On 16 October 2024, Kyiv National University of Technologies and Design hosted a lecture “My way in FASHION” by Golda Vynohradska, Head of the National Sectoral Partnership in the Light Industry of Ukraine, designer, founder and project manager of FashionGlobusUkraine, Vice President of the Confederation of Designers and Stylists of Ukraine, a practitioner.
The lecture was attended by students of the first (bachelor’s) and second (master’s) levels of higher education majoring in “Fashion Industry”, “Design and Technology of Garments”, “Styling, Design and Artistic Decoration of Fashion Industry Products”, Dean of the Faculty of Arts and Fashion Natalia Ostapenko, Head of the Department of Fashion Technology Olha Haranina, Head of the Department of Fashion and Style Tetiana Struminska and the academic staff members.
The speaker spoke about her many years of experience in the fashion industry and told the students about the peculiarities of the development of the fashion industry in Ukraine, as well as her path to success. The lecture covered both practical advice for young designers and general trends and challenges faced by the Ukrainian fashion industry.
Mrs Golda emphasised that finding and choosing one’s own path in the fashion world is an important step for young designers, especially in Ukraine, where the fashion industry is developing rapidly and becoming more globalised.
The speaker outlined that it is important for a young designer to define their own identity, which helps them stand out among other artists. Cultural heritage, country’s history, current events – all this can be a source of inspiration that will make collections unique.
Identifying the target audience and market is an important aspect for young designers. The Ukrainian fashion market, although relatively young, has the potential to grow. By finding their way and understanding the needs of their audience, designers can better adapt their collections, respond to consumer demands and achieve success both in Ukraine and abroad.
The uniqueness of Ukrainian fashion also lies in the use of traditional crafts, textiles and techniques. Young designers who integrate local traditions into modern models can not only stand out, but also support the economy of the region and the country. This helps to develop the fashion ecosystem in Ukraine, creating new jobs and strengthening cooperation between designers and manufacturers.
The modern fashion world is closely connected with digital technologies: 3D digital design, virtual prototyping, additive manufacturing, virtual showroom, digital avatars, etc. These technologies allow to reduce the number of samples, speed up prototyping, reduce environmental impact and shorten decision-making time. Young Ukrainian designers who actively use these technologies have the opportunity to create competitive products on the global market.
Mrs Golda also shared information about the application of 3D technology in the fashion industry during the implementation of the European Erasmus+ 3D4U grant ‘3D Concepts for Fashion Education in Ukraine’ together with KNUTD lecturers.
Involvement in international fashion events, exhibitions and competitions helps designers enter new markets, gain knowledge and inspiration. Ukrainian designers have the opportunity to participate in events such as Ukrainian Fashion Week, as well as international shows, which allows them to gain valuable experience and establish new contacts.
Modern consumers are increasingly paying attention to ethical fashion, sustainability and environmental aspects of production. For Ukrainian designers, this can be an important advantage if they can integrate these principles into their business.
In general, finding their own way in the fashion world is strategically important for young Ukrainian designers, allowing them not only to realise their creative potential but also to strengthen their positions on the global stage while maintaining their own identity.
We are sincerely grateful to Golda Vinohradska for the event, which has become an important source of inspiration and valuable information for students and teachers!
22.10.2024
