A little about how I got here
After 25 years as a Hollywood costumer, dressing actors for television and film, I knew it was time to embark on a new journey, one that would reconnect me with my roots. Growing up on an orchard in Napa Valley I experienced a simpler side of life, far removed from the hurried pace of Hollywood, where nothing seems real, including the clothing on the screen. I want to make clothing that enables women to feel as beautiful in the real world as they would on the silver screen.
Growing up, like most kids of the 70's, there was always a sewing machine ready to go. We had an old Singer that was in constant use. Every holiday my mother would make my 2 sisters and me matching outfits and herself something amazing that could not be found at a department store. Her perfectly fit clothing always looked beautiful and effortless. Regardless of the fabric she was able to bring out a quiet elegance in the silhouettes she created. I have embraced my mom's approach and integrated it into my designs.
At kitanni, we weave together the artistry of classic silhouettes, the inspiration of my upbringing, and a touch of Hollywood glamour to create each piece.
The Fabric of Kitanni
After hitting the ground running I realized I had a lot to figure out. I started my journey in the land of fabrics. I love all fabrics. Fabrics that look and feel amazing on the body aren’t as easy to find as I thought it would be.
As I wandered around the city and went to textile shows, I noticed “organic” fabric was everywhere. I wasn’t sure what that meant, I hear it all the time but didn’t have a grasp on the actual meaning. After a deep dive, I started learning the differences between all the names and labels given to fabric. This is when I started researching “deadstock” fabric. This is an upcycled remnant fabric, it is when fabric is intercepted and purchased from fabric mills and manufacturing houses before it is sent to our overflowing landfills.
I spend hours/days sifting through all the beautiful choices to use for kitanni.
Using remnant fabric has some pro’s and con’s. Con, when the fabric is gone it is gone, it can’t be reordered. Pro, when the fabric is gone it is gone, small batch production has a lower inventory than most lines, offering more fabric options in the same styles.
I have always loved downtown Los Angeles, the energy is something that can’t be explained. I wanted to produce kitanni in the garment district to bring all the creative and positive energy into each piece.
