On the cover of DJournal
Timeless, high-quality, modern and feminine - this is what PIO O'KAN, the Düsseldorf-based family business for couture and prêt-à-porter, stands for. Founded by designer
and entrepreneur Helga Grünwoldt-Okan, Philippo Okan is now the second generation of the family to manage the balancing act between the high art of tailoring and luxurious prêt-à-porter fashion alongside his mother. The owner-managed family business is one of the few in Germany dedicated to excellence in craftsmanship. Starting with exclusive couture models, a high-quality prêt-à-porter collection has now been added to the range for six years.
Although he was born into a fashion career, so to speak, Philippo Okan initially took a different path. After studying at the University of St. Andrews in Scotland, he worked for a global logistics company for a long time. Then, in his early 30s, he returned to his roots in Düsseldorf and joined PIO O'KAN, the family business founded by his mother, as Managing Director. Even though his path was often rocky, he has never regretted his decision. "Regardless of the industry, I wanted to be able to work creatively and entrepreneurially from an early stage. I want to develop something myself and have the opportunity to make an impact." He also says of his debut in fashion: "It was exactly the right decision for me to further develop our product range alongside couture and make it accessible to new customer groups."
Today, he is primarily responsible for expanding the brand and can now point to a number of high-quality retail outlets in Germany and Europe that stock PIO O'KAN. His best advisor was and is his mother Helga Grünwoldt-Okan, with her many years of experience as an entrepreneur. Together with designer Hawe Klein and studio manager Mirjam Zwick, the quartet is setting new standards with the personal shopping experience in the Düsseldorf salon on the famous Königsallee. Philippo Okan and his team ensure the success of the textile future. When he's not looking after the salon, the passionate golfer can also be found on the green or skiing.
(c) DJournal
