Photo by Bert Alexander
The KayOss in the Calm Boutique will be open until May 31.
KayOss Designs is the brainchild of designer Amy Johnson, a former environmental engineer from the University of Illinois who discovered her passion for fabric after studying fashion design in Florence, Italy. Her unique background and travels are evident throughout her work, where fabrics and utility meet.
Johnson recently opened a new pop-up store in the Central West End called KayOss in the Calm Boutique (387 N. Euclid, Wednesday–Saturday 11 a.m.-6 p.m.).
“The KayOss customer is someone who likes to feel good in clothes,” says Johnson. “They like to be noticed and that’s what happens with the fabrics, the movement, the color, and the design concepts that go into the pieces. The concept of KayOss is to create conversation between women.”
Johnson operates by appointment and through trunk shows. However, with the launch of her spring collection, the new pop-up shop was the perfect opportunity for her to showcase designs to her clientele and to meet new customers.
The line includes tops, dresses, pants, and cardigans. All of this and more are available at the pop-up location.
And, during the month of May, KayOss will collaborate with an established woman artist to showcase her work inside the boutique.
“It’s going to be beautiful and fun," says Johnson. "The works are just beautiful, bright, and energetic, so it’s all going to go really well with the clothing line.”
The “Art of May” series will take place every Friday in May from 5-8 p.m. The schedule of featured artist includes:
Barb Flunker, Friday, May 6
Janice Schoultz Mudd, Friday, May 13
Muriel Eulich, Friday, May 20
The KayOss in the Calm Boutique will be open until May 31.
