Our Design Inspiration

Origin of Our Name

It all started on a fine summer day in a canoe, truth be told. The idea of Colicoco, that is. The name itself dates back to when I was a little girl. Still, my mother occasionally uses the name -- and will do so whether I am five, thirty-five, or sixty-five. What's in a name? You can define it by how you live up to it. Colicoco, the person, strives to exude independence with dashes of youth and playfulness thrown in. Colicoco, the website, aims for the same.

Conceptual Models

Ottoman Empire

The Ottomans were among the first to use recurring motifs to convey a dramatic and distinct visual language that became identified with their empire's power. Prominently displayed on royal robes (kaftans), these motifs featured articulated geometric and floral designs including stylized carnations, rosebuds, tulips, and vines. Given such a rich heritage in textile design and symbolism, Colicoco chose to emulate one of these motifs, the nestling crescents, which conveniently resemble three chatting patrons, as its own emblem of distinction.

Ellsworth Kelly

In designing Colicoco's website, I wanted something that would standout, as any outfit should. I took refuge in Kelly's paintings, which tend to preserve and intensify memories of things seen swiftly. One of his works, "Blue on White" is both lyrical and forceful, a huge painting that feels delicate. At first, the blue shape seems to dominate the white background. But just as quickly, the angular edges of the white appear to cut into the blue. In doing so, Kelly creates colors and shapes so intense that they are like three-dimensional objects.