A family story born in Saint-Tropez
The K.Jacques house was founded in 1933, when Armenian refugee couple Jacques and Elise Keklikian opened a modest workshop at 39 rue Allard in Saint-Tropez.
From the beginning, everything was handcrafted and custom-made: Jacques designed and manufactured the sandals, while Elise handled sales.
This humble, handmade, and intimate process laid the foundations for a legacy of savoir-faire passed down from generation to generation.
Full-grain leather: noble material and quality signature
At the heart of the manufacturing process, leather plays a central role: K.Jacques exclusively uses "full-grain" leather, renowned for its quality, robustness, and ability to develop a patina over time.
The sole, which supports the body's weight, must be made of very thick leather — a crucial detail to guarantee comfort, durability, and sturdiness over the years.
It is this choice of material and the care taken in the finishing that give K.Jacques sandals their unique and timeless character.
Meticulous artisanal craftsmanship: 4 days, 46 steps, 123 elements
The manufacture of a K.Jacques sandal is not a quick process: it takes an average of four days of work, spread over 46 different operations, to assemble 123 elements — not counting the use of about 60 tacks for some soles.
Each sole consists of two parts: an inner sole hand-stitched with linen thread imported from Ireland (chosen for its robustness), then an outer sole — all stamped "K.JACQUES Saint-Tropez" or "created and made in St-Tropez."
This level of detail, this blend of tradition, patience, and precision, reflects the brand's commitment to exceptional craftsmanship.
100% French manufacturing, true to its values
Since its beginnings, K.Jacques has remained faithful to its original workshop — based in Saint-Tropez — and refuses relocation.
During high season, the workshop and boutiques employ approximately 50 people.
Despite international reach (more than 70% of sandals are exported to five continents), the house perpetuates a made-in-France artisanal model, founded on passion, tradition, and a deep love for fine work.
K.Jacques' leadership has remained within the family: the siblings of the founders, and then their descendants, continue to manage the house.
The brand has evolved, revisited its models, and adapted to trends while keeping its original spirit intact — simplicity, durability, elegance.
Today, K.Jacques embodies both the discreet chic of the Riviera and French artisanal excellence — a rare balance between heritage and modernity.
