Hometown Heroes: Desiree Kohan

You wouldn't think that a degree in spiritual psychology would prepare you for a career in the world of fashion, but then you probably don't know Desiree Kohan. With a down-to-earth sensibility mixed with an eye for high fashion, Kohan has experienced a stylish life that most people dream of... and she's just getting started.

An avid adventurist who has trekked through the Amazon and traveled the Silk Road of Asia, Kohan finished up school at UCLA to travel to Milan where she was immediately snapped up by Prada's design group, hired as a trend forecaster. She continued forecasting for other high-end labels such as Marc Jacobs, Miu Miu and Gucci, traveling the world to get a feel for what was going to be The Next Big Thing. And The Next Big Thing in 2000 was Kohan, with her eveningwear collection called Goretti.

"I'm inspired by old and new," says Kohan. "I tend to visit my aunt's vintage clothing library for inspiration on certain necklines and fabrics or sewing techniques, but I also love to be inspired by modern simplicity and architectural lines. My biggest inspiration is my clients, as I design clothing thinking of all the different personal styles."

It was that sensibility that won Kohan fans like Nicole Kidman, Brittany Murphy and Naomi Watts. Fueled by her first line's success, Kohan launched her own signature boutique DES KOHAN in spring 2005, featuring a synthesis of her evolving personal style, and offerings from high-end designers mixed in with more affordable pieces. Among such recognizable names as Hussein Chalayan or Viktor and Rolf are rising stars like Guilia Persanti, the former designer of Miu Miu and Costume National. And then, of course, there's Kohan, featuring elegant tops, dresses, skirts, belts and jewelry.

"As a destination boutique I specifically target a customer base that doesn't just want denim and tank tops," Kohan insists. "A destination store it is exactly that – a destination. Clients come to us for help on styling items within their existing wardrobe or having us help them find a perfect cocktail/black tie dress – and we do all the tailoring so you never have to take an extra step."

Many of DES KOHAN's clients come to the store because of their world-class service, not to mention their amazing and stylish offerings – some of which are custom made just for the store. The result is a rabid fan following that makes DES KOHAN their one-stop shop for everything they need for that season, and seasons to come.

However, just because Kohan has an eye for trends that stand the test of time doesn't mean that she doesn't get excited over new designer offerings. Her current favorites include Victor & Rolf's spring line, but her favorite offering is one that's exclusive to her store.

"I am obsessed with the Annie Costello for Des KOHAN belts," Kohan admits. "I have never sold an accessory more than those belts. It transforms your entire wardrobe. Clients have not only bought them for themselves but are buying them for gifts! We are even drawing the various ways the four-way belt can be worn. All our stylists are pre-buying the belts for their clients... we can't keep them in the store!"

Somehow, we suspect Kohan won't have trouble finding something just as hot and stylish to replace them if she runs out. Considering her history, it's likely Kohan will be both predicting and setting trends for years to come.

The DES KOHAN boutique is located at 671 Cloverdale Ave., Los Angeles, CA 90036, 323.857.0200. Or, visit online at www.deskohan.com.