Urban Zen Collaboration for Haiti

Summer 2019

On a trip to Haiti, Kenneth Cole and Donna Karan designed a collection of Gentle Souls in collaboration with the local factory Pasquale Théard Créations. Each pair is handcrafted in Haiti. In 2010, both designers witnessed the catastrophic earthquake that hit Haiti – a country that was already home to one of the most underserved
communities in the world. Since then, they have looked for ways to support the ongoing effort towards change and growth. In this case by generating jobs, creating collaborations, and empowering artisans. These shoes provide more than the refined comfort Gentle Souls is known for; they give us a connection to Haiti’s rich artisan culture and the limitless strength, courage and capacity of the Haitian people.