About Kingdom of Wow

Godie saw prospect in the slippers she’d worn since childhood: handmade by a family friend, naturally biodegradable, and beautifully simple. Their seamless design could only be crafted by hand - guaranteeing employment that couldn’t be replaced by machinery. When the time came for the original artisan to hang up her crochet hook and retire, it felt natural for Godie to take the product to a new level.

What began as a vision for ethical craftsmanship became a business built on dignity, design, and doing things differently.

Newly settled in Cambodia with her husband and two young sons, Godie laid the foundations for Kingdom of Wow. With just two part-time artisans, she set to work refining the original pothees - experimenting with shapes, perfecting sole patterns, reimagining comfort. It was slow, hands-on work, steeped in tradition, guided by touch.

Testing slippers in a tropical climate proved tricky, so early batches were sent home to the Netherlands, where cold floors and honest feedback helped shape the first KOWs. By winter 2016, they were ready. The first pairs landed in Dutch homes, and the quiet word-of-mouth momentum began. A brand born in heat, built for the cold.

Focusing on export of the slippers to Europe, a more local opportunity became clear. In Cambodia’s warm climate, espadrilles were the perfect fit - light, breathable, and handmade with care. Using deadstock fabrics sourced from nearby markets, each pair gave new purpose to leftover materials, blending comfort with conscious design.

Amidst COVID, we took a bold step - quietly entering the U.S. market to test new waters. At the same time, a collaboration began with ninth-generation Dutch shoe designer Floris van Bommel, blending design with handcrafted comfort.

What started as cautious moves sparked unexpected momentum. Through the uncertainty, demand grew - and with it, our team. We expanded, hiring more local staff, proving that even in difficult times, thoughtful products still find their place.