In a nutshell
Casually expensive clothing, with a cool-girl vibe (American Womenswear Designer of the Year 2022, the brand has a direct confidence that is mirrored in the robust, stark yet luxurious flagship store.
In their words
"Stepping from the now into the next, Resort 2024 proposes a wardrobe of instinct. The collection is guided by gut feelings, finely honed - a shared sense of how each piece fits into the life of the New York woman. Experience is paramount."
Brand Background
Founded in 2016 by Catherine Holstein, Khaite has quickly become a force in women's fashion. The brand was born out of Holstein's frustration as a shopper, aiming to provide a one-stop solution for chic women seeking luxury, practicality, and comfort. Khaite's success is attributed to its focus on product quality, consistency, and customer-centricity. The brand has gained recognition for its core assortment of denim, accessories, and knits, with jeans retailing for just under $500 serving as a key entry point for new customers. In 2023, Holstein was awarded the CFDA Womenswear Designer of the Year accolade, and the brand secured investment from US growth equity firm Stripes. While specific financial data for 2024 is not available, Khaite aimed to increase sales by 30 percent in the previous year. The brand continues to expand its retail presence across the US and worldwide, solidifying its position as a notable global fashion brand.
Visit Field notes
We are used to brutalist, minimalist stores by now, but this goes further, with dark steel, poured concrete and the aesthetic of "Dune" the movies. Amidst the darkness an indoor tree provides a focus under a skylight, while the clothes are displayed imperiously like decommissioned Storm Trooper outfits in a transport ship. The warm welcome and exquisite clothes are energising. A must-visit store.
Checkout
- The famous indoor tree and accent lighting. Drawing a contrast and a link between the brutalist concrete space and the organic tree. It is the most obvious of the sculptural elements in the store
- The changing a rooms have lighting design by James Turrel and one is cool and the other a ‘power stance red’ to reflect different intentions and attitudes
- Furniture is from the designer’s own collection with allegedly one of the chairs having belonged to John Lennon (I can’t verify this claim). It feeds into the pop-art vibe.
- The front of the store has two clear circulation channels (the gauntlet of full height outfits and the return path of handbags and accessories) while the rear of the store is a more casual try-on and chatting area. Stairs lead to a by invitation VIP area for celebrity or discrete clientelling.
- Stylish, accessible and knowledgeable staff are at the top end of Soho/Luxury standards.
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