Freak Go Home!

A Conversation with Ukrainian upcycling brand.

Upcycling has been around since the dawn of time. But the way people in Fashion have gone about it has changed. From Bottega Veneta using leather to make a denim-effect print on a standard print of jeans. Or fashion students at Parsons using whatever materials they find to make a garment. That’s exactly what the brand Freak Go Home a brand based both out of Ukraine and London does. Halyna, the founder, takes vintage t-shirts and sews them together and brings new life to them. So I DM’d Halyna over instagram to talk about the brand her inspiration, and how working and still being creative despite there being a war in her home country.

1) Introduce yourself! Who are you? Where are you from? Age? Pronouns?

Hello! I'm Halyna, originally from Kalush city in the west of Ukraine and currently residing in London/ Kyiv (Ukraine). I am 33 years old. My pronouns are she\her. Excited to connect and share more about myself!

2) Tell me about where you grew up? And growing up?

I grew up in Kalush. This was a small town where everyone knew each other. Frankly speaking, it strongly influenced my development, as society exerted significant pressure on how I should look to avoid negative comments. Despite this, I often rejected this template and tried to express myself, especially through clothing. I'll say that I owe this boldness to my mom, as from ages 3 to 6, I always heard words of admiration from her. To be truthful, adolescence and beyond lacked support, instead bringing criticism and more. However, looking back, I understand that these experiences shaped me into the person I am today.

3) Tell me about the name Freak go Home? Where did the name come from?

When it comes to the origin of the name, I would like to emphasize that it emerged when, as a teenager, I chose to wear unconventional clothing. My mother often said to me, "What are you wearing? You look like freak. Go home." However, looking back, I realized that I enjoyed standing out and looking different. These words became a confirmation of my boldness, evidence that I was unique. Over time, comments from people about my appearance had no influence on me whatsoever. On the contrary, any criticism turned out to be a kind of compliment for me. So, the words 'Freak Go Home' are more about being an individual, and each item in the brand is unique, not repeated.

4) What inspired you to start the brand?

This is what I've always wanted to do - create clothing that not only looks good but also brings pleasant emotions to people. After finding the name, I pondered over it for another two years. Then, I shared it with my former boss, who is one of the best stylists in Ukraine, Olga Slon (at that time, I worked as a stylist at the 1+1 TV channel). She thought it was cool, and I felt inspired to take action. I produced the first batch of 10 sweaters but then took a break due to a heavy workload in my main job.

After the full-scale invasion of Ukraine, I resumed my brand, using the proceeds to fund the army and contribute to the defense of my country as much as I could. Seeing the positive response from people, I continued with it. For all of this, I am grateful only to my clients.

5) Where do you work from?

All of our production is located in Ukraine, in Kyiv, so I often visit the office! Additionally, when I am in London, I handle everything online.

6) Do you work alone, or do you have a team behind you?

Everything related to production is handled by my contractors. My husband, who is in Ukraine, assists in all other processes. Taking this moment, I want to express my gratitude and say, My dear, I know you will be reading this. I highly appreciate your help.

7) Where do you source your materials from?

I source my materials from second-hand stores in London and Ukraine, as well as charity shops and apps like Vinted or the Ukrainian app SAFa. There are no specific places; I can find and purchase vintage or used clothing anywhere. This process demands considerable diligence, as we carefully curate each item.

8) How long does it take you to make a garment?

I can't say for sure, but it definitely takes significantly more time compared to the mass production of new clothing. This process is extensive, starting from the search for clothing, designing how it should be paired, and ending with photography; every item must have a photo.

9) Where do you see the brand 5 years from now?

Unfortunately, with the onset of the full-scale invasion, I had to halt my future plans as they were abruptly disrupted. Life took a 180-degree turn. Regarding the future of the brand, it's hard to say for now, but if I contemplate it, I would aspire to develop a large-scale production and sell products on major platforms. The more recycled clothing, the better ;-)

10) What is your favorite design that you have made?

The favorite design from the latest piece is an unconventional-cut cardigan. It's so “freak”.

11) What celebrity do you want to see wearing the brand?

Certainly, Chloe Sevigny and Taylor Russell."