Upon receiving an intriguing press release about up-and-coming Vancouver label Mateelda, I could not wait to learn more about Maryna Hrychana, the designer behind the gorgeous collection. I was not disappointed. In fact, the more Maryna and I corresponded, the more I realised we have this major thing in common: the belief that you can never be overdressed. With every question it became clearer to me that Maryna has valued style and beauty all her life. As someone who is frequently asked “You are wearing that? We’re just going for coffee?!” I completely understand Maryna’s desire to continually showcase her personal style, not only in how she presents herself, but in how she creates her collections.
The Vancouver-based designer draws inspiration from her surroundings in order to create stunning clothing and custom made jewellery sure to make everyone in the presence of her designs feel gorgeous. Maryna’s personalized collections incorporate chic femininity alongside clean lines with a classic look, simultaneously showcasing inspiration from her Eastern European upbringing and Vancouver’s modern style.
Sad Mag: How did Mateelda come to be?
Maryna Hrychana: Mateelda was a long-time dream. Growing up in Eastern Europe I realized how much effort most women put into looking fashionable every day. An imprint of my mother walking up the stairs in her high heels will always stay in my mind. After moving to Vancouver, I had an opportunity to attend a fashion show where someone randomly approached me with a question: “Are you a designer? We love your outfit!!” This question led me to a final decision with my career choice—to go into the fashion industry instead of the medical field. And that’s where it all began! I made a promise to myself to follow my passion towards beauty and aesthetics, and through my designs, to help people feel beautiful.
SM: What is the meaning behind the name of your label, Mateelda?
MH: I have been asked so many times how I came up with not just the name for the company, but also the logo. When starting the brand I wanted the company name to reflect and define exactly what the brand is about—classy and strong lines with unique details. The meaning of the old English name “Matilda” is “might, strength.” Changing the spelling from “I” into “EE” added unique detail, together with 3 classic colours. It just made perfect sense.
SM: What is your favorite piece in the current collection?
MH: The beautiful, chic, classy and tailored white cotton dress “Aliana.” It has structured lines that highlight a feminine body shape with a small detail of black French lace that adds just enough of a twist to make it look modern.
SM: What was your biggest influence/inspiration when designing the collection?
MH: Designing each collection the foundation of my inspiration comes from architecture, as I always have been fascinated by structure, lines, proportions, and of course, textures. Final accents in each collection are influenced by various cultures, mythology and the grace of body movement.
SM: How much is the collection a reflection of your personal style?
MH: It is funny, in the beginning one of my close friends commented that I design my own perfect wardrobe. I was always drawn to the elegant lines of the 50’s and the fun colours/patterns of the 60’s. In design, especially in fashion, there is a very fine line between your personal taste (as a designer) and the client’s needs and preference. Yet saying that, your personal style is the “soul” and definition of your brand, which you carry throughout each collection. That is what makes your brand different from others and appealing to your clients.
SM: How would you describe your personal style?
MH: As you constantly grow as a person, you change and so does your lifestyle and personal style. I love versatility and trying to break down the collection to mix and match it. With such a busy world these days you want to have functional outfit that will take you through the day looking professional and comfortable, but can still gravitate to a classy dressed up look: tailored dresses, skirts, but also a pair of jeans paired with high heels.
SM: Are you inspired by any other designers, or collections?
MH: Most inspiration comes from the people around me, life itself, and the journey of your work as you go. But I do admire designers such as Alexander McQueen. And of course Tom Ford is one of the most inspirational artists ever, in every field he works in.
SM: How was Eco Fashion Week?
MH: Participating in Eco Fashion Week was an amazing experience, as I met new colleagues and like-minded people! It is great to be a part of community where you can find beautiful art pieces designed with awareness towards the environment around us.
SM: Where would you like to see Mateelda five or ten years down the road?
MH: I’m a big believer that men and women are using fashion as a tool to express themselves to the world. I hope to see more people out on the street wearing Mateelda designs!
Mateelda designs are quickly spreading through Vancouver and being carried in boutiques such as Edward Chapman Woman on South Granville. Customized designs can also be ordered from www.mateelda.ca