Established in 2009, SAAKO is a Barcelona-based global lifestyle brand that produces stylish accessories made from re-usable fabrics.
The accessory line has enjoyed rapid success – since national features in the Daily Candy and the TODAY Show, SAAKO immediately attracted buyer’s worldwide and publications like WWD and VOGUE. Sold in over 200 stores in 20 countries worldwide, including the MOMA, URBAN OUTFITTERS, Tate, V&A Museum and Opening Ceremony.
Two award-winning graphic designers, Inês Brito and Joana Gouveia reinvented an old Portuguese industry by ‘up-cycling’ the excess fabrics into beautiful, designer accessories. Near their native town, garment factories produce and cut the fabrics used in many of Europe’s largest fashion houses. The material is only available in limited supply. Therefore, a customer can be assured that their item is unique and not mass produced. Their pieces are animated and ever-changing. They ‘re tactile and earthy; vibrant; Mediterranean, and beg to be touched. Each necklace is designed by the duo and handmade by a tightly knit production team.
As Saako’s popularity grew, so did the demands of expanding a business. Ines and Joana needed to focus on their design talents. The team became global and added American, Oakley Johnson and Spanish native, Ana Capel. While residing in Barcelona, Oakley obtained his MBA and worked in e-commerce. The Saako girls brought him on board to manage operations and growth.
Hailing from Barcelona, Ana was recruited to grow Saako’s brand and sales in Europe and Asia. She’s a gifted art-director and stylist with meticulous knowledge of European styles and trends.
In November, 2013 – SAAKO was accepted to the infamous Runway incubator, located at the Twitter headquarters in San Francisco, CA. Runway not only provides an amazing work space and showroom facility for the brand – it offers strategic introductions to Fortune 500 companies and informative events with investors and industry leaders.
