Many moons ago, I was applying to be in a trade show and the application asked for celebrities who wear KAD clothing. As I was literally just starting out, I couldn’t name anyone. I thought the question was kind of shallow and quite frankly a bit gross- I’m not into “celebrity culture”— especially not celebrity just for the sake of celebrity. I honestly couldn’t pick a Kardashian out of a line-up and I’m happy to know nothing about the lives of the rich and famous- it’s just not my scene.

BUT That got me thinking- who WOULD I be excited about wearing KAD? There are artists, creators and activists in this world whose work and values I truly admire, who inspire me to design and create the best work I can- and who I think make the world a better place for us all. Even though I really didn’t love this ask on the application I thought well I can decide what makes someone a “celebrity” in my eyes- and maybe we can shift this conversation even a tiny bit- and give a bit more authenticity and meaning to the picture.

Claudia was one of the first peeps who came to mind- I have been a fan of her music since she started performing with Dan- we went to their concerts when our kids were little, and I just LOVE her style, her voice and her positive vibes. So I reached out to her and asked if I could send her something and if she would mind if I listed her in the application as my celebrity of choice… and really the rest is history!

Claudia in the Ruby Dress and Dan in the Claude Shirt in matching Pink Chevron print

Since then Claudia has modelled many KAD styles with panache and glamour! Dan too has become an incredible KAD model and one of my absolute favourite things is when they twin in their KAD pieces. SO GOOD!!! Dream team. Claudia continues to inspire and amaze me with her incredible work and gorgeous voice- and I am SO HONOURED and thrillllled to have her modelling KAD clothing. She’s a force for good and justice and creativity in this world and who better to personify the KAD brand? 

Claudia in the Shary Dress in Navy Zigzag

1. What are your fave shoes?

My favorite shoes... Ha! That's a hard question to answer, I go through phases. Sometimes the occasion calls for slides, flats or mules, while other times it's calling for a platform or wedge. This summer I lived in my Reef Water Vista platform sandals. Not only are they super comfortable, they’re waterproof! 

Yes...you heard me correctly. 

I wore them everywhere!

Brunch? Check! 

Beach? Check! 

On the stage for some of our shows? 

Double check! 

They look great, feel great and work in most settings where toes are invited. 

2. Please tell us a public figure you admire and why!

My most admirable human is Sarah Vaughan. Not only was she one of the most influential jazz vocalists in history, she commanded respect in any circle she was in - whether she was on the bandstand with the guys or hanging with women at the salon, she could hold her own in any space. The first time I heard her sing, my world opened up. I‘d never heard such a sound in my life and her voice stirred up an undeniable desire to learn more…what is this JAZZ? 

I am forever grateful for the legacy of creativity and musical invention that she left for all of us.

3. What are you watching/reading/listening to right now?

The Summer Olympics stayed in full rotation at our place. There was so much to be excited about every day. I LOVED the table tennis matches and Women's gymnastics. There's something deeply moving about watching the greatest athletes on the planet put everything out there for us to feel and see.

I was also inspired by the crowds in the stands singing together. Even with all the crazy happening in the world today, we can still see how music unifies us all.

4. Your fave fashion tip/hack?

One of my favorite accessories of all times is the beloved head wrap. This versatile piece of clothing can make any hairstyle pop. The history behind the head wrap is deep and vast, and wearing it not only elevates my style but it also elevates my mood too. The wrap has come to my rescue on more than one occasion when I was out of ideas and needed a lift.

Website address: www.danandclaudia.com

Social Media handles: @danandclaudiazanes

(Facebook and IG)

Claudia's soap making handle is: @cleosoaps on IG and Facebook. 

Website: www.cleosoaps.com

Claudia's fall release will go live on Saturday Sept 7th 

Thank you so so so much for this incredible read Claudia! And congratulations to you and Dan on your new record!