By Angela Antonello
Fashion has power. Industry powerhouses like Tommy Hilfiger, Donna Karan and TOMS can create impactful educational opportunities both on and off the runway. This type of support for a cause doesn’t just come from luxury designers and mainstream brands. Meet Central New York entrepreneur Kelly Kinahan, whose K.K. Discovers, LLC melds fashion with philanthropy.
Kinahan’s mantra is “do what you love.” Her inspiration started with a visit to San Jose del Cabo, Mexico, where she was inspired by a local designer, the collaboration began, and the first PRO*JECT LOVE yoga bag was born. The meaning behind the name is twofold. PRO*JECT LOVE, in the form of a noun, means a collaborative design made from love, or, as a verb, a movement to love to one another. The meaning behind the logo is mirrored after her tattoo: it’s her “one love.” The circle represents the world, her hope is that when we all come together and share our love and light we can then create one unified “heart.” Spreading awareness is her mission and her vision is to have an impact not only in our local community, but across borders and oceans, to create positive change throughout the world.
Kinahan’s work supports a number of local charities. Ten percent of all STRONGER apparel sales are donated to Vera House of Syracuse. The popular Black and White Signature Logo line currently supports Ophelia’s Place, whose message is “Every Body Is Beautiful.”
And Kinahan is happy to support other causes, as well. K.K. Discovers Pro*Ject LoVe offers non-profits marketing services through developing apparel and merchandise using their logo. The ideas are endless, one option is to replace the “O” in words such as: HOPE, LOVE, COURAGE, or JOURNEY. The color of the logo can also be customized to reflect the cause it is associated with. A rainbow logo to support LGBTQ non-profits is also available.
Pro*Ject LoVe apparel is available at two local locations, The Fashion Rescue 911 Boutique in Baldwinsville and Hot House Brewing at Barone Gardens in Cicero. You can also visit the website kkdiscovers.com. Spread love and light by sharing your photos in your favorite Pro*Ject LoVe apparel on K.K Discovers Facebook and Instagram pages.
Giving a gift that “gives” even more than the actual item makes both the gift’s giver and receiver feel a part of something greater.
Angela Antonello owns Fashion Rescue 911 Fashion Truck & Boutique, located at 52 Oswego St., Baldwinsville; (315) 857-6690. Hours are noon to 7 p.m. Wednesday and Thursday, noon to 6 p.m. Friday and 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday.
