On May 18, 2025, at the historic Villa Domergue, in the very heart of the 78th Cannes Film Festival, the third Ukrainian Fashion Film Festival took place — an event that became the voice of Ukrainian culture, a symbol of unity and gratitude for the support in times of hardship. Here, culture triumphs and speaks the language of fashion, music, gastronomy, cinema, and heartfelt human connection.
Cinema and Cultural Diplomacy
The festival’s film program featured the presentation of new Ukrainian projects, hosted by curator Kateryna Haiduk from the “Ukrainian Producers Hub” and the NGO “Union of Entrepreneurs in the TV and Film Industry”. Guests were introduced to trailers, concepts, and international film plans from Ukrainian producers.
Fashion as a National Code
The UFFF runway turned into a visual chronicle — a fashion map of Ukrainian identity. The genetic code of the nation, conveyed through imagery, led the audience from the era of Kyivan Rus and the Hetmanate to modern-day Ukraine.
Looks inspired by the Kyivan and Hetmanate periods were crafted by artist Kateryna Potlova with jeweler-like precision and historical dignity.
Contemporary fashion visions were presented by GASANOVA, MOGARDI, and the jewelry brand Amber Hats.
Children’s brands AnnaSoul and ByVel added tenderness and a fresh perspective.
The art zone featured the project “25 Sisters of Independence” by Tetyana and Natalka Katrychenko— dolls that reproduce unique embroidery techniques from every region of Ukraine. 25 dolls represent the 24 oblasts and the Autonomous Republic of Crimea. This collection showcases the beauty and diversity of Ukrainian embroidery. We are different, but we are united!
The beauty zone was presented by the brands Mesonia and BEEHIVE.
Music That Speaks Without Translation
The festival stage featured performances by Kalush Orchestra, Oleh Skrypka, Yevhen Khmara, Helya Zozulia, and MONATIK, who closed the evening with the national anthem of Ukraine, performed together with the audience. The space echoed with “Glory to Ukraine!” — “Glory to the heroes!”, chanted by guests from all around the world.
Particularly noteworthy were performances by Elnara Osmanova, who commemorated the Day of Remembrance of the Deportation of Crimean Tatars, and young Alina Ostin with the song “Ukraine Is You”.
Gastronomic Diplomacy
Modern Ukrainian cuisine was showcased by chefs Illia Vasiutynskyi, Bahar Agamalova, and Oleksandra Zara. Despite logistical challenges, a partnership with METRO Ukraine and METRO France enabled guests to be impressed with unique flavors.
Wine tasting was provided by SHABO with their new PrimaSeca line, as well as author’s wine by M. Boiko from a limited collection of Cahors.
Charity Purpose
A charity auction was held during the festival, with all proceeds going toward the purchase of ambulances for the Armed Forces of Ukraine. The event was organized by the NGO “Kinospilka”.
“Today, it is important for Ukraine to be heard on the world’s most influential platforms. We do this through the language of culture — a language everyone understands,” said event organizer Olha Husieva.
The festival gathered international guests — from Cannes City Hall representatives and diplomats to global film industry stars.
The event was organized by the FashionTV in Ukraine team with the support of Cannes City Hall and informational backing from the Ministry of Culture and Strategic Communications of Ukraine.
This evening became possible thanks to our sincere and powerful partners:
General Partner – Vodafone Ukraine
Official partners:
– MХП – for supporting Ukrainian culture
– Varus – for creating a welcoming atmosphere
– Ready&Go – for VIP transfers of the artists
– METRO Ukraine – for supporting the gastro-dinner