Company Information
After bursting on the scene in late 2004, Kathy Van Zeeland, who is co-president of her company,
is now in more than 1,300 stores nationwide.
In fact, her subdued signature prints and burnished metallic bags rank among the top two or
three brands, according to retailers. These stylish and functional pieces, priced under $100, allow
women to make a fashionable statement at a reasonable price.
Van Zeeland is no newcomer to the business. For nine years she was vice president of design at
a major corporation and was responsible for building the product that fueled the $200 million
sales peak.
With her unsurpassed eye for detail and exceptional style, Van Zeeland's line is becoming an
important lifestyle brand. She already has expanded from "must-have" handbags and small leather goods
to coordinated belts and sunglasses. Incidentally, Van Zeeland's husband,
Bruce Makowsky, is the company CEO and co-president.
And Van Zeeland's smart and sleek design inspiration doesn't stop with camouflage, ultrasuede and
signature print bags. Belts made with distressed fabrics and bold hardware retail from $48 to $68.
Embellished sunglasses are priced at $48. With the exception of sunwear (licensed to Lantis eyewear),
the design and manufacturing is handled in house, enabling all of the accessories to be cross
merchandised seamlessly.
Van Zeeland's success is due in part by her commitment to connect with her customers.
"I want to build a relationship with my customers. They know who I am -- and I know who they are.
I get so many emails from women who love what they've bought. They even send me pictures of how they
incorporate my pieces into their wardrobe," she says.
