NENKO: Where Fashion Meets Memory and Meaning

In a world drowning in discarded clothes, NENKO chooses a different path — one of care, respect, and revival. This brand isn’t just about recycling; it’s about giving forgotten pieces a second life, restoring their meaning and making them timeless again.

The founder, a Ukrainian designer now based in the UK, puts it simply: “Our mission is not just to recycle but to restore meaning.” At the heart of NENKO are rare vintage fabrics and blazers, some 20 to 30 years old, from old theatres, ateliers, and tailors — many of which aren’t made anymore. They don’t just remake these pieces; they honor the past while shaping a more conscious future of fashion.

NENKO’s core values speak volumes: respect for history (“Every fabric has a story”), sustainability (“We don’t chase trends — we preserve beauty”), quiet elegance, and true craftsmanship. The brand believes in one powerful, meaningful piece over ten forgettable ones. It’s a quiet rebellion against mass production and fast fashion.

The materials are as special as the philosophy. Think classic Scottish tweed, Parisian satin, Italian silk ties, and delicate lace from Provence. Vintage buttons, brooches, and even upcycled men’s shirts turned into accessories give every item a unique character. As the founder explains, “We don’t redesign — we reimagine.”

NENKO’s commitment to sustainability goes beyond materials. Roses made from donated shirts, fabric packaging that’s fully reusable, and a plan for certification to prove their claims — all show a serious dedication to eco-conscious growth. Customers can even bring in their own shirts to transform into wearable art, closing the loop on waste. “We work closely with one of the world’s top sustainable fashion consultants to ensure our growth is truly ecological,” the founder says.

NENKO’s Founder

Her story is inseparable from the brand’s soul. Forced to leave everything behind because of war, she lost not just possessions but a sense of normalcy. That experience reshaped her perspective on consumption and memory. “I realised how disposable our habits have become. I wanted to build something that resists forgetting — rooted in intention, heritage, and sustainability.” Now, while finishing her degree in Business & Law, she’s building NENKO as a statement of care, memory, and resistance — not just to waste, but to war and oblivion.

Working with recycled vintage pieces isn’t easy. Scarcity makes mass production impossible. Defects are challenges, not flaws — requiring creative solutions. Sourcing is unpredictable, like a treasure hunt. And every garment demands time, vision, and skilled hands. But that’s exactly what makes each item priceless. “No shortcuts, no fakes,” she insists.

Right now, the collection includes upcycled vintage blazers, one-of-a-kind shirt roses that can be worn as brooches or bag charms, and obi belts crafted from Italian silk. Each piece tells its own story, handcrafted with love and intention.

You can explore and shop the current collection on the official NENKO website.

A photo of the assortment — those timeless blazers and poetic accessories — speaks louder than any description.

Looking ahead, NENKO plans to expand its collection and reach more conscious consumers, join major design events in London, and grow a team of creatives. The long-term dream? Launch a London pop-up, get featured in Vogue, and build a fully closed-loop system where every item is reused or reborn. “We want to make a brand that creates a sustainable story, not just sells clothes.”

Expansion plans also include vintage fabric accessories — think socks, sachets, scarves, and bags collaborations with creators and influencers, and growing shipping to the EU and US. Eventually, a private showroom by invitation only may open for exclusive fittings.

NENKO’s ideal customer? She’s not flashy. She doesn’t need logos. She wears vintage with pearls, drinks wine in jazz clubs, and never feels the need to explain herself. She values quality over hype, meaning over trend. “She’s an old soul with modern taste — and she never forgets where she came from.”

You can follow more of NENKO’s story, creative process, and behind-the-scenes moments on Instagram.

In a world obsessed with fleeting trends, NENKO is a quiet, powerful voice for lasting value, memory, and mindful fashion.