THE MAY Studio: Czech Elegance Meets Modern Minimalism

Czech designer Štěpánka Pivcová is redefining contemporary fashion with her label, THE MAY Studio. Combining timeless couture with modern minimalism, her work celebrates craftsmanship, thoughtful production, and heritage-inspired design.

In the ever-evolving landscape of contemporary fashion, Czech designer Štěpánka Pivcová emerges as a distinctive voice of elegance and craftsmanship, articulating her vision through her label, THE MAY Studio. With a refined sensibility that marries timeless couture with modern minimalism, Pivcová’s work invites a deeper appreciation of material, form, and personal narrative. Together with Czech Strategic Technologies (CST), we are delighted to present her as a creative force whose work elevates and represents Czech excellence on the international stage.

Foto: David Surowiecki | THE MAY Studio

Commitment to the Exceptional

What distinguishes Pivcová’s work is her ability to draw on the heritage of Central European tailor-craft while remaining globally relevant. Based in Prague, she demonstrates how regional design DNA can inform a contemporary, international offering. Beyond the visual and material quality, Pivcová’s ethos also encompasses thoughtful production. THE MAY Studio emphasises limited-edition runs, premium materials and an attentiveness to craft that challenges mass production. The result? A collection that speaks to luxury “with a conscience”. Behind the polished presentation lies a dedication to the meaningful: fewer pieces produced, more intention invested.

Štěpánka’s coats also caught the attention of First Lady Eva Pavlová, for whom she designed and tailored a magenta suit and cape for the inauguration ceremony of Czech President Petr Pavel, or an elegant blue dress for the coronation of King Charles III.

Foto: Pražský hrad

A New Milestone: Designing the Ceremonial Collection for Sokol

Adding to her portfolio of heritage-inspired work, Štěpánka Pivcová created the new official ceremonial uniform collection for the traditional Czech organisation Sokol. Founded in 1862, Sokol has shaped generations through sport, culture, and civic responsibility, with its first uniforms designed by the celebrated Czech painter Josef Mánes.

Foto: Iyad Alshukairi | THE MAY Studio

In 2022—marking 200 years since the birth of Sokol co-founder Jindřich Fügner—the organisation launched a redesign of its ceremonial attire. Pivcová was commissioned to create a timeless collection honouring the movement’s values while embracing contemporary elegance. “This collection is about pride, identity, and unity,” says Pivcová. “It connects history with the present in a way that feels both respectful and fresh.”

The result is a modern yet heritage-steeped uniform that allows Sokol members to represent their movement with confidence and elegance.

THE MAY Studio
Website | Facebook | Instagram


Explore the CST Catalog
The digital version is available online: Publi.cz – Czech Strategic Technologies 2025