Khaite Reviews

The leadership is completely dysfunctional. From Store Directors to especially the Assistant Store Managers. Management operates on ego, not ability. They micromanage, play favorites, and have no idea how to inspire or support a team. Communication is chaotic, direction changes daily, and accountability is nonexistent. It’s like watching people in charge of a luxury brand behave like it’s a high school clique. Turnover is through the roof because good people refuse to put up with the nonsense. The few who stay either give up or get dragged down by the constant drama and double standards. There’s zero professionalism, no consistency, and absolutely no respect for employees’ time or talent. Management has no sense of accountability or respect for anyone’s time. They stroll in late without consequence, but if an associate is even a minute behind, it’s a full-blown issue. The hypocrisy is exhausting with their “point” system.

My time at Khaite was deeply disappointing. While the brand enjoys glowing press and a carefully curated public image, the internal culture is dysfunctional, unsupportive, and at times, downright toxic. The work environment is rigidly hierarchical, with decisions dictated from the top down. Creative input is rarely welcomed unless it aligns with leadership’s preconceptions. Micromanagement is the rule, not the exception, and fear—not innovation or collaboration—drives most of the day-to-day work. There is no path for internal growth based on merit. Promotions and opportunities are not awarded to the most hardworking, talented, or dedicated team members, but to those who are favored by leadership or willing to play internal politics. It’s disheartening to watch high performers go unrecognized while others are advanced based on proximity to decision-makers, not actual contribution or skill. Work-life balance is non-existent. Long hours are normalized, expected, and rarely acknowledged. Burnout is widespread, and high turnover reflects how unsustainable the environment is. There’s little support, and even less appreciation. Compensation is average at best, and benefits are nothing to write home about. There's minimal effort to invest in employee development, mentorship, or training. Job responsibilities often shift without clarity, and expectations are rarely communicated effectively. Lastly, I feel obligated to mention the suspicious pattern of overly positive Glassdoor reviews. They often appear in batches, using similar language and vague praise. It's clear they are part of a strategy to counteract genuine negative feedback. These reviews do not reflect the actual experience of most employees who have worked behind the brand’s shiny façade. In short, if you’re looking for a respectful, meritocratic, and creatively fulfilling work environment, I strongly advise looking elsewhere. Khaite may produce beautiful collections, but it does so at a steep human cost.