Kito 1981.

Tell us about your label, Kito 1981, and what the name means?

Kito means "element" in Swahili, and this word is the very foundation of the Kito 1981 brand.

Through a range of accessories – including handmade leather sandals, designer sunglasses and state-of-the-art headphones – Kito 1981 helps define style and create each individual's unique ‘element’.

All products from Kito 1981 are of premium design and maximum quality. Only the finest, selectively sourced materials are used. Kito 1981 is about staying true to the clean and classic aesthetic, and the brand is the raw, instinctive synthesis between personality, fashion and design.

Your Made in Greece Collection was inspired by history and the Cyclades Islands of Greece, tell us more about this...

Throughout the Kito 1981 collections, you will find elements of Greek history and European influence. This is mostly due to the founders' background.

Nikolina was born in Greece and grew up in the idyllic Santorini where her father still lives. Caitlin visited the island last summer for the first time and that’s where they had the idea of creating a collection made in Greece. This signified the birth of the Made in Greece Collection of handmade leather sandals.

The collection represents the rawness, simplicity and elegance of the Greek islands in its minimalistic aesthetic and distinct personality. It includes sandals named after iconic destinations such as Mykonos, Santorini and Paros.

How do you source your materials?

The finest European leather has been used for the Made in Greece Collection of handmade leather sandals. We have attended and participated in exhibitions around the world to source the best materials, and uncover inspiration for future collections.

What is the creative process behind your designs?

With the Made in Greece Collection, we were looking to channel the unique, timeless, historical style of ancient Greece – our inspiration came from music, art and history. Leather sandals have been made and worn in Greece for centuries, and the Kito 1981 collection reflects the classic, ever-enduring aesthetic of these ancient sandals.

Kito 1981 sandals are made using traditional methods for maximum durability and comfort. The brand’s aesthetic remains clean and classic across all designs, and all products are made to last.

What can market-folk expect to find at the December 5 event?

Visitors to our stall can expect to experience flashbacks to (or instant cravings for!) summer in Greece. They will find authentic, easy-to-wear handmade leather sandals, alongside a range of complementary accessories. And visitors will not be able to miss us, for our store will be presented as a blue-and-white Mediterranean holiday!

MY FAVE THINGS

Fave fashion piece you own: Anything beach ready!

Meal to have cooked for you: Spanakopita.

Australian fashion designer: Dion Lee.

Item in your studio: Our camera.

Fave place to unwind: By the ocean.