Design Thinking: KROST

(Image courtesy of KROST. Image depicts multiple products. The products seen in this photo include: SYF Basic Crewneck, SYF Basic Sweatpants, and SYF Basic Calf Socks (3 per pack). The SYF Basic Crewneck come in Heather Gray and Emerald. This Crewneck is described as," Unisex , crafted with 360 GSM Lightly Brushed French Terry (100% Cotton),features a ribbed knit collar & sleeve cuffs, designed with “Support Your Friends” logo, recycled woven KROST label sewn at sleeve, and often paired with the SYF Basics Sweatpants. Price=$98. You can order the SYF Basic Crewneck Sweater at https://krostnewyork.com/products/syf-basics-crewneck?variant=32302883274865 . The SYF Basic Sweatpants come in Heather Gray. These sweatpants are described as," Unisex , crafted with 360 GSM Lightly Brushed French Terry (100% Cotton),features a ribbed knit collar & sleeve cuffs, designed with “Support Your Friends” logo, recycled woven KROST label sewn at sleeve, and often paired with the SYF Basics Crewneck." Price-$98. You can order these pants at https://krostnewyork.com/products/syf-basics-sweatpants?variant=32302886223985. The SYF Basic Calf Socks come three in a pack in Black, Heather Gray and White. These socks are described as, "Crafted with 75% cotton, 20% nylon, 5% spandex, 3-pack includes black, heather grey, and white, customized KROST logo hits on toes , and “Support Your Friends” detailing print at calf." Price=$28. You can order these socks at https://krostnewyork.com/products/syf-basics-3-p-tube-socks. By ordering any of these products, a person is donating to four locally owned black business per purchase.)

In Graduate School, one of the buzzwords professors love to discuss is "Design Thinking." Design Thinking is an iterative process in which we seek to understand the user, challenge assumptions, and redefine problems to identify alternative strategies and solutions that might not be instantly apparent with our initial level of understanding (Dam and Siang). Design Thinking enables a company to understand consumer needs to serve their audience better. For this project, I contacted different companies to learn how the organizations apply Design Thinking into their market offerings. I had the opportunity to talk with KROST to learn more about their organization.

(Image courtesy of KROST. Image depicts the Essential Barneys Crewneck in Yellow. This crewneck also comes in Cherry Blossom and Antique White. Krost described this crewneck as," The Essential Barneys Crewneck is constructed with 100% soft cotton french terry that’s designed for maximum comfort & durability. This long sleeve crewneck features a ribbed knit collar & cuffs, custom exterior label, and cross-chest embroidery. Designs are inspired by Vintage Artwork from Barneys New York Archives." Price=$160. You can order this crewneck at https://krostnewyork.com/products/essential-barneys-crewneck?variant=39341350223985. KROST allows customers to give back to the New York Community by ," allowing customers to donate $5 to help fight food insecurity though New York Restoration Projects."

1. What makes Krost different from other fashion brands?

The mission & the team. The message of “Support Your Friends” is not only displayed through the clothes we design & partnerships we form, but is the driving force that motivates each team member to pursue their personal mission and positively impact the world.

(Image Courtesy of KROST. Image depicts the OCA Low Suede shoe. This unisex shoe is described as," Handmade vulcanized sneaker with a stitched midsole , built from natural rubber & recycled plants , produced with ethically sourced suede, accented by luxe gold trims, lined with cotton canvas material and featured a slip resistant rubber sole, laces made with debossed metal aglets & eyelets , plant-based memory foam insoles made from Organic Mamona Oil & Cork, often paired with Pillars Quarter Zip & Piping Fleece Trousers." Price=$98. You can order this pair of shoes at https://krostnewyork.com/products/black-canvas-sustainable-sneaker. When a customer purchases this pair of shoes, KROST will plant two trees in the Brazilian rainforest.)

2. How does KROST stay ahead of upcoming fashion trends?

Our motto relies on us pursuing our own path and not adhering to common trends that are popular amongst most apparel brands. Instead, we look at what is going on in the world as inspiration for our collections and use our apparel to try and help resolve some of the challenges that are most prevalent in society.

(Company Logo)

3. How does KROST incorporate its mission and vision into its product offerings?

Our mission depends on prioritizing ‘purpose over products’, a message that is reflected in every design, product, collection & campaign we promote. The concept for each collection originates with a “give-back” element and is further developed into a comprehensive story based on that initial component.

(Gif courtesy of Wix.com)

4. What is the future of the company?

We are incredibly excited for the future. Our brand’s mission relies on the emphasis of inclusivity. The goal is to create products that reach a wider range of demographics, particularly the younger age group, because we believe in their ability to successfully shape, transform, and impact the future.

(Image courtesy of KROST. Image depicts French Terry Together Hoodie. This hoodie is described as,"French Terry Hoodie. French Terry. Script Embroidery. Made in NYC. The ultra comfort French Terry Together Hoodie, milled and sourced locally, is developed with 100% french terry making it a practical piece all year round.Cut & sewn in New York, this hoodie features a carefully stitched design with a unifying message: Together We Can. You are donating 5 meals to Food Bank For New York City with this purchase." Price=$145. You can order this hoodie at https://krostnewyork.com/products/french-terry-together-hoodie.)