Kai D Utility Closing Its 75 Orchard Shop

It was born a pop-up concept, but eventually morphed into a full-time retail shop.  Kai D. Utility at 75 Orchard Street first opened in September 2009, selling overpriced “utilitarian” threads inspired by “vintage workwear, military, hunting gear, [and] updated with modern utility aesthetics.” Sixteenth months after launch, the store is closing.  The phone lines are disconnected.

Exclusive broker Besen Retail draped the leasing banner from the second floor fire escape over the weekend, serving as official announcement to the neighborhood.  Word on the street is that the boutique will vacate the premises by the end of the month. In the meantime, customers can still purchase Kai D. styles through the online store.

75 Orchard was previously home to By Robert James, which moved across the street in August 2009.