Brand Spotlight: Not All Cork Is Created Equal—Inside the Premium Brand That’s Reimagining the Material

Inspired by Kork

Some brands start with a business plan. KORK started with a dream.

Long before launching their premium line of cork-based accessories and home goods, sisters Kelly and Katrina imagined building something beautiful together. From a young age, they bonded over a shared love of interior design and fashion. Life took them in different directions—Kelly into dentistry, Katrina into the automotive world—but that dream never faded. It simply waited for the right time.

Then came 2020. As the world paused, the sisters had what they call an "awakening." They decided to return to their original passion and finally bring their long-held vision to life. After discovering the beauty and versatility of cork in an article on sustainable home decor, Kelly fell in love with the material. It checked all the boxes: soft, durable, water-resistant, and most importantly, eco-friendly. She brought the idea to Katrina, and the two instantly knew this was it.

They weren’t just starting a brand—they were building a mission.

What Makes KORK Different?

The sisters weren’t interested in creating another generic bag. They wanted elegance, comfort, and functionality. So they worked with local artisans in the Philippines to produce their first prototypes, eventually partnering with a family-owned workshop that aligned with their values of craftsmanship and community impact. Every bag is made with care, and even the leftover fabric is upcycled into jewelry, wine carriers, and keychains.

KORK products are soft to the touch, stylish enough for any outfit, and tough enough to handle everyday adventures. The company is committed to sustainable sourcing and ethical manufacturing. But just as important is their commitment to thoughtful design. Their pieces don’t scream "eco-friendly" – they whisper it, with sophistication.

From Local Roots to Global Vision

Since officially launching in 2021, KORK has steadily expanded its product line to include everything from handbags to men’s wallets to unisex travel kits. Their clean aesthetic and commitment to sustainability has earned them loyal fans across the country, with bags spotted in photos from travelers around the world.

Despite their growth, the brand remains deeply personal. Every product is a reflection of the sisters’ original vision: to create something meaningful, lasting, and kind to the earth. As they continue to scale, Kelly and Katrina are exploring new wholesale partnerships and refining their digital presence to help spread the KORK ethos far and wide.

Because at the end of the day, this isn’t just about bags.

It’s about proving that eco-conscious can be effortlessly chic. That family dreams can become global brands. And that not all cork is created equal.

Korkgoods.com