Wearing Vyshyvanka: iconic photos of famous people

Every third Thursday of May, Ukraine celebrates International Ukrainian Vyshyvanka Day. On this day, Ukrainians and people worldwide salute the centerpiece of Ukrainian traditional clothing — the embroidered shirt known as the “vyshyvanka.” The holiday aims to popularize Ukrainian traditional clothing and honor Ukrainian traditions. 

While previously it would have been uncommon to see a celebrity sporting a vyshyvanka, the item’s popularity has steadily risen in recent years as global brands have been actively trying to weave embroidery into their new collections. As a result, embroidered patterns have become an element of many global catwalks. In 2015, US Vogue gave the vyshyvanka a title of the main trend of the year.

After Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine, the vyshyvanka became not only an item of historical and aesthetic significance, but also an item of clothing capable of conveying support for Ukraine when worn by world leaders and celebrities.

Allow us to share some lesser-known instances of embroidery-wear by famous figures.