KOTOBA, is a collective knitwear brand that focuses on promoting WHOLEGARMENT® knitting technology. By integrating technology and knitwear, KOTOBA produces timeless easy-to-wear pieces for the modern woman.
“The Whole Becomes the One”
KOTOBA, the Japanese word for language, was the starting point for our brand. Even though the world is vast and composed of many different cultures and beliefs, we are linked together through language as a means of communicating thoughts and ideas. Language may initially separate us, but it can also connect us when something is universally understood, such as simply doing what is right. When we take responsibility to do what is best for all, we must also come together in order to make a difference regardless of one’s background, culture, or story and allow the whole to become the one.
KOTOBA is a collective effort from all kinds of people, from different walks of life. We want to bring attention to social and environmental responsibility in fashion because it has become an issue that affects everyone. With growing concern over the environment and the need for ethical practices in the workplace all over the world, sustainable practices in the creation of fashion is becoming a more imperative and worldly matter.
At KOTOBA, language is defined in a number of ways:
Learning Process
Learning a language is a process that requires trial and error. It was through understanding the “language” of knitwear and attempting different, innovative approaches to knitwear that WHOLEGARMENT® technology was born.
Language of Slow Revolution
The Slow Revolution is its own language and culture, with its own set of ideals and practices. KOTOBA utilizes ideas from the Slow Revolution movement by practicing more sustainable and ethical methods during the production process and emphasizing the quality and craft of our knitwear. We provide fair wages to our workers and practice a minimal waste policy during the production process. Additionally, all of our knitwear is created locally in the USA.
Transcends Barriers.
Even though communication between different cultures can be difficult, we can be united by a single thought or idea that can benefit all and ultimately transcend the barriers of language.
KOTOBA is striving to create socially and environmentally responsible fashion by supporting WHOLEGARMENT® technology and producing all our garments in the USA.
WHAT IS WHOLEGARMENT®?
WHOLEGARMENT® knitting is a revolutionary and state-of-the-art knitwear system developed by Shima Seiki. Serving at the forefront of knitwear technology, WHOLEGARMENT® offers a superior alternative to the conventional knitting methods. WHOLEGARMENT® products are knitted in one whole piece and offer excellent incentives such as soft, lightweight comfort, improved stretch and mobility, and minimal yarn consumption.