About
Circe was inspired when its founder, Katie Zorn, recognized a hole in the market for a luxury belt. Katie desired a belt that was at once classic enough to be worn on an everyday basis, yet bold enough to make a style statement. Like her favorite leather boots or designer bag, Katie knew that this overlooked accessory had the power to elevate and complete any outfit. Katie was born in New York City in 1976, and grew up in the Carnegie Hill area of the Upper East Side. She spent her childhood shopping the stores along Madison Avenue, quite a few of which were small boutiques carrying beautiful, brandless leather goods and fashion jewelry from Italy. By the 1990’s, those shops were all replaced by brand name stores, but Katie’s affinity for their elegant statement accessories remained. After attending New York University where she studied philosophy, Katie’s passion for design led her back to Parson’s School of Design to get a graduate degree. Her eponymous label followed which garnered attention and acclaim from periodicals such as WWD and the NYTimes, and was worn by actors and musicians on the red carpet. Life led Katie to shutter that business so she could focus on raising her young son, and heal from a divorce and the loss of her brother, who succumbed to a long battle with mental illness and drugs in 2012. She became an active mental health advocate, working tirelessly to destigmatize the disease. Circe was born from the strength, light and beauty that saved Katie from a dark time, as well as her love of design which she has nurtured throughout her life. Katie’s mission now is to empower others to harness their own light, find their voice, and look effortlessly chic and powerful while on the journey. Circe: Intrinsic. Transformative. You.