The Obsession Behind Kiko Kostadinov

One of our most interesting character traits as humans is our ability to develop a passion or interest in a way that is so strong and driving that it can become all-consuming. Our affinity for preferences and personality is perfectly represented by the way that the fashion communities hyperfixate on designers by the year. Before Rick Owens trickled down the social media pipeline and became popularized amongst the average consumer, he was the obsession of the high fashion community. Prior to Rick Owens, Virgil Abloh shared a similar fate of growing amongst high culture before becoming popularized into a fashion mogul, and serving as the obsession of fashion communities across the world. With that said, who might succeed these two high fashion tycoons as we venture into 2023? As avant garde fashion meets more formal notes in recent trends, I think that it’s fair to say that Kiko Kostadinov is going to be a big name in the next few months, and possibly the fashion community’s new hyperfixation. Kostadinov incorporates hints of formality into his lines as to pay homage to the high fashion community and give the perception of elite culture, while simultaneously creating pieces that are flattering on a wide array of body types. While you might initially assume these two characteristics to be diametrically opposed, Kostadinov uses the best of both ends of the spectrum to act as a medium between high fashion and everyday people. 

While Kiko Kostadinov has successfully been producing highly demanded collections for the past few years, he’s expanded his brand into several different spheres of the fashion community through collaborating with brands like Stussy and Hysteric Glamour. Of his most recent collaborations, Kostadinov’s most anticipated contribution may easily be his work with Heaven by Marc Jacobs. In the upcoming collection, both designers’ influence  melds perfectly to produce a 16 piece womenswear collection that uses contrasting shapes and designs to emphasize a sense of expression without limits. The bright argyle patterns paired with plaid button down skirts draws a direct reference to many of Marc Jacobs previous lines. Whereas, the distinct cut and crop of many of these items in the collection are a byproduct of Kiko Kostadinov’s unique influence on fashion. Not only has Kiko started a renowned line of high fashion for himself, he is now branching out into less coveted spheres of the fashion community and connecting with consumers through creative, alluring collaborations. Similarly, the Bulgarian designer’s work collaborating with ASICS allowed him to really establish a strong supporter base within the streetwear scene, rather than just pandering to a top-drawer audience. This collaboration really allowed Kostadinov to showcase his vision to a wider swath of the fashion community and has allowed him a special place amongst other modern designers. 

In Kostadinov’s most recent collaboration with Heaven by Marc Jacobs, he showcases his ability to display his talent in a way that compliments his co-collaborator. The unique cut of this multi-colored dress is a distinct marking of Kostadinov’s work that doesn’t take away from the signature Heaven style. Rather, it adds a subtle, but notable feature to a common shape. This method of designing has allowed Kostadinov safely, yet significantly made his mark on contemporary fashion. 

By Sharna Osborne (HYPEBEAST)

While his collaborations have certainly popularized his brand, his own work is certainly indicative of his unique genius. Kostadinov’s products tend to carry a sense of irony with them. While his brand has been tailored to, and was born from, the heart of high fashion, many of Kostadinov’s pieces are often practical and inclusive. His vision encompasses shapes that compliment many different body types, as well as the fact that they are stylistically versatile. As we’ve seen from many of his various lines, Kiko Kostadinov tends to incorporate different utilitarian accents into his clothing. The models of his SS23 line look as though they are one step ahead of everyday trends, in a way that makes consumers gravitate towards following Kostadinov’s inspiration. He has successfully integrated all of the priorities of contemporary fashion and has seamlessly melded them together, in order to carry out his vision. 

The contrasting of themes is most apparent in his SS23 line. Here, he showcases the versatility and practicality of his workwear through spotlighting a two tone boxy-fit work jacket. While the details are subtle, the color blocking and unique pocket design add a sense of personality to the coat. Kostadinov contrasts the idea of practicality with tassels that drape from the model’s bag, and a gray distressed knit that pairs perfectly with the rest of the outfit. While excess material and distressing aren’t as useful, they highlight the utility of Kiko Kostadinov’s SS23 line. 

By Isidore Montag (Vogue)

While it is clear to see why Kiko Kostadinov’s work would be appealing at face value, I think that there’s something below the surface that’s really significant and worth analyzing. Riddled throughout Kostadinov’s art and character, we can see a unique juxtaposition of opposite themes. While his clothes are wearable and practical, they also satisfy the image of high fashion. Kostadinov himself has experienced a significant spike in popularity, yet still makes a conscious effort to position himself outside of popular discourse. And when the designer creates, he’s able to integrate his appreciation for evolution and change, while producing pieces that are timeless and consistently fashionable. These unique contrasts are what drive his work to appeal to so many different demographics, and are definitely what is going to make him our next obsession.