The Kiko Empire is expanding

Inside Kiko Kostadinov’s World : Architecture, Fashion, and a Terrier Named Dante

Nearly a decade after Kiko Kostadinov launched his eponymous label, the designer and womenswear directors Laura and Deanna Fanning have together established themselves as essential voices in the fashion industry.

Kostadinov has also made his mark through collaborations, most notably with Asics, which left a lasting impact on the footwear world, as well as with Camper, CP Company, Hysteric Glamour, Levi’s, and more recently Dr. Martens.

After opening his first physical store in the heart of Harajuku, Tokyo, in 2024, followed by a second in Los Angeles the same year on Melrose Avenue, Kostadinov is now expanding his empire with a third store in London.

These locations are strategic. Tokyo was an obvious choice for the first store, thanks to Kiko’s strong local connections, particularly through his collaborations with Asics, and the country also serves as a major market and source of inspiration. 

Kiko Kostadinov Los Angeles Shop

Los Angeles, especially Melrose, made sense too, it’s near Morán Morán gallery, with which Kiko launched the Otto958 collaboration in 2020, and the area is rich in art galleries, restaurants, and cultural energy.

London, of course, is where it all began. Kiko arrived in the city from Bulgaria at a young age, graduated from Central Saint Martins, and launched his brand there. His studios have always been based in London and recently moved to a spacious two-floor location near London Fields. The new store occupies the ground floor, while the creative studio is on the first floor.

Kiko Kostadinov stores are experiences in themselves, with unique architectural designs meant to create a memorable physical experience in an increasingly digital world. Behind these distinctive spaces is the talent of Ryan Trecartin. 

After designing the Tokyo and LA stores, he brought his vision to the new London location. This time, Trecartin, together with Lizzie Fitch, drew inspiration from their 2016 film Stunt Tank, translating it into pontoon-inspired furniture and snaking chrome railings. The installation turns the retail space into an immersive environment where architecture, fashion, and performance intersect.

Stunt Tank by Lizzie Fitch & Trecartin

Kiko Kostadinov London Shop Source : yadokariki

The London store is intended as a hybrid space, not just a shop, but also the possibilities to hosting events, exhibitions, and exclusive product drops. 

To mark the occasion, a private show took place directly in the store, away from the official calendar and the hustle and bustle of Paris Fashion Week. The show was named after Kiko’s Lakeland Terrier, Dante.  

This allowed Kiko to incorporate British references for the first time, inspired by Dante, who comes from northern England. It also nods to Valentino’s Oliver the Pug, which inspired a small clothing line. 

Valentino with Pug Oliver

The collection focused heavily on textures and materials, drawing on those Dante enjoys and imagining how they could translate into a wardrobe. 

Photography by yslil

Dante is the studio’s mascot, present daily at work and at every show, becoming an integral part of Kiko’s world. A potential collaboration with Patagonia is coming...

The show also continued Kiko’s fruitful collaborations, particularly with Levi’s and, for the first time, Dr. Martens is collaborating with Kiko on two new models : one in a deep chrome green with a yellow panel, and another all-black with a strap.

This strap model reminds me a bit of Kiko’s Harkman shoe, I can’t help but wonder if it served as an inspiration. Both pairs are made from upcycled leather in England and are scheduled for release in February 2026.

Collaborations help Kiko gain resources and visibility, while the rapid expansion of physical stores continues. The brand now employs around 30 people. In less than ten years, these achievements promise an exciting future, the Kiko Kostadinov empire is steadily growing.