A woman’s underpinnings completely transforms both her attitude and the way she carries herself throughout the day. There’s a certain confidence and energy that comes from carefully selecting lovely, thoughtful foundational pieces— whether they’re intended to be seen by someone else later that night or are for her eyes only. It’s this powerful magic that Ukrainian designer Lera Zhilyova harnesses and interprets so beautifully in her eponymous lingerie label.
Founded in 2014, the Zhilyova lingerie collection is a study in balanced extremes. They’re feminine and delicate, strong and sexy. There’s an effortlessness to her designs that belies the incredible craftsmanship and dedication that goes into each piece. Zhilyova says that she was first inspired to design during her first visit to Paris; that French influence is obvious in her work, from the French lace to the understated and elegant aesthetic. In fact, the 27 year old works exclusively with Italian and French lace and 100% silk, making each piece incredibly unique and special.
She says “fine do - fine will be. Great things are done with certain care and responsibility.” It’s this philosophy that has made her so successful as the Ukraine’s first lingerie designer— a recent write up on vogue.com attests to that.
Beyond the craftsmanship and beauty of Zhilyova lingerie is the wearability. We’re obsessed with the t-neck bralettes that add a casual sensualness to even a v-neck t-shirt and jeans. Similarly, her halter crop tops worn with a slouchy blazer make for an edgy alternative to the traditional “going out top.”
For as urban and modern as the Zhilyova line is, Zhilyova herself has a strong personal connection to the country. She grew up in a big house with a garden in Kiev and has dreams of owning her own farm house one day. For now, the designer is content in NYC with her cat though she has aspirations to travel to Tokyo soon— she believes her time best spent is traveling around the world. Success for her flawless designs is sure to follow.