Where to Buy Authentic Ukrainian Souvenirs: From Handcrafted Treasures to Designer Pieces
From authentic handmade goods to high-end fashion and cultural artefacts, Ukrainian craftsmanship presents a rich variety of meaningful and beautiful options
Authentic Jewelry by Local Artisans
Whether you're seeking a unique accessory or a cultural keepsake, handcrafted jewelry made by local artisans offers both beauty and meaning.
Look for traditional pieces such as the sylianka, gerdan, and zgarda—intricately beaded or metal necklaces that have long been part of the folk dress of the Carpathian region. Each piece reflects regional symbolism, often believed to carry protective or spiritual meaning.
Amber necklaces are another distinctly Ukrainian choice, especially common in the northern part of the country, where natural amber is often sourced and hand-polished into elegant forms.
For one-of-a-kind finds, explore local markets in Yaremche, Kosiv, or stroll down Andriivskyi Descent in Kyiv—a historic street where contemporary artisans and traditional craftspeople come together. These markets are treasure troves of handmade jewelry, offering everything from minimalist designs to richly decorated heirloom-style pieces. Many artisans also sell their work through online platforms and social media, making it easy to order unique jewelry for yourself.
Books: A Window into Ukrainian Culture
Books are a meaningful way to preserve the emotions and impressions of Ukraine, as well as gain inspiration for future travels.
Start with Treasures of Ukraine: A Nation's Cultural History offers a beautifully illustrated journey through the country’s art, traditions, and national spirit. Architecture enthusiasts will enjoy Ukrainian Modernism: Modernist Architecture of Ukraine, a striking visual guide to Ukraine’s 20th-century design legacy.
Looking for more inspiration? Explore Interesting Ukraine, The Beauty of Ukraine: Landscape Photography, or Ukraine from Above—each filled with stunning imagery of nature, cities, and cultural landmarks. And for a closer look at life across the country, Ukraїner. Ukrainian Insider brings together stories of people and places, offering a vivid portrait of modern Ukraine through the eyes of its communities.
Clothing & Accessories: Where Tradition Meets Contemporary Style
Among the internationally acclaimed names shaping Ukrainian fashion are KSENIA SCHNAIDER, known for its signature denim; Frolov, which blends sensuality with couture craftsmanship; and Ruslan Baginskiy, whose iconic hats have been embraced by global celebrities. But these are just a few names—Ukraine’s fashion scene is rich and diverse, combining bold modern design with deep cultural roots.
If you're looking for something more modern, visit designer boutiques in the heart of any major Ukrainian city to discover stylish, casual pieces with a local touch. But also explore Ukrainian brands for traditional clothing and accessories, which reimagine traditional Ukrainian embroidery in contemporary forms—from timeless embroidered shirts (vyshyvanka) to modern dresses with folkloric motifs.
If you are planning a trip to the Carpathian Mountains, you can find hand-knitted clothing made by Ukrainian masters or warm socks crafted from natural sheepskin at local markets. Visit the Kosiv market or Souvenir Market of Yaremche for a traditional gunia or keptar—elements of Hutsul folk dress still worn and cherished today. And don’t miss out on unique accessories like the ladunka—a traditional pocket-shaped bag.
Home Decor: A Touch of Ukraine for Your Living Space
Ukrainian handmade decor brings warmth, symbolism, and artistry into any home.
Consider beeswax candles, often hand-poured or delicately sculpted, which fill a room with a natural scent. Wooden trinity candlesticks, carved in traditional forms, are another meaningful piece—rich in symbolism and perfect as a centerpiece on Christmas or Easter table. And for a seasonal touch, look for handcrafted Christmas ornaments—often made from natural materials and painted with traditional patterns.
Traditional pottery from the Kosiv region, known for its distinctive green and brown glazes and vivid folk motifs, brings rustic charm and authenticity into any space. Another symbolic ceramic tradition comes from Opishnia, considered the pottery capital of Ukraine. Located in Poltava region, Opishnia produces unique sculptural ceramics—often humorous or symbolic.
One of the most recognizable decorative items in recent Ukrainian history is the Vasylkiv maiolica rooster. Made of brightly painted ceramic and known for its rounded form and vibrant folk palette, this rooster became a global symbol of Ukrainian resilience after surviving a bombing in the town of Borodyanka. Today, it stands not only as a traditional decoration but also as a symbol of strength and resilience
You might also find woven textiles such as table runners, hand-loomed towels, woolen carpets, or rugs that combine traditional techniques with modern aesthetics. These pieces often feature patterns symbolizing fertility, protection, or harmony, so they add depth, texture, and meaning to your space.
How to Buy Ukrainian Souvenirs Online
If you can't visit Ukraine in person, you can support its artisans and bring a piece of its culture into your home. Many Ukrainian creators sell their work through online platforms like Etsy, or directly via Instagram and Facebook, where you can often connect with them personally.
When shopping online, look for verified seller profiles, read reviews, and don’t hesitate to message the seller to learn more about the product’s origin or materials. Many artisans will gladly tell you the story behind their craft—and even customize your order.
By choosing Ukrainian-made goods, you're not only getting a beautiful and meaningful item, but also supporting small businesses, help to preserve cultural heritage, and contributing to a resilient creative economy.
Anastasiia Stepanenko, grant writer, project manager, cultural critic, expert at the United Ukraine Think Tank