Kenneth Cole New York

Kenneth Cole New York is a privately held American fashion brand known for its modern footwear, apparel, and accessories, with a strong emphasis on social impact and mental health advocacy. The company was founded in 1983 by Kenneth Cole, who famously launched the first collection from a trailer outside the New York Shoe Expo, setting the tone for a brand rooted in both creativity and urban sensibility. Over the years, Kenneth Cole New York has grown from its origins in footwear to offer a broader range of products, including clothing, outerwear, watches, and accessories, while maintaining a consistent presence in department stores and online.

As of November 2025, Kenneth Cole New York operates 12 flagship and outlet stores across the United States, focusing its physical retail footprint in key urban markets such as New York, Los Angeles, Miami, and Chicago. The brand’s reach extends globally through wholesale and licensing partnerships, and it has prioritized digital growth and e-commerce in recent years. Rather than pursuing aggressive store openings, the company has concentrated on optimizing its locations and forming strategic partnerships to strengthen its presence in both physical and digital retail.

The last five years have seen Kenneth Cole New York adapt to the changing retail landscape by investing in online channels and refining its store strategy, moving away from broad brick-and-mortar expansion. The company has also welcomed new leadership, with Jed Berger stepping in as CEO and President in 2025, while Kenneth Cole continues to guide the brand’s creative direction as Executive Chairman and Chief Creative Officer. This leadership transition reflects the brand’s ongoing evolution and commitment to both innovation and its founding values.

Kenneth Cole New York’s approach to retail is flexible, with a mix of flagship, outlet, and digital formats that allow the brand to fit a variety of urban and lifestyle environments. Its established reputation, selective growth strategy, and continued focus on social advocacy make it a credible and adaptable tenant for landlords, brokers, and developers seeking a brand with both heritage and a forward-looking posture.