Kaftko
Manifest Creative, an LGBTQ+ owned creative firm, finds tremendous joy in collaborating with brands that resonate with our shared values. When the opportunity arose to work with KAFTKO, a fashion-forward and inclusive brand that celebrates fluidity, gender-neutrality, size inclusivity, and age appropriateness, we knew it was a perfect match, especially considering their LGBTQ+ ownership.
KAFTKO has redefined the traditional kaftan, transforming it into fashion-forward lounge wear suitable for everyone. Founded by the visionary duo of Oday Shakar, a couture designer, and James Adelman, a corporate attorney, the brand offers a diverse range of clothing, including kaftans, swimwear, kimonos, bandanas, shirts, and shorts, catering to all body types and genders. Their designs stand out with modern prints and original textiles, making each piece unique and special, reflecting their goal to represent and celebrate the diversity of our world.
At Manifest, we were thrilled when Oday approached us to create new prints for KAFTKO. To truly understand the essence of the brand, our creative director Nick Yarger flew out to New York to visit their Brooklyn headquarters, setting up shop in the heart of Dumbo. Immersed in the brand's spirit, we were honored to collaborate with Oday in developing the iconic pride look for the legendary Billy Porter. This design went beyond just representing the colors of the LGBTQ+ community; it captured the essence of movement and flow, reminiscent of universal elements found in nature - water, layers of earth, or mineral rings in stone - a reflection of the beauty inside us all.
During our time in New York, we had the pleasure of working with the fabulous Ross Mathews. Together with KAFTKO, we created a print to commemorate Ross's wedding in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico. This versatile design seamlessly translated into every style KAFTKO offers, from the traditional kaftan to the swimwear, ensuring Ross's special moment was forever etched in the brand's fabric.
Back at home in Eugene Oregon , our collaboration with KAFTKO extended far beyond just a few prints. We worked tirelessly to develop dozens of new prints and trims, even helping create an entirely new line called "Kamp." In addition to our creative contributions, we crafted engaging email campaigns with animations that captured the essence of the brand and contributed to the development of KAFTKO's very first brand book.
At Manifest Creative, we take immense pride in collaborating with brands like KAFTKO, which embrace inclusivity, representation, and diversity, values that align with our own. Working with Oday, James, and the entire KAFTKO team has been an inspiring journey, and we look forward to continuing to create impactful and innovative designs that celebrate the beauty of individuality and self-expression. Together, we aim to make a positive difference in the fashion world by creating spaces that welcome and celebrate everyone.
See more of the work we do with KAFTKO.
