FASHION  |  

Artist Ganna Bogdan Channels Cool Winter Blues In AG

An artist’s take on modern utility.

Written by Brynn Wallner
Photographs by Keith Oshiro

There’s something profoundly energizing about the transition from autumn to winter, the drop in temperature inspiring a sense of focus rarely found in the happy lethargy of summer. Artist Ganna Bogdan, however, seems to carry that vigor within her no matter the season, matching the rhythm of AG’s fall collection. Defined by moody tones and a sophisticated sense of utility, a new life is breathed into wardrobe staples designed to be layered (and to withstand an entire night of dancing under the city lights). Perfect for Bogdan, then, whose ideal evening doesn’t stop until the sun rises.

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When asked about what an “everyday Ganna outfit” would look like, Bogdan herself had a hard time answering, unable to box the entirety of her look into a singular aesthetic. Currently living in Los Angeles but originally from Ukraine, Bogdan is her own version of the modern city girl, drawing as much inspiration from the sunny ‘70s as she does Eastern European rave culture. Here, she’s serving utilitarian workwear with a modern edge, while doubling down on vintage-laced denim — a masterclass on how to pull off the Texas Tuxedo. Travel then from Austin to Kyiv with a pair of oversized trousers that would fit in at any underground club.

Looks aside, Ganna’s occupation transcends any one label: she’s an artist, but also a model, filmmaker, and — get ready for it — a former professional figure skater. Growing up in Ukraine, skating played a major role in her life, punctuated by the expressive sense of style picked up from her family. You can learn all about that when her first documentary drops. With so much personality packed into one individual, it feels only right to dress her in a collection just as versatile as she is.

Describe your personal style. What does an everyday Ganna outfit look like?

It depends on my mood. I have a lot of different personalities within me, so every morning, I ask myself how I feel. Sometimes it’s tomboy streetwear girl, ‘70s girl, chic European, or raver. But each outfit always has an athletic feel to it because I am in love with mixing sport uniforms with my everyday looks.

Has your upbringing impacted your style today? How has your fashion sense evolved since moving to LA?

My family is a big fashion inspiration. My sister is a Ukrainian designer and my mum had a few clothing stores when I was growing up, so they both taught me early on about style and how to express myself. I also come from the Ukrainian rave underground scene, so you see a lot of those looks mixed together within me. Moving to LA helped me to expand my style. There are a lot of cool young designers here and a great variety of vintage. I’ve learned a lot about streetwear and sneaker culture.

How does it feel to be dressing up again and feeling the vibrancy of the city after such a long lull?

I never stopped dressing up. During lockdown, I loved to put on an outfit to paint or rollerblade around my area. I loved dressing up even when the whole world shut down. But it feels good to finally take a good outfit out for a dinner or concert.

What about the colder months excites you? Do you still skate often?

I love early fall and cold winters. I love the idea of wearing a skirt with some big boots and a baggy jacket. I have so much winter clothing even though I live in LA. I still skate every day and my rink usually gets very cold, so I need some good layers. I love skiing at Big Bear every winter, where I finally have an opportunity to wear all my jackets and hats.

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Do you wear a lot of denim?

I love denim. I own probably 50 different pairs of jeans. I have a special space for them in my closet. Denim is the easiest clothing to mix with other items in my wardrobe. A good pair of jeans will make you feel cozy and cool at the same time, anywhere you go.

What’s your upcoming documentary about?

I am working on a documentary about my return to professional sport. I decided to do this experiment on myself two years ago when I was dealing with depression. I felt like I had to have a goal in my life that I could control. I wanted to see if I could make it to an international competition – hopefully, the Olympics, one day – representing Ukraine in figure skating. I would be the oldest competing female athlete. I hope my journey inspires people to never give up on their dreams and to break age stereotypes for women in professional sports.

How do you find a sense of escape within the high energy of city life?

My escape is figure skating. Every time I feel like I need a break, I wake up at 5 a.m., drive to my rink, and skate alone, listening to music. There is no one around and the ice rink makes me feel free. It’s like I teleport to another dimension from busy LA life.

Where would you go in these AG looks if you could go anywhere?

I would go to a concert, dance all night, and then drive to the beach and watch the sunrise.

Art direction by Diana Weisman; wardrobe styling by Karolyn Pho; hair by Ryan Richman; makeup by Kristin Hilton; branded fashion director: Jenna Wexler; branded fashion editor: Kate Marin; talent booking: Sheena Rao; production: Kat Fry.