Kazumi Vites shared their story and experiences with us recently and you can find our conversation below.
Kazumi, it’s always a pleasure to learn from you and your journey. Let’s start with a bit of a warmup: What’s more important to you—intelligence, energy, or integrity?
For me, integrity comes first. Intelligence and energy are powerful tools, but without integrity, they can lose their true purpose. At WOOL PROJECT. integrity shapes every decision we make from the way we source materials to the way we connect with our community. It’s about staying honest, keeping promises, and ensuring that what we create is not only beautiful but also responsible. I believe integrity builds trust, and trust is the foundation of any lasting relationship, whether with customers, collaborators, or within a brand itself.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
My name is Kazumi Shibakura Vites, and I’m the founder of Wool Project. Since 1995, I’ve been working as a pattern maker and technical designer, and over the years I realized I wanted to create a brand that reflects both quality and care. Wool Project is about making timeless, sustainable pieces that feel effortless to wear but are designed to last. Everything is produced in small batches in Los Angeles, so we can focus on comfort, fit, and craftsmanship. For me, the brand is more than clothing. it’s about creating pieces people can trust and love for years, while staying true to the values of honesty and integrity that guide everything I do
Amazing, so let’s take a moment to go back in time. Who taught you the most about work?
I’ve learned the most from experience, especially that keeping your promises is what really matters. Being on time and delivering on time are part of that, but at its core, it’s about reliability, respect, and commitment, values that guide everything I do at Wool Project
What did suffering teach you that success never could?
Suffering has taught me resilience and patience in a way that success never could. It showed me the value of persistence, humility, and attention to detail, lessons that directly shape how I approach WOOL PROJECT. Challenges teach you to trust your process, focus on what truly matters, and appreciate every small step forward. Success can feel exciting, but hardships teach you how to endure, adapt, and create something meaningful that lasts.
Next, maybe we can discuss some of your foundational philosophies and views? Whose ideas do you rely on most that aren’t your own?
I rely most on my husband’s ideas. He spends the most time with me and really knows me, so his perspective is invaluable. He helps me see things differently, keeps me grounded, and often points out solutions I might not notice on my own. I trust his insight completely.
It’s like having a built-in sounding board for both life and work.
Okay, so let’s keep going with one more question that means a lot to us: If you knew you had 10 years left, what would you stop doing immediately?
I wouldn’t stop what I’m doing now. I’d keep working, learning, and improving. Creating and growing gives me purpose and joy, and I want to make the most of every moment doing what I love.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://woolproject.com
- Instagram: @woolprojectofficial
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kazumi-s-vites
Image Credits
Model:Yuliia Kurochka
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