Zelenskyy’s New Suit Symbolizes Shift in Diplomatic Style

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy debuted a new suit during his visit to the United States, marking a notable shift in his diplomatic attire. The outfit, featuring a back vent reminiscent of civilian clothing, stands in contrast to the military-style outfits Zelenskyy has worn throughout the ongoing conflict with Russia. This change aims to project a message of hope for peace, according to designer Anisimov, who worked on the suit. “We think that if we add something subtle to this image, something from civilian clothing to his uniform, then it will be like a lucky charm,” Anisimov told Reuters.

The suit made a significant impression during a recent meeting with Donald Trump at the White House. Trump complimented Zelenskyy on his attire, a stark difference from their previous encounter in February where Zelenskyy faced criticism for his military-style clothing. The Ukrainian president remarked on the disconnect he felt during that meeting: “There was a slight sense of despair because they do not understand how we breathe, how we live.”

This diplomatic wardrobe adjustment reflects a broader strategy. Since Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, Zelenskyy has opted for military-inspired clothing to express solidarity with Ukrainian troops. “In this moment, internally, we all changed, everything changed, life changed,” he stated in a recent interview, emphasizing the profound impact of the war on personal and national identity.

The black suit, intended for Ukrainian Independence Day on August 24, 2022, was completed just days before Zelenskyy’s trip to the US. Anisimov recalled receiving an urgent request from the Ukrainian administration the day before the trip, necessitating quick alterations to ensure the president looked dignified.

This is not the first time Anisimov has played a role in shaping Zelenskyy’s public image. In the early 2000s, Zelenskyy and his comedy team, Kvartal 95, transitioned from casual attire to a more polished look, gradually adopting suits to establish their identities on Ukrainian television.

Anisimov noted that he had not spoken to Zelenskyy for over five years until a mutual acquaintance reconnected them in January. The idea to create a capsule collection for the president emerged from that conversation, with military uniforms serving as the inspiration. “I can’t say that we sewed a suit specifically for the NATO summit or for an important conversation with Trump and European leaders. The suit is just a suit,” Anisimov remarked. However, he acknowledged that Zelenskyy now has several similar jackets with minor variations.

Zelenskyy’s new suit has already made appearances at significant events, including the funeral of Pope Francis in April and the NATO Summit in June. These occasions have further reinforced the ties between the US and Ukraine, particularly after the tensions that surfaced during the earlier meeting with Trump.

As Zelenskyy continues to navigate the complex landscape of international diplomacy, his evolving style serves as a symbol of resilience and adaptability in the face of unprecedented challenges.