PODYH, a renowned Ukrainian fashion brand and a KALTBLUT. fave proudly presents its latest collection, “MEREZHYVO,” which draws inspiration from the unique wooden architecture of Chernihiv. This collection captures the essence of the city’s intricate carved ornaments, recalling the delicate artistry of lace.
Chernihiv, with its charming single-story wooden houses adorned with vibrant decorative carvings, serves as a muse for PODYH. These structures embody folk artistry infused with deep symbolism, their whimsical motifs echoing the enchanting embroidery of traditional craft. The vibrant colours and intricate patterns evoke imagery reminiscent of a gingerbread house straight out of Charles Perrault’s fairy tales.
Designer Daria Plaksyuk expresses her admiration, stating, “For me, this architecture, these bright little houses, are a true ode to individuality; they seem to conform to a general concept, yet each is unique in its way. Every ornament, shape, size, and colour combination is unlike anything else. Looking at them, you can feel the zeal and craftsmanship with which the artisans shaped this distinctive exterior. It’s a pity that this came to an end after the arrival of the Bolsheviks and the Soviet occupation, which rejected anything that could set you apart from others.”
The silhouettes featured in the MEREZHYVO collection reflect a thematic restraint, seamlessly blending minimalism with the architectural geometry that characterizes the brand. The collection includes feminine dresses and skirts that exude lightness and elegance, while menswear influences are present in broad-shouldered jackets, straight trousers, and oversized bombers that introduce a sense of structural sophistication.
PODYH’s minimalist aesthetic is interspersed with decorative elements that pay homage to Chernihiv’s lacework. Wooden ornament motifs are beautifully reinterpreted within the collection, showcasing the designer’s innovative vision. Notable features include a protective charm representing a good harvest—teeth resembling flowing water under the cornice—artfully captured in the elongated serrated collar and leaf-inspired decorations. Additionally, the arch above the window, crafted in leather and velvet, evokes the charm of aged wooden facades, while cutouts in the garments echo the traditional carving techniques utilized by Chernihiv artisans.
The colour palette of MEREZHYVO is a playful blend of pastels—milk, blue, mint, and olive—complemented by rich deep shades of red, dark blue, and black. Each hue reflects the individual’s aspirations of homeowners, creating a harmonious connection to Chernihiv’s architectural beauty.
As the wooden architecture that defines Chernihiv gradually fades—whether due to age, neglect, or destruction from conflict—PODYH seeks to underscore the importance of recognizing and preserving the cultural heritage bestowed upon us by our ancestors.
The brand extends special thanks to the “Wooden Lace of Chernihiv” project for their invaluable contributions to the research, preservation, and promotion of Ukrainian architectural heritage.