Made for modern coastal life
Los Angeles native Jenni Kayne debuted her self-named collection of sequined skirts and silk separates in 2003. Today, Kayne, 35, has five free-standing stores in California with a sixth set to open in New York later this year. Her stores are where a full scope of items conveying a modern-day coastal lifestyle can be found.
Why she matters
Kayne has never strayed from her Los Angeles roots, elevating basic pieces like cashmere wool coats and sweaters, shirtdresses and wide-leg trousers to the delight of her celebrity following. She has expanded her brand to include her passion for interior design, cooking and family. She frequently collaborates with brands such as Parachute (home), Pottery Barn Kids (home), Marysia (swim), Solly Baby, Earth tu Face (beauty) and Linus (bicycles) to spread her laid-back-yet-luxurious look into categories beyond fashion.
Collection highlights
Kayne debuted the D’Orsay flat shoe in 2006, and it became a go-to alternative to the ballet flat. It is a bestseller from her collection, as are cashmere fisherman sweaters and yak and wool sweater coats.
In a move opposite to what most fashion brands have been doing, Kayne has relocated the production of her collection from overseas to L.A. — while also choosing to lower her retail prices by 30%. (Kayne’s line ranges from $60 for a candle from her home line to $625 for a fur-trimmed jacket.)
“I felt that because most of my business is my own line, I had an opportunity to lower my margin and to try and find better manufacturing that was local,” says Kayne about her decision. “I lowered my price point in order to be more transparent to the customer but also because I wanted to be able to be on more women.”
Her line is mostly produced in L.A. except for her shoes and home collection.
In the studio
Whether it’s the tabletop decor at a dinner party in the Santa Monica Mountains or meandering through any of the Jenni Kayne concept stores, there is an obvious throughline inspired by easy, healthy and laid-back California living.
“My inspiration for design and for the way that I live my life is always through a California lens,” says Kayne, whose studio and corporate office are in Beverly Hills. “I think it draws from nature and landscape and a laid-back way of life that’s all about living well.”
Where she finds inspiration in L.A.
Sullivan Canyon Preservation Assn. stables Mandeville Canyon in Westridge Hammer Museum The beach Galerie Half