Ladies in furs and stylish gentlemen: how Kyiv residents welcomed winter 120 years ago (photos).

Kiev has always captivated with its unique charm and special energy. However, the capital becomes particularly beautiful and even fairy-tale-like during the winter months when snow wraps it in a light white blanket.

Thanks to archival photographs from the last century, we can glimpse what Kiev's winters were like, how the streets appeared, how residents entertained themselves during the cold season, where they went, and what clothing they wore.

"Telegraph" has gathered vibrant photos for its readers depicting winter Kiev in the 1900s. These colored images capture the spirit of a bygone era and present us with a completely different capital.

What Winter Looked Like in Kiev in 1900

The residents of the capital eagerly awaited the arrival of winter, as the snow-covered Kiev always looked simply stunning. People prepared in advance for the cold — stocking up on firewood and provisions, buying clothing, and getting their winter "means of transportation" ready.

During severe frosts, wealthy residents could spend their time in the warmth of their homes, at clubs, or in restaurants, while officials would enjoy a drink "to warm up" at taverns.

However, the most difficult times were faced by the homeless, but fires were lit on the streets specifically for them, where people without a permanent residence could warm up a bit.

The youth of Kiev, dressed warmly, happily visited ice rinks and took strolls in the snowy parks of the capital.

People gathered in large groups, enjoyed themselves, played snowballs, and rejoiced in the snow like children.

Common winter pastimes for Kiev residents included ice skating, sledding, walking, and rides in horse-drawn sleighs equipped with special runners.

It is worth noting that during those times, Kiev experienced changeable weather, and particularly snowy or extraordinarily frosty winters were not very common. Nevertheless, preparations for winter were taken seriously, and winter clothing was purchased in advance.

According to memoirists from the second half of the 19th century, in winter "ladies wore large capes with very short sleeves, which only reached the elbows." This was compensated for with a warm muff. The fashion for such sleeve length and muff persisted in a slightly modified form into the 1910s.

Kiev's ladies at that time wore stylish hats, gloves, long dresses, and fur collars.

By the beginning of the 20th century, men's fashion in Kiev had also become very stylish — long coats had gone out of fashion, replaced by more democratic coats, often featuring astrakhan collars. Men also wore elegant hats.

Overall, winter in Kiev in the 1900s closely resembled the modern day, and the snow-covered streets of the capital looked simply wonderful. This is why the residents of Kiev delightedly sent their friends and acquaintances Christmas, New Year, and Epiphany greetings on postcards featuring views of Kiev's parks.

And every year, they eagerly awaited the arrival of the next Kiev winter!

Let us remind you that over 100 years ago camels roamed through the center of Kiev. These resilient mammals were used for transporting goods and were even included in ceremonial parades.

Previously, "Telegraph" reported on what Kiev looked like 113 years ago. At that time, street markets were an integral part of life in Kiev, bustling with trade. Fairs were always crowded, and vendors offered a variety of products — from clay dishes to Ukrainian cuisine.