We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Yulia Semchenko. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Yulia below.

Yulia, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. Can you take us back in time to the first dollar you earned as a creative – how did it happen? What’s the story?

My First Sale Wasn’t About the Money

My first sale was far from a success in the traditional sense — but I’ll never forget it.

When I decided to start my own business, I sewed my first batch of jackets, bought expensive silk fabric, and made a few scarves. Full of hope and excitement, I signed up for my first craft fair.

It was the end of November — cold, snowy, and windy. Not exactly ideal conditions for selling outdoors. I had invested a lot: I bought a tent, a table, packaging materials, and printed business cards. Early in the morning, I drove to a nearby town, set up my booth in the freezing cold, and laid out my products.

That day, I only sold three scarves. I spent more than I earned. But I met a woman — a chemist — who was selling handmade soap at the booth next to mine. We started talking, became friends, began helping each other at markets, and our friendship has only grown stronger since.

That day, I realized something: not every market is about sales. Sometimes, you go to find your people. Sometimes, to make yourself known. And sometimes, just to take a brave step forward.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

My name is Yulia, and I’m the founder of Yul d’Uz, a clothing line rooted in the rich textile traditions of Uzbekistan and inspired by my personal journey across the globe.

I was born and raised in Samarkand, one of the oldest and most beautiful cities in Central Asia. It’s a city of mosaics, music, poetry, and resilience — and that spirit has stayed with me through every chapter of my life. As a child I attended art school and school of music. I play piano and paint in my free time ,
Though I didn’t leave Samarkand until the age of 25, I’ve since lived and worked in New York, Baku, Berlin, Moscow, Kyiv and now Washington, D.C., meeting artists and creatives from all walks of life and collecting stories, skills, and inspirations along the way.

I began by designing jackets for myself, friends, and family using handwoven Uzbek ikat fabrics — bold, vibrant textiles made using a centuries-old dyeing technique. The response was immediate and heartfelt. People were drawn to the color, texture, and energy of the fabric — and more than that, they were curious. They wanted to know where it came from, who made it, and what it meant.

That’s when I realized that my garments were more than clothing — they were living stories, woven with memory, heritage, and pride.

In 2019, I officially launched my brand, Yul d’Uz, which translates from Uzbek as “Star ” but it also Yulia from Uzbekistan. I design jackets, coats, robes, scarves, and vests — all made from traditional ikat textiles sourced directly from artisans in Uzbekistan. Each piece is one of a kind, combining Central Asian craftsmanship with modern, wearable silhouettes. Every garment I create is a tribute to the beauty of my homeland and the hands that keep its traditions alive.

What sets me apart is not just the fabric, but the storytelling. My work isn’t about fast fashion — it’s about slow, meaningful design that honors both past and present. I want my customers to feel radiant and rooted at the same time — to wear something beautiful that also carries history, culture, and soul.

I’m most proud of the way my designs connect people — across cultures, generations, and continents. Whether it’s a jacket worn at a gallery opening in D.C. or a scarf gifted across oceans, I know that my pieces are starting conversations and carrying the legacy of Uzbek artisans into new spaces.

To those who follow or are just discovering my work, I want you to know: Yul d’Uz is about more than clothes. It’s about identity, artistry, and joy — and about shining like a star, wherever your journey takes you.

What do you think is the goal or mission that drives your creative journey?

Through my work, I aim to tell the world about Uzbekistan — my homeland, its rich history, vibrant traditions, and artistic soul. I want to share the beauty of our culture, the depth of our craftsmanship, and the warmth of our spirit.

Each garment I create is more than just a fashion piece — it’s a bridge between cultures, a conversation starter, and a celebration of color, identity, and joy. My goal is to bring color and happiness into people’s lives, to offer them something unusual and meaningful — something that stands out from the crowd.

I believe clothing has the power to transform how we feel. That’s why I design pieces that give people confidence, express individuality, and make them feel special. Whether it’s the bold patterns of handwoven ikat, the elegant silhouette of a jacket, or the story behind a robe — I want my clients to feel not just beautiful, but empowered and seen.

At the heart of Yul d’Uz is the desire to uplift, connect, and inspire. I want those who wear my pieces to feel proud of where they come from — or curious about where these pieces come from. To wear something that sparks joy, reflects meaning, and reminds them that heritage and beauty go hand in hand.

That is the mission behind every stitch, every fabric, every story I share.

Since 2023 you can now find my creations at the ABRO Collective – boutique at Union Station in the heart of Washington DC . Everyone is welcome to visit — try things on, feel the texture with your own hands, and experience the magic of ikat in person. I’ll be happy to meet you, share more about the materials, and tell the story behind each piece. Our shop is open every day .

I also collaborate with a travel agency that organizes unforgettable journeys to Central Asia and the Caucasus. If visiting Uzbekistan has been your dream — now is the time!
Ask me how to make your dream come true!

What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative in your experience?

For me, the most rewarding aspect of being an artist is the ability to create something new and beautiful — and to express myself through that creation.

I’ve always had the desire to make things with my hands. Ever since childhood, I loved to draw, sculpt people out of clay — I even made clay portraits of my parents’ friends. I used to sew toys and give them as gifts to my family. Later, I attended art school, wove tapestries, and took a course in interior design. I love photography and took classes from famous photographer in Baku when I lived there. I love street photography and often take pictures myself. All of these experiences eventually led me to what I do today.

Being an artist is not just a profession — it’s a way of living. It means observing the world through a creative lens, finding inspiration in small details, and translating inner emotions into something tangible and meaningful.

I also truly love participating in fairs and exhibitions — and even more so, visiting them as a guest. I find great joy in meeting other artists. There are so many incredibly talented people around, true masters of their craft. This year I was choosen to participate in ACC fair in Baltimore. I also got an award as the fiber artist. It was a big honor for me, I’m constantly amazed by the imagination and inventiveness of people. It inspires me and reminds me why I chose this path.

All my childhood and teenage passions have led me to where I am now — and I’m grateful every day to be able to do what I love and share it with others.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.etsy.com/shop/YULdUzUSA
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yul_d_uz_jackets/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/YuldUzUSA/
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/yulya-semchenko-20700a240/

Image Credits

Yulia Semchenko , Arsen Arzumanian , Alex Gosing