March 8 is celebrated around the world as International Women’s Day, but in Armenia, it carries a special cultural significance. Armenian women are honored with flowers, chocolates, and appreciation for the many roles they play in family, community, and society.

At Armat, we believe one of the most meaningful ways to celebrate Armenian women is by supporting the businesses they build and lead. This March 8, we’re highlighting Armenian women-owned businesses we love. Whether you’re discovering a new brand or supporting a longtime favorite, each purchase is a way to celebrate and empower Armenian women everywhere.

Zip N’ Bear was founded by Evelyn Mardyan, an occupational therapist specializing in children’s development, and Amy Nazarian, a mother of two. Together, they set out to design sleepwear that prioritizes both comfort and sensory-friendly design for children.

Drawing from Evelyn’s professional experience working with children and Amy’s perspective as a parent, the founders created pajamas made from ultra-soft bamboo fabric, designed to be comfortable for children with sensory sensitivities.

The brand also centers around its lovable teddy bear mascot, Zippy, inspired by Amy’s own childhood teddy bear that she kept close growing up.

One of our favorite pieces is the Passionate Pomegranate Bundle, which includes buttery-soft bamboo pajamas, matching underwear, and Zippy the teddy bear. This is a perfect gift for little ones and a beautiful example of Armenian women creating products that bring comfort to families.

Next, we’re highlighting Sosé Hanneyan, founder of Sirov 374, a brand blending Armenian culture with modern streetwear.

Sosé designs apparel inspired by both historical and contemporary Armenian influences, transforming cultural symbolism into fashion-forward pieces. Her collections are proudly made in Armenia. Sirov 374 reflects a commitment not only to Armenian identity but also to supporting local production and craftsmanship.

One of our favorite pieces is the Lada x Ararat tee which pairs the nostalgia of the iconic Lada with the silhouette of Mount Ararat. Sirov 374 releases limited collections, and once items sell out, they typically aren’t restocked.

British-Armenian artist Lizzy Vartanian founded Armenian Embroidery to help preserve and share traditional Armenian needlework techniques with a new generation.

Lizzy first learned embroidery as a child from her Armenian mother and has since dedicated her work to exploring Armenian cultural heritage through textile art. Today she splits her time between London and Yerevan, teaching workshops, curating exhibitions, and creating projects that keep historic Armenian embroidery traditions alive.

One of our favorite pieces from her shop is the Ourfa Embroidery Kit, which introduces stitchers to embroidery patterns inspired by Ourfa (Urfa) in Western Armenia. Through Armenian Embroidery, Lizzy is helping ensure that centuries-old Armenian craft traditions continue to be practiced and passed down.

Founded by Armenian-American entrepreneur Kara Karina, Kara by Karina is a Los Angeles–based activewear brand inspired by movement, confidence, and self-expression. Karina, a professional dancer and instructor, created the brand after years spent in dance studios and performances, designing pieces that feel as good as they look.

Blending athleisure with modern street style, Kara by Karina creates versatile pieces that move effortlessly from workouts to everyday life. One of our favorites is the Wrap Top, a flattering, feminine staple perfect for layering or wearing on its own.

Designer Lauren Manoogian founded her namesake label to create thoughtful, minimal pieces that emphasize texture, craftsmanship, and natural materials. Based in Brooklyn, her brand began with knitwear and accessories and has since evolved into a full ready-to-wear collection known for its sculptural silhouettes and earthy palettes.

Lauren’s collections focus on slow fashion and artisanal production, often working with small mills and artisans to produce pieces made from natural fibers like alpaca and wool. One of our favorites is the Coto Cardigan that reflects the brand’s signature oversized silhouettes.

Armenian author Elin Asatourian recently released her debut children’s book, Stella’s Spectacular Shift, a heartfelt story that encourages young readers to embrace change with confidence and curiosity. The book follows Stella as she navigates the experience of realizing she needs glasses—turning what can feel like a scary change into something empowering and positive for children.

The story is brought to life through illustrations by artist Christy Orujian, whose artwork helps capture Stella’s journey and makes the story accessible for young readers. Together, Elin and Christy created a thoughtful children’s book that is a beautiful example of Armenian women using storytelling and art to inspire the next generation.

Founded by Ani, Embers & Thyme is a brand rooted in family, tradition, and the beauty of slow living. As Ani shares, “The story of Embers & Thyme begins with family—ours. I was born in Armenia, my husband in France, and together, we’ve built a life shaped by the traditions, craftsmanship, and slow living that defined our childhoods.”

Inspired by these values, the brand focuses on thoughtful kitchen goods and baking tools that encourage people to slow down and reconnect —like baking bread from scratch. One of our favorites is the Sourdough Gifting Box Set designed to make the experience of sourdough baking approachable.

Founded by Armenian hairstylist Lusine Ashikian, LuCeen was created from years of hands-on experience in the beauty industry. After more than 15 years working behind the salon chair, Lusine set out to create products that deliver professional-level hair care in a simple, everyday routine.

One of the brand’s standout products is the Hair & Body Oil designed to hydrate hair, add shine, protect against heat styling, and nourish skin all at once. The product reflects Lusine’s philosophy of clean beauty without compromise—products that are vegan, cruelty-free, and designed to support healthy hair and skin.

Armenian women have always played a powerful role in shaping our culture, communities, and creative industries. From designers and artists to authors and entrepreneurs, the women featured in this guide represent the incredible talent and dedication found across the Armenian diaspora.

This March 8, we celebrate their work—and encourage you to discover, support, and share Armenian women-owned businesses. Every purchase is more than just a product; it’s a way to uplift the women building, creating, and inspiring within our community.

Happy International Women’s Day from Armat.