May 26, 2009 @ 6:54 pm

IN THE MARKET: KAI D.

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Market Editor Celia L. Smith on one of her new favorite things

New designers are always a breath of fresh air. Especially new designers with a talent, which is exactly what makes Kai D. so refreshing. And yet Kai D., whose new self-titled collection debuts this fall, is no freshman. After building an extensive résumé boasting stints as Design Director and V.P. of Design for Nautica Jeans Co. and Nautica International, as well as consulting work for companies like Converse by John Varvatos, Lacoste, and Sean John Underwear, Kai D. has now channeled his creativity into his own work-wear, military and hunting-inspired line. The resulting collection is functional yet fashionable, with strategically placed iPod pockets and openings designed to accommodate ear buds, touches that modernize and elevate the style selections for the blue-collar man.

“I feel the concept of 'build' for my launch collection is a relevant message for this economic environment,” explains Kai D. “We all need to be reminded that we have our unique talents/resources, which can be utilized to 'build' something that is useful for the greater good.”

And Kai D. hasn’t forgotten the working woman, either; he has already begun to develop a womenswear collection, and he anticipates expanding into other categories. But for now, fellas should definitely be on the lookout for this hot designer once the weather starts to cool down. (Van Dam Suspender Pant, $225, Great Jones Denim Shirt, $225) www.kaidutility.com

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