Inspirational quotes are displayed at intervals around Kai D’s namesake shop, adding wit and whimsy. Large mood boards are testimony to Kai D’s love of utilitarian and functional clothing and products. Originally from Taiwan, Kai D came to NY to study menswear at FIT. After graduating he moved quickly through the ranks, from assistant designer to VP Design at both Structure and Nautica within two years of leaving college.

"Tools & Clothing for Artisans."

In 2004 he started his own design and marketing consulting firm, launching his own collection five years later. Opening a pop up shop on the Lower Eastside in 2010 he realized that he most enjoyed ‘controlling the total expression’ of his brand so opened a permanent home for Kai D in Williamsburg in 2013 on Grand Street. An advocate of what he terms ‘slow fashion’ he believes in creating garments that are well made and timeless, products that people buy and cherish for a long time.

Kai D. goods are handmade by a small team of tailors, sewers and printers in New York City's garment district using fine heritage materials.

Kai D’s designs are complemented by other brands that he loves and that share a similar vision to his. His customers are from creative fields, architects, writers, and photographers, people that appreciate the quality, craftsmanship and authentic details of the clothing. Kai D enjoys all aspects of designing and selling his own brand, he endeavors to achieve his ideal balance which is spending a third of his time selling, a third of his time on execution and the remaining third on research.

"We build our collection in small batches with the intention for each garment to last. Through classic styling, quality fabrics made by historic mills, precise fits, and meticulous finishing, each shirt, tie, or jacket becomes timeless."