Vyshyvanka Day at Otakoï — 21 May 🇺🇦

Wear your story. Come and celebrate together.

A vyshyvanka is never “just” clothing.

For centuries in Ukraine, embroidery was a language - a quiet way to carry identity when borders shifted, empires came and went, and history tried to rewrite who people were. In villages and cities, patterns were passed down like family recipes: stitched by mothers and grandmothers, saved for holidays, weddings etc - moments when you wanted protection, blessing, and beauty to walk with you.

Different regions developed their own signatures. Some patterns were bold and geometric, others soft and floral. Colours carried their own feelings too: red for life and love, black for the earth and strength, white for purity and light. Even when people couldn’t say things out loud, embroidery could still speak - I am from here. I belong. I remember.

That’s why Vyshyvanka Day matters. It’s not only about looking beautiful (though it is beautiful). It’s about continuity - keeping culture alive, especially for those living far from home.

It’s about wearing something that says: we are still here, and our story continues.

On 21 May, we’re celebrating Vyshyvanka Day at Otakoï. If you have a vyshyvanka, wear it.

If you don’t, come anyway - this night is about togetherness, not perfection. Let’s fill the dining room with patterns, pride, and warmth, and celebrate the way we know best: around a table, with Ukrainian food and hospitality.

Wear your vyshyvanka. Come and celebrate with us.