About
The Designer
Certainly one can only presume that there is a brilliant visionary behind the makings of Kao Pao Shu. Naida Begeta is the diligent prevailing force that is the origin, implementation, and perfection of each piece in the collection. Responding to her intrinsic ability to perceive and create, Naida attended and graduated from the University of Sarajevo’s Academy of Fine Arts in product design. Her unique ability to take structural and unconventional design theory and apply it to fashion has won her frequent awards and worldwide recognition. In 2009, Ulupubih, a Bosnian association, awarded Naida the Grand Prix Award, which also led to her work being published in the textbook “Design Decade”. She was also awarded the Best New Blood Award by D&AD in 2007.
Naida was born and raised in Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina. Relocating in the United States at the age of fifteen, Naida developed a persevering and enduring attitude that has led to her success as a designer. When meeting Naida, one can be enraptured by the indefatigable spirit and conviction of which she conducts herself. Never one to take her self too seriously, there is an inherent whimsicality to each of her designs which is integrated with an insightful, urbane, unyielding temperament; so palpable in the woman herself.
Naida resides in Santa Monica, California.
The Collection
All of the clothes designed are made in Los Angeles. Naida designs and sews each original piece extemporaneously, creating and growing each piece as it comes to her, instead of adhering methodically to a premeditated concept. The results are avant-garde and completely organic works of art.
Kao Pao Shu bags are the origin of the company. The bags are sewn together using precisely chosen webbing and ribbons, formulating new shapes and constructions that reveal the essence of each bag. Vivid colors and exquisite fabrics produce an endless transfusion of art that embody the spirit and inspiration of Naida.
Each season, while creating completely new designs, she incorporates fresh additions to her trademark “Ribbon” designs. Those who are fans of Kao Pao Shu are well acquainted with the ribbon jackets, dresses, and skirts. Using contrasting ribbons of various colors, fabrication, and distinction, she sews ribbon upon ribbon. From this imaginative concoction, they are sewn lengthwise, constructing one-of-a-kind, timeless pieces that assume offbeat shapes and personality.
Over-lock dresses and sweaters are another rare design of Kao Pao Shu. In the tradition of making exclusive constructions, different fabrics are sewn with an over-lock seam along the edge. From this new textured fabric, the silhouette is sewn, wrapping around to create a form-fitting garment. As the pieces are seamless, the attire can effortlessly transform from a loose fitting sweater, to an elegant fitted dress.
The diverse line offers handbags, dresses, pants, shirts, jackets and accessories.
The Company
Kao Pao Shu began in 2006 in Naida’s hometown of Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina. The name Kao Pao Shu is taken from the 1960’s Kung Fu director and actress of the same name, who represents strength and longevity for women. The designs were quick to gain attention and notoriety and soon after Kao Pao Shu relocated to the United States. The brand has sustained and nurtured a long-standing relationship with Japan, occupying more than twenty boutique stores throughout the country. Kao Pao Shu boasts its foremost and most considerable partnership with the sensational Dice and Dice store in Fukuoka, and has recently attained a relationship with Isetan Department Store in Tokyo. Kao Pao Shu is devoted to nurturing its existing relationships and eager to build its customer base around the world.
