K.Jacques

s creativity and durability, offering collections that evolve with trends while maintaining authenticity and comfort. Recognized as a Living Heritage Company (Entreprise du Patrimoine Vivant) since 2010, K.Jacques embodies French savoir-faire and the art de vivre of Saint-Tropez, favored historically by artists and celebrities. The family legacy continues with descendants of the founders managing the company, preserving its artisanal values and commitment to quality.

Philosophy

K.Jacques is dedicated to durability, quality craftsmanship, and timeless elegance. The brand values authenticity, simplicity, and comfort, ensuring each sandal is handmade with meticulous attention to detail. It emphasizes preserving French artisanal heritage and creating products that age beautifully, reflecting a balance between tradition and modernity. Family legacy and sustainable longevity guide the brand’s approach, with a focus on creating sandals that accompany customers for years.

Sustainability

Manufacturing: 100% made in France in the family-run workshop in Saint-Tropez, preserving local artisanal expertise. Materials: Use of full-grain, thick natural leather with exclusive colors and expert tanning processes; soles made of double thick leather sewn with robust Irish linen thread. Durability: Sandals are designed for longevity and repairability, with a 46-step handcrafted production process ensuring quality and comfort that improves with age. Commitment: The brand is committed to preserving French savoir-faire and producing sustainable, timeless products that resist fast fashion trends.

Founders

Jacques Keklikian, Background: Armenian refugee, self-taught shoemaker who crafted and designed the original K.Jacques sandals in Saint-Tropez starting in 1933.. Elise Keklikian, Background: Armenian refugee, co-founder who managed sales and customer relations, contributing to the brand's early growth and naming of sandal models.

Background

Founded in 1933 in Saint-Tropez by Jacques and Elise Keklikian, K.Jacques began as a modest workshop producing custom leather sandals. The brand quickly gained recognition among artists and celebrities frequenting Saint-Tropez. The Keklikian family expanded the business over generations, with their children and grandchildren continuing the artisanal tradition. The workshop remains in Saint-Tropez, where sandals are crafted through a 46-step process involving hand-sewing, gluing, and finishing. The brand has designed over 2,500 models, maintaining a minimalist yet creative style. It holds the French state label 'Living Heritage Company' since 2010, underscoring its cultural and artisanal significance.

History

Jacques and Elise Keklikian opened their first store and workshop at 39 rue Allard, Saint-Tropez, in 1933. Jacques designed and handcrafted the original Tropezienne sandal, while Elise managed sales and customer relations. Their children—Liliane, Georges, and Bernard—joined the business, bringing modern touches and expanding the brand. The family named many sandal models, embedding stories and heritage into the catalogue. The workshop moved in 2009 to Route des Plages to strengthen production capacity. Jacques passed away in 1989 and Elise in 1997, leaving the family legacy to their descendants who continue to uphold the brand’s values. K.Jacques sandals have been worn by iconic figures such as Picasso, Cocteau, Brigitte Bardot, and Romy Schneider, symbolizing French elegance and the art of living.