So the Design Talent Coming Out of Eastern Europe Is on Fire

There are certain cities that are commonly known as the fashion capitals of the world—Paris, Milan, London, Copenhagen, even New York City, depending on who you ask. But one area of the world that deserves more of the fashion spotlight recently is Eastern Europe. Places like Hungary and Ukraine are often overlooked but are producing some of the coolest of-the-moment brands that editors and fashion girls are buzzing about. From Budapest-based brand Nanushka that's taken Instagram by storm to Ukraine's star label Bevza, below are five Eastern European fashion brands that are currently blowing up. 

1. Anna October

Based in Kyiv, Ukraine, Anna October's eponymous label reconstructs vintage styles to create timeless, feminine pieces. Cut to complement the female body, her designs are made of light, breathable fabrics that ensure comfort while taking you from day-to-night in style. Full of bold patterns and interesting details, Anna October has pieces perfect for a special occasion but also wearable in everyday life.

2. Bevza

Another seriously cool brand coming out of the Ukraine is Bevza, a contemporary label designed with timeless elegance in mind. Full of clean silhouettes and beautiful fabrics, the environmentally conscious brand focuses on simplicity and luxury, with much of the collection being white. Bevza launched in 2006 but has really blown up in the past few years, with the above pearl crop top being one of the most Instagrammed pieces. If you're looking for clean lines, graphic cuts, and monochrome colors, this label is right up your alley.

3. Nanushka

Hailing from Budapest, Nanushka was easily one of the buzziest fashion brands of 2019. Launched in 2006 by Sandra Sandor, Nanushka really burst onto the scene in 2016 with the brand's signature vegan leather pieces took the fashion (and Instagram) world by storm. Since then, the modern luxury label shows at New York Fashion Week and has been spotted on the coolest fashion girls on the planet. Nanushka's mission is to deliver a versatile day-to-night wardrobe for the modern human, producing pieces like polished coats, luxurious vegan leather separates, and now even a chic ceramics collection.

4. Áeron Studio

Another one of Hungary's coolest brands is undoubtedly Áeron Studio. Founded by Eszter Áron (whose family was made up of generations of tailors) in 2012, the Budapest-based label is known for its innovative designs and effortless elegance. The minimal yet feminine pieces range from asymmetrical coats to tailored trousers to luxurious leather separates, all clearly designed with dedicated attention to detail. 

5. Olēnich

Founded in 2016, Olēnich is a slow-fashion brand out of the Ukraine that focuses on tailored wardrobe essentials. Made of eco-leather and other high-quality materials, Olēnich's pieces are made to last—they're the kind of timeless items you keep and forever. From classic coats to luxurious knits, each piece is cruelty-free and created using ethical practices.

Next up: 16 trends our editors are wearing in 2020.