Natalija, we know you are from Ukraine and you are looking charming in Grand Duchess linen dress „Iconic”. However, your photos capture images in the United States of America, and the Grand Duchess brand of linen clothes created in Lithuania. How does it all relate?
Yes, I'm from Ukraine, and it's no secret that clothes in Ukraine have always had a sacred meaning. Embroidered Ukrainian traditional national shirts, which are called vyshivanka (in Ukrainian - вышива́нка) are not just clothes - they are amulets, because they were embroidered by loving and caring women (mothers, wives, sisters, aunts, friends), sewing magic into them and putting their energy into them.
The purpose of these clothes is to protect loved ones from misfortunes and diseases. The range of patterns and colors used to embroider Vyshivankas is close to a blooming meadow. During my stay in Seattle (USA), I had to visit the cherry blossoms, which imitate an extremely pleasant and refreshing smell. It is the smell of lightness and dignity - the energy of wild nature ....
This feeling is strengthened by the clothes we are wearing, which have be comfortable, light, with the story and fill with the energy. That's what the Grand Duchess „Iconic“ linen dress is about. For me "Grand Duchess" linen clothes are associated with Lithuanian history, culture, and traditions. The linen quality, lightness, the meaning encoded in the writings, the sewn soul are extremely close to my soul.
We know in Ukraine, that Lithuanian linen is soft, gentle to the skin, comfortable and light.
A Ukrainian woman wearing linen clothes of the Lithuanian brand "Grand Duchess" standing under cherry blossoms in America is very symbolic and harmonious. The three countries created a sense of harmony and comfort for me!
What does blooming nature mean to you, being able to enjoy freedom, to wear natural linen clothes – does it make connection to you?
Blooming, awakening nature, spring – it always associated for me with the beginning of a new life, new plans, freedom. Life should be cozy and comfortable for us, because the better we feel, the bolder we make new plans for the future, believe in them and resolutely set out to implement them. And when we succeed, we feel happier and decide to take on even bolder challenges.
For women it is important that clothes adorn us, but at the same time they have to be comfortable. After all, when we look beautiful and feel comfortable, we immediately feel more confident, happier and more accomplished. It is the beauty of the Grand Duchess linen dress „Iconic“, the lightness of the silhouette and the combination of quality that perfectly fulfils my expectations today - enhancing the feeling of self-confidence and freedom.
Natalija, how has your perspective changed in today's context?
The past circumstances have changed my life and and unfortunately, very scary. The war in Ukraine is a surrealism that I still can't believe and recover from everything... But you have to live and inspire your children, husband and loved ones.
It is in such moments that we start rethink our lives! We begin to look at everything from a different angle, we start to have a new fresh look to the values, moments, events, priorities change: things that we previously did not pay attention to, we pushed to the background, we do not consider them important, we put them in the first place now.
Life is a movement and we shouldn‘t stop and "sink in the swamp of self-pity"... We must go further, towards new goals and ideas, not be afraid of difficulties... Nothing is too late. There are no age limits for development, there is a stop barrier in our head. And once we get over it the word will brighten up with endless opportunities! I continue to enjoy every joyful moment of life, to look good and wear stylish, comfortable and natural clothes!
What were your consumption and purchasing habits before and what are they now?
It is important for me that the clothes and things around me are in harmony with my state of mind and worldview. Therefore, every item in my wardrobe has its own story and meaning. I like to wear things that make me feel comfortable, cozy and I especially appreciate if it is a gift from a dear person or a purchase with pleasant memories.
Comfort, quality, design, tailoring, style are my priorities!
When the garment fits, it doesn't matter if it's trendy or not, it's yours! I found all these qualities in the linen clothes of the Grand Duchess brand. I feel comfortable, confident and beautiful in these linen clothes! It gives me the strength to confidently go through life!
Natalija's look:
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