When creating her newest collection of silk scarves, Kyriaki Drakotos turned to the women around her. Considering a specific individual for each design, Drakotos conceived five ethereal patterns inspired by their personalities—with each bearing the initial of their influencer. “They are both deeply personal and universal,” she says, “meant as tributes to honor incredible women.” The women range in age and background—like-minded artists, activists, an opera singer, a nomadic writer, and a politician. Regardless of their stories or history, they’re all united in their ability to transform the world around them.
Drakotos founded her eponymous label, Kyriaki, earlier this year, which has already attracted buzz for its delicate, hand-painted silk scarves. Beyond the objects themselves, her story has an air of storybook romance. Born in Greece, she moved to New York City when she was ten years old, living in Jamaica, Queens, and going on to study graphic arts and illustration at Pratt Institute. Influenced by Greek embroidering traditions and the patchwork of interiors in which she grew up living, Drakotos created a line that was, in that same way, deepy tactile and personal. Referencing antique tapestries and wallpaper, Drakotos picks up her palette, rendering stitches of embroidery with a paintbrush. These intricate designs are eventually printed on fine silks in Como, Italy.
