Ekaterina is featured on September`s page of the 2021 Ukrainian Heritage calendar. This is her story:

Living abroad compels you to a new way of life and learning of a new culture and language.  And there is nothing else like the soulful get-togethers with fellow Ukrainians that bring back the memories of our homeland and our traditions.

The Ukrainian San Antonio, non-profit, organized a trip to Georgia for a charitable project of 2021 Ukrainian Heritage Calendar featuring antique Ukrainian clothes.  This was also a wonderful opportunity to bring together and connect local Ukrainians. 

I am very happy I was a part of this truly magical experience!  When I was wearing the clothes from Guzul region of Ukraine I felt the history of these colorfully embellished clothes.  The embroidery on the shirt, the beaded design of the head piece, and the overall color palette of the costume are very specific to Guzul region of Ukraine.

Without a doubt, a Guzul woman is impassioned and ardent.  Her impeccable sense of style is also evident in her jewelry that is made from readily available materials such as wood, beads, thread, and copper coins.  Everything that was handmaid by our great grandmas is authentically beautiful and has a sense of mystery and history.

When you wear the Guzul clothing, you feel the transformation into a tender and, at the same time, attractive and passionate woman.  Guzul clothing underscores one’s natural beauty and good taste and brings a feeling of glamour.  The embroidered shirt I wore made a special impression on me.   No wonder they say vyshyvanka (embroidered shirt) is our Ukrainian identity, our history, our strength, and way of thinking and being.

For me personally, embroidered clothes are a part of our national culture, Ukrainian traditions and, nowdays, a fashion trend.  For others, embroidered clothes are the family history and relic.  Regardless of where we are in this World, when we put on traditional Ukrainian clothes we are inspired to boldly declare to the World: “We are proud we are Ukrainians!”