KAREN KANE
Karen Kane, Inc. is a distinguished American fashion company that has been creating stylish and comfortable women's apparel for several decades. Founded by Karen Kane and her husband Lonnie, the company began its journey in their home garage, which served as their first office, studio, and warehouse. The brand was born out of a simple vision: to craft clothing that offers an incredible fit and feeling, made from the finest fabrics and techniques available.
The company's ethos revolves around the belief that women should always feel beautiful and comfortable. This philosophy has been the driving force behind their product creation, which is done with passion and integrity, guided by respect for people and the planet. Karen Kane's designs are celebrated for their relaxed, California-inspired aesthetic, which reflects the founder's roots and the brand's commitment to easy, laid-back style.
Ethical sourcing is a cornerstone of Karen Kane's operations. The company is dedicated to using the finest materials and fabrics, working closely with mills and partners to minimize environmental impact and maintain transparency in workplace conditions. This commitment extends to the brand's manufacturing processes, with a significant portion of the collection being made in the United States, primarily in Southern California.
The team behind Karen Kane is a testament to the brand's values, with over 70% of the management team being women and three-quarters of the employees coming from underrepresented populations. The company ensures that all hourly workers are paid more than the minimum wage, with most earning above Los Angeles' living wage threshold. Full-time employees, including the manufacturing team, are provided with complete health benefits, and the company actively promotes healthy living through ongoing educational programs.
Karen Kane's charitable spirit is evident in the founders' support for various organizations. They are proud supporters of The Nature Conservancy, Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising, Children’s Hospital Los Angeles, Shelter Partnership, Inner-City Arts Los Angeles, Cedars Sinai, City of Hope, The Rape Foundation, Assistance League of Los Angeles, Santa Barbara Cottage Hospital Foundation, Aviva Family & Children’s Services, the Los Angeles Mission, and Cast: Coalition to Abolish Slavery & Trafficking.
The brand has evolved over the years, with Karen and Lonnie's sons, Michael and Robert, joining the company and bringing a renewed promise of innovation and sustainability. This includes increased recycling efforts and the use of state-of-the-art fabrications. As the company looks to the future, it remains true to Karen's original vision while adapting to the changing times, always with the initial promise of quality and comfort at its core.