By Jeannie D
Some places have a magic about them: a feeling that you’ve uncovered something extraordinary. That’s exactly what it’s like stepping into Coast And Koi, the enchanting mini-souk in Sea Point, owned by the ever-inspiring artist, textile and fashion designer, Caryn Wilensky-Sherwin.
The moment you find it (and trust me, it feels like a discovery), you know you’re in for a treat. Inside, it’s a dreamland of bespoke shoes, intricately-crafted paglamas (glam PJs), and beautifully detailed kimonos and kaftans that whisper of adventure, artistry and timeless style. Every piece Caryn creates tells a story, blending craftsmanship with luxe glamour.
I recently spent a few glorious hours there and while playing dress-up in Caryn’s unique treasures, I asked her to tell me about her Coast And Koi journey.
BEHIND THE BRAND: An Interview with Caryn Wilensky:
On the inspiration behind the name… “It was a mistake at the printers, can you believe it? But the Koi fish is a lucky symbol so we decided to run with it and it’s been very good to us over the years.”
On how it all began… “I was running a ballet and dancewear production company but was feeling stifled by their purist intentions so started making fun fabric ballet pumps instead. Young Designers Emporium (YDE) snapped us up in 2002; and soon afterwards we showed at Design Indaba, which is what got the brand really known.”
On the spirit of the brand… “If Coast And Koi were an animal it would be a leopard: elegant, fierce, individual and adaptable. The brand’s signature prints, lush velvets and striking embellishments all echo this untamed but sophisticated spirit.”
On surreal fashion moments… “We have sold to royalty and done whole wardrobes and shoes for pop stars and Miss Worlds but, ahem, our clients are high-profile and, as much as I’d love to, we can’t name drop.”
On crafting one-of-a-kind wearable art… “In an era where speed dominates fashion, Coast And Koi is a love letter to slow, intentional creation. Craftsmanship is a language – a story of that gets woven into every stitch – that preserves history, culture and the human touch in a world that is sadly becoming ruled by machines.”
On the magic Coast And Koi formula… “Balance. Our shoes are built on three core pillars: artistry, structure and comfort. Every pair is carefully designed to mould to the foot, offering support without sacrificing style. Plush linings, carefully curated fabrics and years of expertise in fit ensure that you can wear your Coast and Koi shoes from a gallery opening to a late-night dance floor without every wanting to take them off.”
On where to shop the brand… “At the moment, we’re inundated with orders from Europe for their Spring/Summer season; but local customers can make an appointment to come and visit because we carry lots of styles in-studio and can create something wonderfully bespoke and completely personal for you. Or shop our unique collections at local stockists like Merchants On Long, The Silo Hotel, or any of the other hotels and game lodges in The Royal Portfolio.”
Want your own luxe piece of Coast And Koi?
To book your appointment with Cape Town fashion designer Caryn and experience the magic of Coast And Koi’s artisanal footwear, clothing, and accessories, email or DM the team via Instagram. But be warned… You’ll never want to leave.
