BIO

Domestikit is the creation of Dominique Cocuzza, who is a museum professional by day and a designer by night. Dominique's love of textiles and fashion began at a very early age. She first learned the principles of art, design, and garment construction at home from her mother, MaryAnn. MaryAnn patiently guided Dominique with her excellent teaching skills and in-depth knowledge of fine art and apparel design. Dominique had a natural inclination for visual creativity and the discipline necessary to master each new skill. She found the process of visual expression thrilling. As a young girl, her passion lead her to take three years of clothing and textiles courses and college level art classes. Simply put, Dominique wouldn't wear it unless she made it.

Dominique went on to earn a BFA from Mason Gross School of Art, Rutgers where she concentrated on printmaking, cast paper sculpture and fiber arts. After she finished her degree, she discovered the world of art preservation. Her first position in the field was at a research institute, where she preserved rare Yiddish books. She found immense satisfaction in preserving cultural objects. Her experiences in conservation somehow lead her back to her first love - clothing and textiles. She decided to return to school for further training, and earned a Master's degree from F.I.T. in Costume and Textile Conservation. Since then, Dominique has published several papers on historic dress and has worked for many of New York's top museums. She currently works for the Smithsonian Institution in New York where she preserves cultural property and contemporary art.

Domestikit has brought Dominique full circle. Her life and career experiences have provided her with a rich visual vocabulary and an in-depth technical understanding of art, design, and dress. She continually finds inspiration in the beauty that so many cultures have bestowed upon everyday objects. What began at home for Dominique now returns home with Domestikit's vintage inspired line of hostess fashion.