Discover the Handmade Marvels of Kingdom of Wow: An Ethical Footwear Brand from Cambodia
Nestled in the heart of Cambodia, Kingdom of Wow has emerged as a beacon of sustainable and ethical craftsmanship, creating unique handmade footwear that combines comfort, style, and tradition. Founded from a deep-seated desire to preserve an amazing handmade product and a passion for ethical production, this brand is making waves both locally and internationally.
From Tradition to Modern Comfort
“I’ve worn hand-crocheted wool slippers for as long as I can remember,” shares the founder. The journey began with a simple yet powerful idea: to keep alive a traditional craft. When the founder’s long-time slipper maker retired, the opportunity arose to take forward her concept. By tweaking the design and using a rich blend of New Zealand wool and sustainable bamboo yarn, Kingdom of Wow has created a product that stands out in the market. The slippers, crafted with a supple leather sole and designed to provide a unique “heel-hugging” experience, are made entirely by hand by a dedicated all-female team in Cambodia.
A Dream in the Making
Starting with just two part-time crocheters in November 2015, Kingdom of Wow has grown significantly. “Our dream is to continue to grow and bring more cozy comfort to the world while offering more ethical jobs in Cambodia along the way,” the founder explains. The journey has seen the company through various stages of product development, based on customer feedback, leading to the beloved model available today. Recently, the company secured new investments, enabling the construction of a new workshop to meet increasing demand.
Crafting a Positive Work Environment
One of the standout aspects of Kingdom of Wow is its commitment to a respectful and balanced work culture. “Starting my own business was the best way for me to create the kind of working environment I wanted to be in,” the founder reflects. This includes a company culture that values employees, promotes from within, and ensures there is space for fun and laughter. Stories of personal growth within the team are abundant, with staff members advancing to new roles and responsibilities, illustrating the supportive and nurturing environment.
Unique Footwear for Every Occasion
Why should you choose Kingdom of Wow’s products? The answer lies in their uniqueness and comfort. “Our slippers are quite unique; handmade from natural materials to shape to the form of your feet,” the founder states. With thermoregulating properties of wool and bamboo, these slippers keep your feet warm in winter and prevent sweating. The heel-hugging design and supple leather sole add to the sturdiness and flexibility, making them a perfect choice for cozy comfort. Additionally, their espadrilles, a tried-and-tested classic, have been innovatively redesigned to enhance comfort and accommodate various preferences.
Community-Centric and Environmentally Conscious
Kingdom of Wow is not just about making great footwear; it’s about making a difference. The company provides sustainable employment and living wages in Cambodia and commits 1% of its profits to community initiatives. These include sponsoring a local children’s football club and supporting NGO fundraising activities. Moreover, the brand offsets its carbon footprint through local environmental projects like Wildlife Alliance, with an annual carbon footprint report published on their website.
A Love for Cambodia
The founder’s connection to Cambodia runs deep. Initially moving to Siem Reap for a 2.5-year stint, the allure of the country turned a temporary stay into a nearly decade-long love affair. “We love Cambodia and living in Siem Reap,” the founder says. The gentle atmosphere, friendly people, and the unique challenges of doing business in Cambodia create a dynamic environment that keeps them inspired and motivated.
Kingdom of Wow is more than just a footwear brand; it’s a story of tradition, community, and ethical craftsmanship. Discover their cozy, handmade products and join them in their journey to bring comfort and sustainability to the world.
How to find Kingdom of Wow?
Contact info:
Workshop is opened on Mon-Sat 8:30AM to 4:30 PM
Location: Wat Polanka Rd, Siem Reap City
KH Website: Kingdom of Wow
Instagram: @kingdom.of.wow
Facebook: @kingdom.of.wow
Tiktok: kingdom.of.wow