To celebrate his milestone, 40th anniversary as an American fashion fixture, Micheal Kors decided to use his platform to support the future of the fashion industry—offering an emerging brand the global reach, distribution, and platform of the Michael Kors company to help bring their brand to a larger audience. “Anniversaries make you think about both the past and the future,” says Kors. “I began my business in New York City in 1981, and now I find it very exciting to be able to turn the spotlight on the next generation of designers working here in New York City. The result; a collaboration with New York-based accessories brand, ASHYA, launching two exclusive, limited-edition bags, available to shop now. The two limited edition styles: the Multi Bag and the Ashley Bolo Bag, combine the sensibilities of both brands—ASHYA’s signature silhouettes with a custom print that incorporates the MK Signature logo print in a new pattern inspired by ASHYA’S nods to West African weaving techniques.
ASHYA, founded in 2017 by design duo Ashley Cimone and Moya Annece, is a Brooklyn-based design label that focuses on well crafted, gender-fluid leather goods—through a diverse array of cultural narratives. With their distinct silhouettes—like their signature passport polo, and chic slingback bag—ASHYA has been carving out a niche for themselves as an “it” bag go-to, with everyone from fashions’ cool girls to Beyoncé wearing their designs.” When I first saw the work of Ashley and Moya at ASHYA, their thoughtfulness and unique point of view impressed me immediately” says Kors. “I reached out to them about doing a collaboration together that would merge our sensibilities and I am thrilled with how the collaboration came together.” This collaboration sets a precedent for established brands using their platforms to spotlight the next generation of designers.
Shop the collaboration below:
The limited-edition collaboration is available to shop now at MichaelKors.com and at Michael Kors Lifestyle stores.
