A Man With Sole: The Impact Of Kenneth Cole

Fashion Designer Kenneth Cole and wife Maria at
DOC FEST NYC PREMIERE OF “A Man With Sole: 
THE IMPACT OF KENNETH COLE”

When one initially thinks of fashion it would be hard to imagine the impact of its’ effects on just the physical appearance, without taking into account the influence that clothes have over other aspects. Clothes are made not only to cover us when we present ourselves to the world, but also to express ourselves in our own way in the world.

The way that we feel can be projected by the clothes that we wear. Hence, attire can have a psychological, social, spiritual and emotional effect within our communities. “A MAN WITH SOLE: THE IMPACT OF KENNETH COLE”documentary exudes this phenomenon.

Fashion Designer Kenneth Cole and director Dori Bernstein 
at the DOC FEST NYC PREMIERE 
OF “A Man With Sole: THE IMPACT OF KENNETH COLE”

Kenneth Cole is a man that not only used shoes and clothing as a conduit to challenge the status quo’s way of thinking but also to provide solutions to current social problems that exist and that are yet to come.

Fashion Designer Kenneth Cole and daughter Catie Cole 
at the DOC FEST NYC PREMIERE 
OF “A Man With Sole: THE IMPACT OF KENNETH COLE”

An entrepreneur that built his brand as an innovative daring risk taker that departed from his father’s establishment to make his own lane, truly has a vested interest in seeing informed societal changes and used his brand and resources to establish this.

Concerned by the inactions of politicians and policymakers during the HIV/AIDS health pandemic during the 1980’s and 1990’s, Kenneth Cole used his “productions” to make people think by using controversial word play on larger than life billboards and t-shirts to catch the attention of the community to do something, and not just stand by and let those affected suffer in silence.

Kenneth Cole’s activism during this era made such a monumental impact that he was catapulted into a continual social spotlight that ignited important conversations that were the impetus for radical change and social awareness for people that needed it the most.

Now forty years later, Kenneth Cole is still a force in fashion and activism that continues to research the next causes that need his attention.

Make sure you watch this must see documentary, A MAN WITH SOLE: THE IMPACT OF KENNETH COLE at DOC FEST NYC.

“Fusing cause and commerce early on, Cole created a new, inventive and daring advertising style that became a global phenomenon. The pioneering ads were culturally relevant, deliberately cause-ridden and less about the product, focusing on the values of the people who wished to wear the brand. They gave voice to urgent issues such as AIDS, human rights, homelessness, social justice and gun control. Cole has always believed that respectful controversy is necessary for positive social change.

A true pioneer in corporate responsibility and certainly a businessman who leads with a purpose, the documentary is a celebration of Cole’s enduring legacy of combining style with social conscience.

While fighting tirelessly for positive social change, Kenneth continued to evolve KCP as the business of fashion underwent seismic transformation. Kenneth Cole Productions is still standing tall and strong 40 years later because the company is energized and invigorated by change. Their ability to adapt and evolve in response to market and consumer needs has kept them relevant and forward-moving.

Kenneth’s fierce, high-risk commitment to caring as much for ‘what people stand for…not just what they stand in’….has been the hallmark of his name and brand ever since. Now after four decades of persuasive and impactful campaigns and initiatives, Kenneth Cole is using his blueprint for social impact to eradicate the stigma around mental health. Formed during the pandemic, the Mental Health Coalition is a consortium of leading mental health organizations, advocacy groups, digital platforms, business leaders and celebrities who have joined forces to help people everywhere access the services they desperately need.

More than just a global fashion icon, footwear designer Kenneth Cole has put cause before commerce for 40 years, driven by heart and ‘sole.’ Undoubtedly a trendsetter, Cole inspired and mobilized cultural norms and perceptions for the better as a pioneer of corporate social action; he advocated for social causes — from HIV/AIDS and homelessness to LGBTQIA+ rights and mental health — through his groundbreaking advertising campaigns.”