Thread by @Independent

How Ukraine president Zelensky’s simple green T-shirt became iconic message of defiance | @AndrewBuncombe

independent.co.uk/news/world/eur…

There could barely be a simpler outfit.

A short-sleeved T-shirt in military olive green, sometimes bearing the symbol of Ukraine’s armed forces. Oftentimes it gets bunched up a little, as it digs into his biceps.

bit.ly/3CRIQMY

In the weeks that led up Russia’s invasion of his country, Zelensky usually wore a suit and tie when he addressed the nation.

Yet, in recent weeks, the besieged president has adopted a more basic garb, and in doing so presented a striking image to the people he addresses.

It was also criticised in unlikely terms by an economist and stockbroker, Peter Schiff, who tweeted: “I understand times are hard, but doesn’t the President of the #Ukraine own a suit?”

bit.ly/3CRIQMY

“He’s wearing clothes that connect him to the armed forces, without seeming militaristic, and send a message that he is focused on practical matters,” Rebecca Arnold, Senior Lecturer in History of Dress at the Courtauld Institute of Art in London, tells @Independent

Zelensky is not the first leader during war-time or conflict to send such a message with his clothes.

Cuba’s Fidel Castro only ever addressed his nation, or the United Nations, wearing his military fatigues with emblazoned epaulettes.

bit.ly/3CRIQMY

The plight of Ukraine and its president have also been noticed by the real world of fashion.

Earlier this month, Demna Gvasalia the Georgian-born creative director of Balenciaga dedicated the fashion house’s winter 2022-23 show to Ukraine and the millions of refugees fleeing it.

Read the full story here ⬇️
independent.co.uk/news/world/eur…