Spring/Summer has come early with By Malene Birger. It is all about strong colours and prints. Get inspiration from her S/S12 fashion show.
Scandinavian by name stylish by nature
Wednesday 28 December 2011
Tuesday 29 November 2011
The Killing 2
This week end we saw Sarah Lund get back into the icon fairisle knit jumper again after wearing a plain red knit.
Get the Nordic knit look from Kakao by K
Thursday 24 November 2011
Win a luxury break!
We need the help of all our loyal followers.
We would LOVE for you to nominate us for the Telegraph Best Small Shop award 2011 in the category Best for women's fashion. All the information you need is the shop name Kakao by K and the Street Thistle Street and town Edinburgh.
If you nominate us you will automatically enter into a prize draw for a luxury break.
We would really appreciate your vote.
Love K
Monday 21 November 2011
The Danes are coming………..again
Denmark is very trendy at the moment, boasting the world’s best restaurant Noma and chef Rasmus Kofoed owner of Geranium, the best foreign language film at this year’s Oscars In A Better World, the award-winning cult detective drama The Killing 2 (currently keeping BBC4 viewers transfixed) and some of the world’s top fashion designers. Not bad for a little country that covers only 0.03% of the earth’s surface
With the finger on the fashion pules we recently picked up the Danish jewellery collection Hultquist. I loved the elegance and simple designs behind the collection. The collection is designed by owner Anne Hultquist and handmade in her studio in Copenhagen.
We thought our customers would like it, but it turns out they love it, the first delivery has nearly sold out, the great news is that we are placing an order that will be in before Christmas.
Be sure not to miss out!
Friday 23 September 2011
Newsletter
Wednesday 27 July 2011
Inspiration for Noa Noa's A/W collection
"Too much of a good thing can be wonderful" – Mae West once said. With Noa Noa's new Autumn 11 collection this is indeed true.
Browse and explore the collection with an existing combination of modern design and traditional crafts. The collection is build on the theme MY HOME – a calm contrast to the busy world around us.
For Lea Dam Jensen, Head of design at Noa Noa, the big sweaters in thick qualities are some of her favorites. She says: " We have created a collection of designs that work great individually and even more inspiring in full outfits. Pimp up your grey autumn day with a bit of sparkling sequins and jewellery. There are lots of pieces that you will keep in your wardrobe for several seasons as your favorite items."
Browse the Noa Noa collection
Thursday 14 July 2011
We are so Excited!
Check out The Pulse Magazine this month, we made the front cover with the limited edition Madam Butterfly grey dress, by Catriona Garforth.
Wednesday 6 July 2011
The Duchess of Cambridge surprised fashion watchers
Exciting News!
Kate indulges in Danish fashion label By Malene Birger (available in Kakao by K) on the Royal tour to Canada.This is the first time the Duchess wears non-British designer on Royal tour. We think the creme silk-linen dress was a fine fashion choice for the Duchess it looks smart and elegant.
Kate indulges in Danish fashion label By Malene Birger (available in Kakao by K) on the Royal tour to Canada.This is the first time the Duchess wears non-British designer on Royal tour. We think the creme silk-linen dress was a fine fashion choice for the Duchess it looks smart and elegant.
Wednesday 15 June 2011
Kakao Sale Now On!
Pop into Kakao and check out our Spring Summer Sale!
Click here to browse the sale online!
Click here to browse the sale online!
Model Wears: By Malene Birger T-shirt WAS £49 NOW £35
Tuesday 7 June 2011
20% WEB OFFER
Kakao by K are excited to announce the launch of an exclusive online offer of 20% off all online sales to our Blog fans,before the 19th June.
Simply sign up to our newsletter by emailing girls@kakao.co.uk to get the 20% off code
or visit our website to sign up.
Monday 6 June 2011
Wednesday 27 April 2011
Nyhavn (New Harbour) in Copenhagen
Great photos of lovely Nyhavn (New Habour) in Copenhagen this easter Weekend. It is a great place relax and enjoy the sun.
Nyhavn is a 17th century waterfront, canal and entertainment district in Copenhagen, Denmark. Stretching from Kongens Nytorv to the harbour front just south of the Royal Playhouse, it is lined by brightly coloured 17th and early 18th century townhouses and bars, cafes and restaurants. Serving as a "heritage harbour", the canal has many historical wooden ships.
Danish author Hans Christian Andersen lived at Nyhavn 18 for some years.
Nyhavn is a 17th century waterfront, canal and entertainment district in Copenhagen, Denmark. Stretching from Kongens Nytorv to the harbour front just south of the Royal Playhouse, it is lined by brightly coloured 17th and early 18th century townhouses and bars, cafes and restaurants. Serving as a "heritage harbour", the canal has many historical wooden ships.
Danish author Hans Christian Andersen lived at Nyhavn 18 for some years.
A Little Mention for Kakao by K
We got a little mention on the Guardian Edinburgh blog yesterday here is the story
Why Scandinavians are setting up shop in Edinburgh
New Town based Danish shopkeeper Karina Baldorf looks at modern design in the city and discusses how Edinburgh's Scandinavian business owners support each other
The first time I came to Edinburgh was with a school trip. I was 18 – it was only the second time I had left Denmark. I remember noticing the difference in the architecture – it seemed like such a dark city, shrouded in fog and it felt Medieval compared to the light, bright buildings on Stroeget at home. I particularly love the hills here – Denmark is completely flat which is better for cycling but not so scenic.
I was already interested in clothes and vividly recall noticing the difference in the street fashion between Denmark and Scotland – and also the similarities in the modern, chic Bohemian style. If you like The White Company or even, Ghost, you're bound to like most of Denmark's top designers.
The two countries share many common bonds and lots of my friends who came on the trip said how at home they felt in the Scottish capital. Given the longstanding trading links between the countries, ever since the Vikings set sail for the east coast of Scotland, it's hardly surprising. Although the UK's greatest Scandinavian import is Sandi Toksvig, the advent of Ikea, Bang & Olufsen, and Nokia in the Scottish market shows how much the two cultures have in common.
I had no idea that I would end up living here but then, I transferred from Copenhagen University to the social policy course at Stirling University – I simply felt drawn to the place. Immediately, I loved living in Scotland but I wanted to do something creative.
Hosting local talent in my shop
As Scandinavian style became more acceptable in the UK I realised how easy it would be to translate the clean, Danish design lines favoured by clothes designers in Copenhagen for a Scottish audience. I am the first person to specialise in Scandinavian designers in Scotland and sometimes, in the UK. Of course, that affinity in design works the other way round – my countrymen love Christopher Kane and high end cashmere. But cutting-edge designers like By Malene Birger and Bruuns Bazaar have proved popular and easy to assimilate into the Scottish look.
I'm really committed to promoting young designers and make an effort to showcase jewellery designers and new faces in fashion from both sides of the North Sea. Having a shop now I can host private viewings for up and coming names who haven't yet launched their career.
This time of year is particularly exciting because of the output from the Edinburgh College of Art – both in the textile, fashion and jewellery departments. I think it's one of the best colleges in the world and it's really exciting to be so close and to be able to offer a real hand up to new names in the industry.
Community
Although I miss Copenhagen I embrace my life here – trying to merge the two cultures in everything I do. I have a few Scandinavian friends who have businesses in Edinburgh and we form a close group that offers support when we're trying to bridge cultural differences.
We all have British partners so sometimes those cultural differences are personal as well as professional. One thing that strikes us all is how friendly and outgoing Scots are compared to Danish people. I suppose that's one of the main reasons that we all like it here so much.
Edinburgh College of Art's Fashion Show takes place between 4 and 6 May. I will be in the front row!
Originally from Copenhagen, Karina Baldorf moved to Edinburgh in 2001. She runs fashion boutique Kakao by K on Thistle Street, which stocks the best of local fashion design talent and specialist imported labels from her Danish homeland.
Why Scandinavians are setting up shop in Edinburgh
New Town based Danish shopkeeper Karina Baldorf looks at modern design in the city and discusses how Edinburgh's Scandinavian business owners support each otherThe first time I came to Edinburgh was with a school trip. I was 18 – it was only the second time I had left Denmark. I remember noticing the difference in the architecture – it seemed like such a dark city, shrouded in fog and it felt Medieval compared to the light, bright buildings on Stroeget at home. I particularly love the hills here – Denmark is completely flat which is better for cycling but not so scenic.
I was already interested in clothes and vividly recall noticing the difference in the street fashion between Denmark and Scotland – and also the similarities in the modern, chic Bohemian style. If you like The White Company or even, Ghost, you're bound to like most of Denmark's top designers.
The two countries share many common bonds and lots of my friends who came on the trip said how at home they felt in the Scottish capital. Given the longstanding trading links between the countries, ever since the Vikings set sail for the east coast of Scotland, it's hardly surprising. Although the UK's greatest Scandinavian import is Sandi Toksvig, the advent of Ikea, Bang & Olufsen, and Nokia in the Scottish market shows how much the two cultures have in common.
I had no idea that I would end up living here but then, I transferred from Copenhagen University to the social policy course at Stirling University – I simply felt drawn to the place. Immediately, I loved living in Scotland but I wanted to do something creative.
Hosting local talent in my shop
As Scandinavian style became more acceptable in the UK I realised how easy it would be to translate the clean, Danish design lines favoured by clothes designers in Copenhagen for a Scottish audience. I am the first person to specialise in Scandinavian designers in Scotland and sometimes, in the UK. Of course, that affinity in design works the other way round – my countrymen love Christopher Kane and high end cashmere. But cutting-edge designers like By Malene Birger and Bruuns Bazaar have proved popular and easy to assimilate into the Scottish look.
I'm really committed to promoting young designers and make an effort to showcase jewellery designers and new faces in fashion from both sides of the North Sea. Having a shop now I can host private viewings for up and coming names who haven't yet launched their career.
This time of year is particularly exciting because of the output from the Edinburgh College of Art – both in the textile, fashion and jewellery departments. I think it's one of the best colleges in the world and it's really exciting to be so close and to be able to offer a real hand up to new names in the industry.
Community
Although I miss Copenhagen I embrace my life here – trying to merge the two cultures in everything I do. I have a few Scandinavian friends who have businesses in Edinburgh and we form a close group that offers support when we're trying to bridge cultural differences.
We all have British partners so sometimes those cultural differences are personal as well as professional. One thing that strikes us all is how friendly and outgoing Scots are compared to Danish people. I suppose that's one of the main reasons that we all like it here so much.
Edinburgh College of Art's Fashion Show takes place between 4 and 6 May. I will be in the front row!
Originally from Copenhagen, Karina Baldorf moved to Edinburgh in 2001. She runs fashion boutique Kakao by K on Thistle Street, which stocks the best of local fashion design talent and specialist imported labels from her Danish homeland.
Monday 25 April 2011
ROYAL WEDDING IN KAKAO BY K
In Kakao by K we will have wedding cake and bubbly on Friday the 29th to celebrate Kate and Will so pop in to celebrate with us.We will be opening at 2pm.
If you are in London on the day we recommend you booking a table at the Danish Restaurant Madsen for a Nodic twist to the day.
Here you will be served complimentary champagne and “kransekage"/marzipan biscuit for all diners AND the chance to win a traditional Danish wedding cake : a 22-ring high “Kransekage-tårn"/marzipan biscuit tower from their Danish Head chef, Esben.
All you have to do is reserve a table, have lunch or dinner at Madsen, enjoy your glass of champagne and “kransekage” and you’ll be participating in winning the tower of marzipan biscuit. They will draw the winner by the end of the day.
Here is a recepie for Kransekage from Trina Hahnemanns' cookbook "The Scandinavian Cookbook".
Kransekage - makes 24 biscuits
100g almonds
200g caster sugar
2 egg whites
500g homemade marzipan (see below)
200g dark chocolate
Homemade marzipan
500g blanched almonds
100g icing sugar, plus extra for kneading
50ml water
Whizz the almonds in a food processor and keep whizzing until they become a paste. Add the icing sugar, whizz again, then add the water and whizz again.
Take the marzipan out of the food processor and kneed it on a work surface dusted with icing sugar. The paste can be kept up to 2 weeks in he refrigerator.
Stir the almonds and sugar together in a food processor until finely mixed together. Add the egg and whizz until the mixture is smooth. Make sure the mixture does not get too.
Grate the marzipan and then blend it into the almond mixture. Put the mixture in a bowl when finished, cover it with and leave in the refrigerator until the next day.
Shape the mixture into 24 rectangular cakes about 2 cm wide an 6 cm.
Preheat the oven to 190°C. Place the cakes on a baking tray with baking paper and bake for 15-18 minutes. When done, leave to cool.
Melt the chocolate and then dip the bottom of each almond cake in the chocolate and leave to set on some baking paper.
Best enjoyed with a cup of coffee or tea!
Friday 22 April 2011
Thursday 21 April 2011
Ulitimate Desginer Traveling Wardrobe
Danish By Malene Birger's Spring/Summer collection is the perfect travel wardrobe, her chic and effortless stylish pieces will make packing easy whether you are off for a city break or a week in the sun.
A flowy Maxi dress is an essential pack as it is the height of chic and is perfect with sandals during the day, and heels and plenty of bangles in the evening. (Gema maxi dress £325)
A flowy Maxi dress is an essential pack as it is the height of chic and is perfect with sandals during the day, and heels and plenty of bangles in the evening. (Gema maxi dress £325)
This everyday outfit will take up no room in your suitcase, it is perfect for browsing the shops and markets in or throwing over your bikini.
(Laisa top £155, Mowa shorts £125)
Be a pretty picture in this stunning vintage inspired dress, it is perfect for keeping cool in the sun. (Isabea dress £215)
(Laisa top £155, Mowa shorts £125)
Be a pretty picture in this stunning vintage inspired dress, it is perfect for keeping cool in the sun. (Isabea dress £215)
This dijon coloured dress will be a style saviour, it has a nod to the 70's trend. It will be so easy to just trow on with sandals. (Falupe dress £175)
Thursday 7 April 2011
What to wear???
The invitations starting to fill the mailbox can only mean one thing, the wedding season is coming.
It is always difficult to find out what to wear to weather you are a bridesmaid or wedding guest. In Kakao by K we have a wide selection of dresses fit for both bridesmaids and the wedding guest.
One thing is sure with a dress from Kakao you will not only look great but you can be certain that no one else will have the same dress as we only carry a few in each style to make sure you get something unique. Here are a few of our favourite dress available in store and on our e-boutique.
It is always difficult to find out what to wear to weather you are a bridesmaid or wedding guest. In Kakao by K we have a wide selection of dresses fit for both bridesmaids and the wedding guest.
One thing is sure with a dress from Kakao you will not only look great but you can be certain that no one else will have the same dress as we only carry a few in each style to make sure you get something unique. Here are a few of our favourite dress available in store and on our e-boutique.
Tuesday 5 April 2011
Fit for a bride!
I have just wrapped and sent off this amazing dress by Malene Birger for a wedding photo shoot in New York with 21st Century Kilts, I can’t wait to see photos off the Bride jumping in to a yellow cab with it on. The dress is available on our online boutique www.kakao.co.uk and in store just ideal for a bride or her bridesmaids. 
Photography by Jay Golian Elemental Photography Styling by Christina Golian, Elemental Photography Assistant: Erin Leigh Shepherd Make-up artist: Lynne Mills at EyeCandy Hair stylist: Gwen Avinou at McKenzie Hair Design Model: Fredau Hoekstra
Photography by Jay Golian Elemental Photography Styling by Christina Golian, Elemental Photography Assistant: Erin Leigh Shepherd Make-up artist: Lynne Mills at EyeCandy Hair stylist: Gwen Avinou at McKenzie Hair Design Model: Fredau Hoekstra
Vogue cover girl
Gorgeous and chic Danish Freja Beha Erichsen has one out of the three covers for Vogue’s May "royal wedding" issue, this is Freja’s second Vogue cover in less than a year. Freja was discovered on the streets of her native Denmark by a modelling agent passing by in a taxi, and have now walked for the likes of Chanel, Dior, Gucci, Burberry, Alexander Wang, Prada. I’ll be watching out for modelling agents in taxis now…. … Think I’d need to grow longer legs though.
Love K
Thursday 31 March 2011
Style tip of the week
How to do…. the shirt
The shirt is big news this season ladies! It is no longer just for the office. It is nearly the weekend and Kakao by K can help you find the perfect weekend shirt.
This wardrobe stable will work with all your separates. For an evening out, accessorise with this season’s key items – a pair of block heels and an oversized clutch. Style your shirt with shorts for a chic evening look.
The shirt is big news this season ladies! It is no longer just for the office. It is nearly the weekend and Kakao by K can help you find the perfect weekend shirt.
This wardrobe stable will work with all your separates. For an evening out, accessorise with this season’s key items – a pair of block heels and an oversized clutch. Style your shirt with shorts for a chic evening look.
Soaked in Luxury creme shirt £55 click to shop
Chic grey shirt By Malene Birger £109
Classic blue shirt By Malene Birger £99 click to shop
Monday 21 March 2011
Denmark is where it's happening!
LOVE these pieces on Denmark and all things Danish in Saturday's Times and the Guardian .
The Danish crime series The Killing staring Sofie Gråbøl as Sarah Lund which is currently running on BBC 4 and has reached cult status in the UK, have started a thing that all things Danish are cool. In Kakao by K you can be sure to dress Danish and leave the shop with a bit of understated chic Danish style the series so beautifully shows.
The Danish crime series The Killing staring Sofie Gråbøl as Sarah Lund which is currently running on BBC 4 and has reached cult status in the UK, have started a thing that all things Danish are cool. In Kakao by K you can be sure to dress Danish and leave the shop with a bit of understated chic Danish style the series so beautifully shows.
Love K
Tuesday 15 March 2011
Saturday 19 February 2011
New addition to te Kakao by K portflio
Danish Soaked in Luxury has been added to the Kakao by K designer portfolio this Spring. Expect soft urban rock influences, retro country living, seaside resorts and colour plays melt together in a look that feels new and fresh.
Breton stripes, feminine butterflies and mini prints give life to the new season in an easygoing colour palette on smooth, soft and feminine fabrics. Draping effects and clever details give a sophisticated look that’s easy to wear whether you’re dressing for a Sunday brunch with friends, a late night date or simply a regular day at work.
Navy blue plays a central role as a base for this season’s colour palette and it is not missing in the Soaked in Luxury collection. Match navy with black gives this traditional colour a new edge. Grey continues as a key colour and looks great worn in a head to toe look, while soft pink, lavender, cream, strong pink and red work as a contrast to the base colours.
Soaked in Luxury is about being individual – being you – and achieving that by creating your own personal style.
We at Kakao think you are going to love Soaked in Luxury.
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