in creates the ultimate formula to clothing longevity.
As always, a public service announcement: Ukraine needs our support to continue courageously defending their land & people, culture & traditions, freedom & safety of the whole world. I want to use my platform to offer some confirmed organizations to donate to! Even $1 makes a difference today.
Support the Armed Forces of Ukraine through donations for tactical & military aid.
Support the Armed Forces of Ukraine through financing purely defence initiatives.
Support my hometown – Sumy. Money raised is used to support territorial defenses.
Support a volunteer association “Zgraya” – helping soldiers, civilians & animals.
Donate to purchase medicine to send to wounded soldiers & hospitals on the front lines.
Donated $10? Let’s keep going.
Purchasing O.TAJE, you don’t just support the revival and maintenance of Ukrainian economy, not just local brave artists creating gorgeous garments during war, but also obtaining a piece that may be classic – but stands out in a sea of fast fashion.
“Due to military operations, order processing takes 3-5 business days”, states the website but I recommend accounting for a month of waiting – the items will have to go through production, processing & customs, all during an aggressive war.
Let’s start a conversation. Tell me a little about yourself and what you thought about the post!
I approach this blog as a diary – taking you on my honest sustainable fashion & lifestyle journey, with sustainability aspects I slowly adopt, struggle with and feel passionate about. I’m building INNABOSE.COM to be an informative, visual & creative resource inspiring even the smallest changes in the world.
GENERAL BLOGGING TOPICS YOU’LL FIND HERE INCLUDE
#sustainablefashion
I’m also a Ukrainian New Yorker – having strong pride and patriotism for both: my homeland and my current home . For years, I’ve been on a side mission to capture my stunning NYC and elevate the depth and beauty of my Ukrainian culture, fashion and language (some of my posts are in Ukrainian!)
February 24, 2022 – my digital space shifted to include information about russia’s war on Ukraine, the devastation and destruction my home country is dealing with and the bravery, strength and inspiring spirit they are facing it with. A large portion of my posts today highlight Ukrainian brands, fashion, culture & the strong, incredible Ukrainians making gorgeous clothes you can buy & support local businesses, economy & people fighting for freedom every day. We are also a community who donates to Ukrainian organizations found in any of my recent posts!
#standwithukraine
Inna Bose