In a fashion landscape often dominated by logos and fleeting trends, Khaore stands as a beacon of thoughtful design and artistic expression. Founded in 2017 by Raiheth Rawla and Wei Hung Chen, two visionaries who met at Parsons School of Design in New York, Khaore reimagines mundane objects into sculptural handbags that blur the lines between functionality and art .
Origins Rooted in Observation
The inception of Khaore was born from a shared curiosity about the overlooked details of daily life. Rawla, originally from Kolkata, India, and Chen, hailing from Guangzhou, China, bonded over their fascination with how ordinary items could inspire extraordinary designs. Their debut collection, “Roadside,” drew inspiration from commonplace objects like traffic cones and jute baskets, transforming them into avant-garde accessories .
Design Philosophy: Art Meets Utility
Khaore’s design ethos revolves around the concept of “art with utility.” Each handbag is a limited-edition piece that challenges conventional notions of accessories. By collaborating with artisans in New York, India, and Italy, the brand ensures that every creation is not only aesthetically compelling but also ethically produced .
Notable Collections and Collaborations
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“Bais” Collection: This line experimented with jute, a material traditionally used for sacks and totes in India and China, pushing its boundaries to create refined handbags .
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“Bora” Collection: Inspired by the biomorphic sculptures of Isamu Noguchi, this collection featured curvaceous carryalls made from jute sourced from a mill in Kolkata, reflecting the brand’s commitment to sustainable materials and artistic inspiration .
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Collaboration with One Of: In partnership with Patricia Voto’s label, Khaore co-designed the Mini Pillow bag, utilizing deadstock fabrics to create a piece that celebrates craftsmanship and sustainability.
Visual Identity and Branding
To encapsulate its unique vision, Khaore collaborated with design consultancy Pentagram to develop a brand identity that mirrors its design philosophy. The logo, a reinterpretation of the classic serif typeface Caslon, features angled curves and radical cuts, echoing the forms found in Khaore’s handbag designs .
A Brand for the Discerning Eye
Khaore’s creations have garnered attention from fashion connoisseurs and publications alike, praised for their innovative approach to accessory design. By transforming everyday objects into wearable sculptures, Khaore invites its audience to perceive the ordinary through an extraordinary lens
In an era where fashion often prioritizes the ephemeral, Khaore’s commitment to timeless design, ethical production, and artistic integrity positions it as a brand that not only adorns but also enlightens.
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