Background: My [previous] career was in engineering, but what inspired me were art openings. After discovering fashion design, I did a sabbatical in Florence, where we explored fabrics. It was in that moment I realized I could be a fashion designer.
Choosing the Name KayOss: In engineering, there is order in chaos. So I took the word, but I made it into a girl. We need chaos, because without it we remain stagnant.
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Pop-Ups: I love to find a new space that feels good, especially when the timing is right. It’s a great way to showcase a new line and interact with clients.
Her Most Recent Pop-Up, “KayOss In the Calm”: In 2013, I was diagnosed with ovarian cancer. I realized through Gerson Therapy, a holistic approach to healing, that I was living too much in the outside world and not enough in the inside world. I’ve since learned to create that calm within.
Yoga and Meditation: The two are so good for the mind, body, and spirit. They help release me from this time-sensitive world.
Attire: This is one of my reversible shift dresses, perfect for traveling. The sandals are from one of my many travels, and the bracelets are both gifts from friends from when I was healing.
Chihuly the Dog: She’s a Havanese, and she pretty much owns the business. I got her at the start of KayOss Designs—they are both 10 now—and she has been a part since.