The Kooples: Parisian Rock Meets Tailored Cool
Origins
The Kooples was founded in 2008 by brothers Alexandre, Laurent, and Raphaël Elicha in Paris, France. The trio, sons of the founders of Comptoir des Cotonniers, sought to blend Parisian sophistication with British rock sensibilities.The brand’s name, a play on the French pronunciation of “couples,” reflects its initial marketing strategy of featuring real-life couples in advertising campaigns.
Ownership
Initially family-owned, The Kooples received investment from LBO France in 2011. In 2019, the brand was acquired by the Swiss holding company Maus Frères Holding. Most recently, in March 2025, Verdoso acquired The Kooples, marking a new chapter in its corporate journey.
Aesthetic
The Kooples is renowned for its rock ‘n’ roll-inspired aesthetic, characterized by slim silhouettes, androgynous designs, and a monochromatic palette. The brand seamlessly fuses Parisian chic with British edge, offering pieces that exude effortless cool. Signature elements include tailored blazers, leather jackets, and skull motifs, all contributing to its distinctive style.
Signature Pieces
- Tailored Blazers: Sharp, slim-fit blazers that epitomize the brand’s commitment to refined tailoring.
- Leather Jackets: Embodying the rock spirit, these jackets are staples in The Kooples’ collections.
- Skull-Embroidered Accessories: From scarves to jewelry, the skull motif is a recurring emblem.
- The Kooples Sport Line: Launched in 2012, this line offers a more casual, athleisure-inspired take on the brand’s core aesthetic.
Collaborations
The Kooples has engaged in several notable collaborations:
- Pete Doherty: In 2011, the British rocker co-designed a capsule collection, infusing his personal style into the brand’s offerings.
- Emily Ratajkowski: In 2017, the model and actress collaborated on a handbag line, blending her modern sensibilities with The Kooples’ edgy design.
- Puma: A partnership that resulted in a range of sneakers combining athletic functionality with The Kooples’ signature style.
Legacy
Since its inception, The Kooples has carved a niche by merging gender-fluid fashion with a rock-inspired ethos. Its innovative marketing, featuring real couples, challenged traditional advertising norms and resonated with a younger, fashion-forward audience. The brand’s commitment to blending masculine and feminine elements has influenced contemporary fashion dialogues around gender and style.
The Future
Under Verdoso’s ownership, The Kooples is poised to expand its global footprint while staying true to its core identity.Future plans include exploring sustainable practices, diversifying product lines, and enhancing digital retail experiences to meet the evolving demands of the modern consumer.
