Makia

Makia is a Helsinki clothing company founded in 2001 that designs functional Nordic apparel for men, women and children. Its simple designs are shaped by the cold, rainy northern climate and its harbour roots.

What is Makia?

Makia is a Helsinki-based clothing company founded in 2001. It describes its style as Nordic contemporary design shaped by the harsh northern climate, with simple, functional pieces built for cold and rainy conditions.

History

Makia started in a cellar in Punavuori, a former working-class neighbourhood in Helsinki's harbour area. Its first full collection in 2007 included eight everyday products, among them the Raglan Parka. European agencies opened in Italy and Spain in 2009, the office moved to an old dockyard workers' building in 2010, and footwear followed in 2011. A flagship store opened in central Helsinki in 2017.

Products and positioning

• Jackets and coats, T-shirts, sweatshirts, hoodies, knitwear and trousers
• Accessories such as beanies, caps, socks and bags
• Footwear since 2011
• Collaborations with Moomin Characters, the Alvar Aalto Foundation and Kimi Räikkönen

The company works with materials suited to northern conditions and set a goal of using 75% environmentally preferred materials by 2025.

Distribution

By 2016 Makia was sold in 20 countries through more than 500 retailers. It also runs its own Helsinki flagship and an online shop with worldwide shipping.

Why it matters

Makia is one of Finland's best known contemporary clothing brands, combining Helsinki's maritime heritage with functional design and well chosen cultural collaborations.

Frequently asked questions

Where is Makia from?

Makia is a clothing company from Helsinki, Finland, founded in 2001 in the Punavuori district.

What does Makia sell?

Makia sells functional Nordic clothing for men, women and children, as well as footwear and accessories such as beanies, caps and bags.

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