A Man with Sole: The Impact of Kenneth Cole | WATCH DOCS

The New York designer best known for his luxury footwear is also one of fashion’s most polarizing figures. Since bursting onto the scene in the 1980s, Kenneth Cole has collaborated with many of the world’s leading fashion icons. Yet his true fame stems not from any single collection, but from the bold social campaigns he spearheaded, often enlisting A-list celebrities to amplify his message. By using fashion as a platform for social engagement, Cole launched groundbreaking initiatives addressing issues such as AIDS awareness, get out the vote campaigns, and disability rights. A fascinating figure who bridges the seemingly incompatible worlds of business and activism, he has often been pilloried for blurring the line between philanthropy and promotion. Still, it is hard to deny his impact: Kenneth Cole was among the first to bring challenging social themes to mass audiences. In doing so, he changed the face of pop culture and marketing forever.

Konrad Wirkowski