SPOTLIGHT ON: O.TAJE

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.

“99% perfect and 1% sparkle”

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 I’m writing this, I remembered that one of 8 items in my parcel was an O.TAJE sweater engraved with “russian warship go fuck yourself” – as classic & timeless as it gets in 2022.

Support #madeinukraine

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.

Org helping animals during the war – shelters, zoos, eco parks, farms and more.

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.