Known for its high-octane glamour, crystallised cuts, and glittering paillettes, Santa Brands founder Yana Stanislavska has undisputedly achieved her goal of leaving a mark on the fashion scene. Now, the Ukrainian designer is ready to conquer the world.
Scroll down to read our interview with Santa Brands’ founder Yana Stanislavska…
Cosmo ME: Why did you decide to start SANTA BRANDS?
Yana Stanislavska: It wasn’t totally on a whim, but there was a certain degree of spontaneity. Before SANTA BRANDS I had a career as a lawyer, which was fulfilling and exciting but didn’t leave much room for creativity. This artistic energy within me needed to be addressed, so one day I just knew that it was it! I needed to start anew in an industry that always seemed to be magic to me.
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C: Tell us the story behind the name?
YS: I’ve named the brand after my daughter, Santa – my greatest source of motivation and energy. I wanted to create something that would make her believe it’s always a great idea to follow your dreams. Setting an example of a woman in business for her is something that makes me work harder and aim for the biggest prizes.
C: The brand has truly taken over the internet, with the biggest celebrities and influencers across the world wearing your pieces. Did you ever anticipate this level of success?
Santa Brands’ Neon Lime Top, Dhs1571
YS: It’s hard to anticipate such things, but I indeed dreamed of it. SANTA BRANDS was created to share a very specific kind of energy – fierce, confident, quirky and sexy. My designs are more of a mood-setter rather than ‘it’ pieces just for an on-trend look.
C: What was the first piece that went viral?
YS: The transparent crystal dresses were an undoubted success. I love all our designs and feel very happy about their success, but this was a breakthrough.
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C: You’re headquartered in Ukraine – how has the impact on the country over the last year affected your business?
YS: Logistics, supply and production processes indeed became harder to conduct, but we’re not scared of hardships. Such tragic circumstances are hard to live through, but we’re a brave and resourceful nation, so the work was restored as soon as possible. Business owners understand that we’re responsible for our workers, their salaries and taxes that help our country, so wallowing in self pity and doing nothing wasn’t really an option. I feel a responsibility to use my platform and raise awareness for my country right now. In the first days of war, our glamorous, easy-going and atmospheric Instagram turned into a wartime chronicle. We shared stories, ways to help, and documentations of the absolute atrocities russian army makes Ukrainians face. I am a citizen of Ukraine and so are my colleagues – and it’s our duty to do everything we can to make this horror stop.
Santa Brands’ Purple One Sleeve Dress, Dhs4069
C: SANTA BRANDS recently launched in the UAE on Ounass. Why do you think women in the Middle East love your brand?
YS: Because they’re known for their glamorous style and aesthetically beautiful taste.
C: Where do you hope to see SANTA BRANDS in the next five years?
YS: On top of the world and in the most exquisite wardrobes!