Kookai
| Company type | Private |
|---|---|
| Industry | Fashion |
| Founded | January 1, 1983 in Paris, France |
| Founder | Jean-Lou Tepper, Jacques Nataf, Philippe de Hesdin |
| Headquarters | Paris , France |
Area served | Europe, Asia, Australia, New Zealand |
| Products | Women's clothing |
| Parent | Antonelle Un Jour Ailleurs (since 30 November 2023) |
Kookai is a women's fashion brand established in Paris, France in 1983 by Jean-Lou Tepper, Jacques Nataf, and Philippe de Hesdin. The brand's mission centers on delivering trendy clothing for women at affordable price points. In 1992, Kookai expanded into Australia through license holders Robert Cromb and Danielle Vagner, who later purchased the European operations from the Vivarte Group in 2017 to consolidate the brand worldwide.
With more than 200 retail locations throughout Europe, Asia, Australia, and New Zealand, Kookai is recognized for its Paris-inspired stylish apparel. The company manages production sites in Fiji and Sri Lanka, where the majority of its Southern Hemisphere collections are manufactured.
Ethical behaviour
Kookai became part of the Vivarte Group in 1996 and committed to an Ethical Charter that guarantees products are created under responsible conditions. The label actively endorses initiatives such as UNICEF's "Frimousses" vaccination campaign, programs addressing HIV/AIDS, and Breast Cancer awareness efforts.
In 2012, Kookai Australia founded the Katalyst Foundation, which aims to combat poverty sustainably by fostering self-reliant economies through skill development, efficient resource use, community engagement, assured markets for local products, and infrastructure supporting healthy lifestyles.
Support
Kookai provides support to students pursuing careers in fashion and arts, notably through partnerships with Fondation Elle. The "Prix ELLE Solidarité mode" competition enabled three emerging designers to produce collections sold in Kookai stores. Additionally, the brand organized an environmentally conscious contest at the Decorative Arts School, encouraging students to create window displays using recycled clothing sourced from Parisian shops.
Kookai in France
The brand has been prominently featured in top-tier French fashion publications including Be, Marie Claire, Cosmopolitan, Glamour, and Elle. Its e-commerce platform facilitates online purchases with comprehensive size guides and delivery options. Customers benefit from a loyalty program where points accrued can be redeemed as purchase credits.
On 1 February 2023, Kookai entered receivership, describing this as an opportunity to reorganize and strengthen its financial standing. Later, on 30 November 2023, Antonelle Un Jour Ailleurs acquired the brand.