This week, a few of my good friends just returned from Paris from a few trade shows. Their biggest issue, besides the fact that they aren’t fluent or know much French, was good storage. Suitable storage is essential when traveling. It can make or break a trip. Not having a quick place or the right compartments to stuff necessities can really be frustrating. Coincidently, a few days after their return, I received word from another friend about the launch of luxury brand, KOZA (meaning “treasure” in Sanskrit). The collection shared a similar narrative to that of my friends. Much of the detailing was inspired by designer, Sinje Lesemann’s memorable trip to Rajasthan, India. During her trip, accessibility and storage was also a concern.
This collection is filled with anything from totes to hobos, clutches to beach cover-ups, handcrafted of the finest silk jacquards and embroidered linen, accented with lux Italian leather, and handmade brass details. What I really appreciate about each piece is Lesemann’s interpretation of Ikkat (traditional resist dyeing).
Normally, Ikkat printing is created by dying fabric with a resist (batiking). Lesemann’s collection uses embroidery to emulate the Ikkat technique. The KOZA collection is also bringing social awareness and responsibility to the Himalayas region by supporting the Panchachuli Women Weavers Program. This program facilitates economic and social independence for women in the structural development of the Kumaon region. The fabrics are beautiful, and impressive. KOZA is processed, dyed, spun, and woven entirely by hand. These bags will be available exclusively at hotel shops worldwide (including the Plaza, W, Dorchester, and Surf Lodge).
Images via KOZA
