KZ_K Studio was founded in 2009 by Polish-born fashion designer, Karolina Zmarlak and her business and life partner, a trained architect, and entrepreneur, Jesse Keyes. This NYC-based, -designed and -developed collection is steeped in the tenets of modernism, and blends the values of custom architecture into fashion for a hands-on wardrobe made for the client, by the client alongside a team of expert designers.
Jesse Keyes’ father and grandfather were architects, and from a young age, observed the dialectic connection made with prospective clients. Communication takes time, understanding and a melding of design vision that adheres to the client’s distinct point of view.
Only after listening, asking questions and exploring aesthetics and purpose can a designer (architect or fashion designer) meaningfully be aware of a client’s practical and aesthetic long-term desires. In 2022, with these architecture-inspired tenets, as well as a continued focus on direct client relationships, aiming to create a personalized, engaging experience, KZ_K Studio opened the doors to its Great Jones Street Studio.
With multifunctionality, each look is uniquely developed in the studio for reversibility and convertibility. Each piece also utilizes technologically advanced fabrics, following a stylized minimalist aesthetic. By consistently adhering to this design discipline, KZ_K ensures that each piece can be worn in a multitude of ways, that the fabric quality is exceptional (Japanese fabrics and French leathers), and that the advanced construction (produced by their factory partners in NYC’s Garment District) of each garment will stand the test of time. As you might build and design your dream house with an architect, KZ_K works with its clients to build a versatile, modernist set of looks (and for some, a complete wardrobe) for a lifetime of use in action.
Located on a private 4th Floor, this studio was designed with precision and provides a place to connect. The library bar brims with architecture books (organized by collection inspiration) for discussion, and aperitifs to enliven. The studio’s “white beauty’ marble bar serves as a starter (where clients and the KZ_K team gather) before guests delve into a one-on-one consultation in the showroom, most often with Creative Director Karolina Zmarlak. Great Jones Street was the ideal home for KZ_K Studio.
This diverse, counter-culture block is filled with creativity and history, slow fashion, art and culinary wonders. From art galleries such as Venus over Manhattan to exceptional restaurants, from Atla to Fish Cheeks, KZ_K clients may spend an engrossing afternoon and evening shopping, eating and soaking in the art. In line with their exceptional creator neighbors, KZ_K’s design ethos is unique.
