Meet the Makers

When Tyeisha Delk founded KIC NYC, her vision was clear: to create a brand that made a statement and empowered individuals to embrace their authenticity. What began as a small operation in her apartment has grown into a vibrant business producing customized camo pants, jackets, t-shirts, hats, and bags.

“I started off with a jacket, an iron, and vinyl in my home,” Tyeisha recalls. But as she invested in additional machinery—like an embroidery machine, a DTG machine (which can print designs directly onto fabric), and a heat press—Tyeisha outgrew her apartment and needed to find a new space. She found a studio at the Brooklyn Navy Yard, a space with natural lighting that allows her to experiment and develop her creations.

KIC NYC is a reflection of Tyeisha’s belief in the power of self-expression. “KIC is about your authenticity,” she explains. “It’s important to be comfortable being you, and that’s what I want to bring out in the clothing I create. If more people embraced their uniqueness, the world would be a much more vibrant place.”

The brand offers a wide range of styles, from standout jackets to one-of-a-kind outerwear. Tyeisha’s creative process often involves sourcing base items, such as jackets, and transforming them with custom embellishments and designs. “I want to offer sizes from extra small to 3X without compromising price,” she says. “Certain things I cut and sew myself, and I handle embroidery and printing right here in the studio.”

As a one-woman operation, Tyeisha manages every aspect of KIC NYC, but she’s not entirely alone. The Brooklyn Navy Yard provides her with interns, giving her the opportunity to mentor the next generation of creators. “The interns love coming to work here,” she shares. “I have a Wall Street background, so I’m not sending them for coffee. They’re here to learn, create, and enjoy the process.”

One of the most significant challenges Tyeisha faces is balancing her full-time job with the demands of her business. “I want the freedom to be my own boss,” she admits. “I still work a full-time job, and it’s tough to juggle everything, but I’m driven by the vision of building something greater.”

Looking to the future, Tyeisha dreams of expanding KIC NYC into a creative hub where young designers can bring their ideas to life. “I want a huge factory with loads of machines, where designers can come in and create everything they need to compete with bigger brands. Eventually, I envision a boutique-style department store where these designers can showcase and sell their collections.”

Tyeisha’s dedication to staying in New York City is rooted in the unique resources and inspiration the city offers. “New York is the hub,” she says. “If I need something, I can get it delivered tomorrow. The talent, the inspiration—everything is here. I wouldn’t want to leave just because rent might be cheaper elsewhere.”

As the manufacturing landscape shifts, Tyeisha advocates for more support for small manufacturers like herself. “Government funding is crucial,” she says. “We need the tools to maintain that handcrafted touch while also improving efficiency. Small manufacturers have a big impact, and we need to be recognized for the value we bring.”

Explore Tyeisha Delk’s bold pieces at the KIC NYC website.