Welcome to the fascinating world of Khris K, a unique brand that embodies not only luxury and exclusivity but also a deep connection to Ukrainian culture. In this interview with the brand’s founder, Khrystyna Kurliak, we will reveal the uniqueness and sources of inspiration behind her unrivaled creations, as well as find out how Khris K grew up in wartime circumstances and how its design philosophy has evolved over the years.
Amidst the backdrop of Ukraine’s wartime struggles, Khris K was born. Can you delve into the inspiration behind founding the brand during such challenging times, and how has this tumultuous background shaped its identity?
The inception of Khris K has its roots in the midst of Ukraine’s wartime struggles, and its origin is a deeply personal journey that intertwines dreams, artistic inspiration, and an unwavering belief in the power of creativity. It all began with a series of vivid dreams that visited me during my third year at the Musical Academy. In these dreams, I witnessed countless sketches of elegantly dressed women, their silhouettes, and attire etched into the fabric of my subconscious. Each morning, as I headed to classes at the Academy, I translated these nocturnal visions into sketches, capturing the very essence of the dreamt designs before they could fade from memory. This ritual continued for a year, with each sketch becoming an intricate thread weaving a tapestry of inspiration. My notebooks transformed into a visual diary, a testament to the burgeoning ideas that clamored to be brought to life. Confronted with notebooks filled to the brim with sketches, I faced a crucial decision – to take a leap of faith and give life to these designs or to linger in the realm of dreams. The decision was clear; these sketches were not meant to be confined to the pages
of a notebook. The music that had been a constant companion on my artistic journey at the academy became the catalyst, propelling me toward a venture I could never have envisioned for myself. I told myself — “If I don’t try to turn these sketches into reality, I won’t forgive myself.” For me, fashion is an art form. The decision to step into the world of fashion during such challenging times was not just a career shift; it was a manifestation of the belief that art can thrive even in the midst of adversity. The identity of Khris K is thus not only a reflection of personal artistic expression but a tribute to the enduring spirit of Ukraine, woven into every thread and design.
Reflecting on the brand’s journey since 2017, how has Khris K evolved creatively, especially considering the adversities faced by your home country? What pivotal moments have influenced its design philosophy over the years?
Reflecting on our journey since 2017, each year has been a significant test for me, but I always believe in myself and my art. Many times, I got burned, but every trial made me stronger. My collections are my mirror, reflecting my resilience and belief that creativity can
permeate everything. Among all the challenges our country faces, I see an opportunity to express myself through art. I always tell myself, “Be brave and stay true to yourself. If you fall, you must get up because that’s who you are—you have to keep creating art!” Facing adverse circumstances helps me refine and unfold my creative potential. Every challenge is a chance to transform it into expressive art. Thus, the evolution of Khris K is not just the brand’s story but also a narrative of my personal growth and expression. In essence, the path of Khris K since 2017 speaks not only to creative development, but also to the inner strength that helps me rise and grow after each trial. It’s my story of resilience, courage, and self-belief that I gladly share through the art of my collections.
Khris K collections often incorporate elements of music, nature, and cultural influences. Can you elaborate on how these components come together in the design process, and how they contribute to the brand’s distinctive narrative?
Khris K collections weave together music, nature, and cultural influences to create a distinctive narrative. Music serves as a guiding light, providing inspiration. Nature contributes deep emotional connections, while cultural influences infuse a strong spirit. In the design process, these elements harmonize to craft a unique story, enriching each collection with a blend of inspiration, emotion, and cultural strength.
Sustainability is a core value for Khris K, evident in the use of eco-fabrics and zero-waste practices. How do these sustainable initiatives align with the brand’s commitment to luxury, and how do they set Khris K apart in the competitive fashion landscape?
At Khris K, sustainability is not just a value; it’s a commitment woven into the fabric of our brand. We prioritize using high-quality eco-fabrics like cupro silk, organic cotton, hemp, linen, wool, and feathers, reflecting our dedication to natural materials. What truly sets us apart is our zero-waste approach. Every garment is meticulously designed to minimize waste, with remaining fabrics and cut-offs repurposed for future collections and even for our unique buttons. Crafting buttons from small fabric cut-offs not only adds an elegant touch to our designs but also showcases our dedication to sustainability, becoming a signature
feature of our brand. Our dedication to uniqueness is embodied in our handmade approach. Most of our garments are meticulously crafted using various techniques like embroidery, macrame, and bead work. This handmade touch adds an element of exclusivity to our collections. Speaking of exclusivity, we pride ourselves on creating timeless pieces, with almost every garment presented as a single unit. This means that when you choose a Khris K item, you’re selecting something truly one-of-a-kind.
In summary, our sustainability initiatives aren’t just about ethical responsibility; they are integral to our luxury and uniqueness. In a competitive fashion landscape, we believe that a commitment to both ethical practices and individuality can be a powerful differentiator, creating a brand that stands out for its values as much as its style.
The decision to relocate the team and studio from Ukraine to Lisbon during the war is a significant chapter in Khris K’s story. How did this challenging choice impact the creative process for the “Rebirth” collection, and how do you manage to keep a connection with your homeland?
I relocated my team for a brief two-month period, specifically to create the ‘Rebirth’ collection in an environment free from the daily alarms and uncertainties of war in Ukraine. While the physical location changed temporarily, my studio and production remain firmly rooted in Ukraine. The decision was a strategic one, allowing us to focus on the creative process without the disruptions of the war. Despite the physical distance, the connection with my homeland persists, serving as a continuous well of inspiration for future collections.
With a focus on popularizing Ukrainian culture, how do you infuse cultural elements into your designs, and what aspects of Ukraine’s rich heritage do you aim to highlight on the global fashion stage?
In a world that often seeks to divide, Ukrainians have shown the extraordinary power of unity and cohesion. During the War, our collective strength and resilience have been admired globally. This journey has reshaped not only our nation but individuals, including myself, as both a fashion designer and as human. I would like to show how strong, intelligent and powerful we are, how rich our native elements of world culture are! My mission is to share and popularize the richness of Ukrainian culture, one of the world’s oldest, with roots tracing back to the Cimmerians, Scythians, Sarmatians, and the ancient Trypillian culture. My collections aim to encapsulate the spirit, character, and deep roots of Ukrainians, presented in modern designs. It goes beyond traditional Ukrainian clothing like Vyshyvanka, delving into the diverse historical influences spanning different centuries in Ukraine. These accents and details are woven into my creations, showcasing a fusion of the present and the future. The goal is to illustrate the timeless essence of Ukrainian culture and present it on the global fashion stage, bridging history with contemporary design to tell a story that transcends borders and connects with audiences worldwide.
Looking ahead, what can we anticipate from Khris K in terms of future collections and the brand’s influence on the fashion industry? Are there specific goals or projects on the horizon that you are particularly excited about?
With each new collection, Khris K will continue to surprise and showcase Ukrainian fashion to the world. The brand’s commitment to sustainability, uniqueness, and exclusivity will remain unwavering. We have exciting projects on the horizon that aim to inspire and motivate people. The specifics? Stay tuned; you will see very soon.
Interviewed by
ELVIRA GAVRILOVA
