Guest Feature: Ilona Gerasimov of Kozha Numbers
I cannot wait to get my hands on her new collection!!!
I am soooo excited to feature Ilona Gerasimov of Kozha Numbers today! Born in Ukraine and now based in Portland, the designer is about to drop her incredible new collection. Every piece is designed and handcrafted by Ilona herself, this blew me away! In our conversation, she shares the stories behind her creative process, the meaning behind the name “Kozha Numbers,” what’s inside her bag and the vintage treasures she loves. I highly suggest following Kozha Numbers on Instagram for endless inspiration!
Tell us more about where you are from and where you are currently residing. How have they both inspired you and your brand Kozha Numbers over the years?
I was born in Odessa, Ukraine, before moving to Portland, Oregon in the ’90s at just 9 months old. Growing up in Portland had a profound impact on my creative identity. The city’s motto, “Keep Portland Weird,” shaped my perspective early on and gave me the freedom to explore ideas that didn’t need to fit into a mold. That open-minded, offbeat energy has been a constant source of inspiration—for me personally and for Kozha Numbers.
What was your biggest inspiration when developing Kozha Numbers and what inspired the name?
One of my biggest inspirations when developing Kozha Numbers was my father. He was a shoe designer and maker back in Ukraine, and I spent much of my childhood in his shop. That experience sparked my love for materials and craftsmanship. The word “Kozha” means “leather” in my native language—it’s a nod to my roots and to him. As for “Numbers,” I’ve always felt a deep, almost intuitive connection to them. I’ve had lucky numbers for as long as I can remember—like 25, which always seems to show up right before something transformative happens. For me, numbers carry symbolism. Together, Kozha Numbers reflects both where I come from and the things that continue to guide me creatively.
Please tell us more about your next drop and when we will be able to get our hands on your new pieces!
I’m thrilled to announce that the new collection will be available this month. After 10 years in bag design, this collection feels especially meaningful to me. What many people don’t know is that I personally design and handcraft every single piece. This collection truly feels like an extension of myself more than ever before.
Do you have a favorite Kozha Numbers bag, either the one that means the most to you or the one you use most frequently?
My favorite bag is actually my newest design, Lucky 25. I carry it daily because it gracefully marries function and form—offering spacious practicality while maintaining a classic shape that moves effortlessly with me from day to night.
Let’s do a mini what’s in your bag. Any essentials or little treasures you always carry with you?
I always have my journal on me—it’s where I collect ideas and thoughts throughout the day, and I’d feel pretty lost without it. My headphones go everywhere with me, too, since music is a big part of how I escape and reset.
I’m into little things that make me feel good, so I always carry a face mist, hand lotion, and a mini incense from a French brand, Astier de Villatte—the scent helps me feel calm and grounded no matter where I am.
I’m extremely sentimental, so you’ll usually find trinkets and notes from lovers and friends tucked inside my bag as well.
How does Kozha Number’s unique design flow into your personal style? What are your favorite basics right now- favorite white tee, favorite jeans and favorite belt.
My daily uniform is extremely simple: a thin ribbed white cotton tank, vintage denim, and leather ballet flats. That said, I’m quite partial to belts, I’ve got quite the collection.
Any other favorite pieces (or brands) right now?
Honestly, my closet is filled with impractical vintage treasures I just can’t part with. Most are incredibly delicate or almost unbearable to wear because of their weight, but I love the materials—you just can’t find craftsmanship like this anymore.
Anything specific you are adding to your Spring/Summer wishlist?
I’m constantly drawn to new pieces that grab my attention—I just go with what speaks to me. For me, it’s all about those unexpected finds that make you stop and double-take.
In this newsletter, I share my latest screenshots and invite others to share theirs. What are some things you've recently screenshotted on your phone that you're excited to try or have been eyeing lately?
My phone is filled with screenshots. I’m constantly screenshotting—and then re-screenshotting my own screenshots when I scroll back through them. It’s usually a mix of places I want to travel to and vintage clothing that sparks inspiration.
Which artists are you currently inspired by? Is there a particular piece of art in your home or one you’re hoping to add to your collection?
I’m really inspired by my dear friend Maja Dlugolecki. Her work has this incredible way of expressing emotion through color, texture, and movement. There’s a depth and feeling in her pieces that always sparks something in me creatively.
What are you currently reading? Or a book you would recommend to your friends.
I just finished The Creative Act: A Way of Being by Rick Rubin. It’s a quiet, thoughtful guide that reminds you creativity isn’t about control or perfection, but about being open and letting ideas flow.
Current favourite snacks + supplements in the fridge or pantry?
I’m obsessed with the BjornQorn popcorn, its so simple yet absolutely delicious.
A huge thank you to Ilona! You can follow her on Instagram here and Kozha Numbers here! Watch for her amazing new collection dropping this month, I am so excited!
Just followed her! So good <3 ty!!