In a city filled with retail giants, Ikou Tschüss brings something special to New York; the beauty of handmade clothing. Swiss designers Carmen D’Appollonio and Guya Marini create unusual material mixes by combining softer textures like silk or cashmere with rugged leathers and metals. Their Soho store carries one of a kind scarves, shirts, pants, dresses and skirts, each piece handcrafted by the designers or their network of friends and family.
The idea for Ikou Tschüss was born when D’Appollonio lost her silk scarf riding a bike. A crochet trim was added to weigh down the silk resulting in the trademark look of the label. The two friends continued to create clothing and accessories, quickly developing a following for their environmentally friendly and sustainable pieces. Soon stores took notice too. “It was just for fun until we were approached to sell our items,” says D’Apollonio. Parisian shopping institution, Colette, was one of the first retailers to carry Ikou Tschüss.
Last September Ikou Tschüss opened their colorful New York City retail location designed by Swiss artist Urs Fischer. The store attracts both discerning knitwear lovers and tourists. Some first time store visitors are surprised to realize that everything is handcrafted. “People are used to seeing mass produced items. They don’t expect to see an item of which there is none other like it,” says D’Apollonio. In a fast fashion mecca, Ikou Tschüss prides itself on creating each of their pieces with love and timeless value.
Scarves retail between $380 and $900; apparel and other print goods range from $600 to $1,000.
Ikou Tschüss is located at 8 Centre Market Place. For more information, visit www.ikoutschuss.com.
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