The Secrets of Russian Trunks
A Guide to the Capital’s Finest Folk Art Treasures
For those hoping to bring home a beautiful souvenir, Moscow offers a wealth of choices. Modern interior items, tableware, clothing, and cosmetics can be found in the Made in Moscow pavilions, while those seeking something more traditional can turn their attention to folk crafts. Discover Moscow will guide you on what to buy and where.
Zhostovo
Striking trays with vibrant, hand-painted flowers on a glossy black background make for a foolproof souvenir from Russia — perfect as a gift for a mother, sister, or friend. Each Zhostovo tray is made from metal, shaped by hand, and then painted in layers of bright oil colours, giving it depth and shine. Every piece is imbued with the inspiration of master folk artists, who carefully preserve exceptional centuries-old techniques. Luxury, authenticity, and sensuality — that’s the unique Zhostovo bouquet, which leaves an impression on everyone. Each forged tray produced at the Zhostovo Decorative Painting Factory is assigned a special number. Its quality is confirmed by a certificate.
Address: Pyatnitskaya Street, 5с1
Orenshal
The Orenburg downy shawl is a true cultural phenomenon, symbolising a special kind of Russian cosiness and the ability to keep warm during the frosty winter. These shawls are also an emblem of tenderness and elegance. The craftswomen of Orenburg have gained worldwide fame through their art. These lightweight yet incredibly warm shawls are in huge demand not only among women in Russia but also among visitors from all over the world. Today’s artisans make them in such a way that they complement any coat, fur, or puffer jacket perfectly. A tip: once you’ve bought your shawl, have an impromptu photo session on the streets of Moscow! Brand stores can be found in the Okhotny Ryad, Europeiskiy, Afimall City, Aviapark, and Oceania shopping malls.
Address: Manezhnaya Square, 1с2, floor 2
Rostov Finift
There are many souvenirs made from Rostov finift — a traditional Russian craft of hand-painted enamel applied to metal, typically copper, and fired at high temperatures — but most tourists, especially women, are drawn to the jewellery. Elegant earrings, brooches, and pendants are sure to please lovers of both fine and costume jewellery. While a large part of the assortment might seem a tad vintage (often floral patterns on a light background), you can also find stylish, modern pieces. Beyond jewellery, the shop also features exquisite icons and silverware adorned with finift — perfect for those seeking sacred art or elegant tableware with a touch of traditional craftsmanship.
Address: Pokrovka Street, 4с1, floor 1
Gzhel
The iconic combination of blue and white might remind seasoned travellers of Portuguese azulejos or the Greek island of Santorini, but Russian Gzhel is something entirely its own. Gzhel is a traditional style of ceramics, where white porcelain is hand-painted with cobalt-blue floral and decorative patterns, then fired at high temperatures to fix the design. The Gzhel Porcelain Factory traces its history back to 1818, and today it carefully preserves its traditions while also keeping up with modern trends. Here you can choose not only tableware but also Christmas ornaments, accessories, or textiles featuring classic Gzhel patterns.
Address: Pyatnitskaya Street, 10с1
Krestetskaya Strochka
This embroidery, with its distinctive openwork pattern, is created by carefully cutting and stitching threads to form delicate geometric designs. It originated in the town of Kresttsy in the Novgorod region and has become one of Russia’s popular and recognisable folk crafts. Tourists happily take home tablecloths and napkins, as well as designer clothing featuring Krestetskaya strochka. These pieces combine traditional handwork with modern design and can add a refined decorative touch to any home or wardrobe.
Address: Okhotny Ryad Street, 2, floor 2
Khokhloma
Khokhloma is one of Russia’s most recognisable artistic folk crafts, originating from the Nizhny Novgorod region, with a history spanning several hundred years. Alena Akhmadullina is a popular contemporary designer who actively incorporates folk motifs, including Khokhloma painting, into her work. The brand’s collection features bone china, furniture, home textiles, clothing, accessories, and jewellery. There are some truly unique items, like denim clothing adorned with Khokhloma-inspired patterns. The flagship store is located in GUM.
Address: Red Square, 3, floor 1
Imperial Porcelain
Kuznetsov porcelain was widely known in Russia during Imperial times, when it supplied the royal court. Today, this tradition continues under the Imperial Porcelain Factory. The original historic signboard on the façade of the main store on Myasnitskaya Street has recently been restored. Here you can buy a truly luxurious souvenir from Moscow — a tea set for two, a full dinner service, or a beautiful vase for fruit or flowers.
Address: Myasnitskaya Street, 40А, floor 1
Yelets Lace
Lace might not be the most modern material, but it’s delicate and elegant! Yelets lace is made by hand, using fine threads woven into intricate patterns that resemble frost or spider webs. This traditional craft from the Lipetsk region will appeal to those who enjoy decorative details. You might choose a lace collar, cuffs, blouse, or perhaps even a sweatshirt or hoodie with lace inserts. It’s elegant and stylish. You can also choose something for the home — like a Yelets lace tablecloth or beautiful napkins. The flagship store in Moscow is located on the grounds of the Izmailovo Kremlin.
