The Calico Ikati brand had its beginnings in 2015 on the trendy city streets and fashion markets of the Far East in Korea and Taiwan. The early success in Asia lead to a chance visit to South Africa by the company founder, Rachel, who quickly fell in love with Mzanzi’s 
style and energy. This resulted in Calico Ikati accessories officially reaching South African stores in 2017 when the brand’s signature aesthetic was reborn as a fusion of the inspiration of African spirit and Asian creative identity.  Rachel describes the story behind the brand 
name in her own words, “I’ve always loved animals but for silly reasons had a serious phobia of cats, until one day I rescued a 3 day old kitten that I found lost on the streets. Raising this beautiful Calico fur ball taught me to overcome my irrational fears and love unconditionally and the brand name honours her and I hope I can share a little bit of the joy she brought into my life with the world through our accessories.”