What does OksyMyr mean? It's the first three letters of my first name, Oksana, and my last name, Myronyak.
OksyMyr was born just a few months after the beginning of the war in Ukraine, with a mission based on two fundamental pillars: to financially help the embroiderers who have stayed in the country, despite the harsh conditions, and at the same time, to transport and make known our work and culture throughout the world.
I started by ordering the first blouses from my family and neighbours in my hometown in the Ivano-Frankivsk region in western Ukraine, an area known for its strong artisan tradition. Little by little, I started to contact more people from different parts of Ukraine, meeting new artisans, and so our product varied and grew.
Our aim is to continue to involve more people, provide more work in Ukraine and help those in need, as well as spread our culture throughout the world.
OksyMyr's philosophy is to offer a unique product on the market, creating tailor-made, personalized and exclusive garments, while helping and caring for people who work in Ukraine, providing them with a source of income and attending to their needs.
OksyMyr's strengths are undoubtedly the production of custom-made garments, personalized according to the taste of our clients, using mainly hand embroidery and details. The most commonly used techniques in our garments are cross-stitch on blouses and dresses, the artisanal appliqué technique and Richelieu. All dresses are made in a small atelier in kyiv. Currently, our team consists of about 10 people.
Embroidery is a textile art that has been an integral part of many cultures throughout history and around the world. It not only beautifies garments and textiles, but also conveys stories, symbols and traditions.
In the current war context, especially in Ukraine, embroidery is a rich heritage that reflects our cultural and social identity throughout history. In my country, the Vyshyvanka is an embroidered shirt that represents both a traditional garment and a symbol of resistance and national pride.
Embroidery, by its nature, transcends linguistic and cultural barriers, allowing people to express their creativity, identity, values and life experiences. Embroidery motifs and patterns tell stories, representing shared beliefs and values, passed down through the years. We are proud to wear them at important celebrations and events. In times of war, embroidery allows generations to continue to pass on their culture, while representing a symbol of unity and hope.
Embroidery is therefore more than just a decorative technique: it is a powerful means of communication and expression that connects people across time and space, reflecting the richness and diversity of our culture.