ABOUT US

kin was founded on the belief that what we make is just as important as how we make it.

The designers, Nami & Miriam, met over 20 years ago at the Rhode Island School of Design in Providence, where they shared a studio space, as well as an approach to design and patternmaking.

Their individual experiences as designers span a wide spectrum, from Miriam’s work with John Galliano in Paris and Romeo Gigli in Milan, to Nami’s time at Geoffrey Beene and J.Crew in New York, Moschino in Milan, and Puma in Germany.  After working for many years in the industry, they each ran their own women’s wear labels.

A common commitment to design and sustainability now drives them to pursue a more progressive way of making clothing.

Making environmentally and socially ethical choices forms the foundation of the studio and affects all business decisions.

Whenever possible, kin sources with Fair Trade suppliers, including production with a Fair Trade certified manufacturer in India, and 100% certified organic cotton fabrics.  In comparison to conventionally grown cotton, organic cotton has a far lower environmental impact through the exclusion of pesticides, GM seeds, and chemical fertilizers.  Supporting organic cotton also helps maintain healthier conditions for workers at all stages of textile manufacturing, from farmers to weavers to dyers.

kin’s cotton fabrics are dyed using low impact, Global Organic Textiles Standard (GOTS) certified dyes.  All prints are designed to work with heritage block printing techniques, which supports artisanal rather than mass production, and uses vegetable dyes rather than chemical compounds.  Innovative and considered patternmaking is an important part of the design process with the aim of reducing fabric waste.

kin merges simplicity and inventive design with high quality workmanship and sustainable production practices.