Six Cat Productions was founded by Yasemin Esmek who originally moved from Germany to New York City to pursue her passion for fashion design. Hailing from a family with a rich tradition in tailoring, she brought a strong background in the craft with her. Yasemin honed her skills at Izquierdo Studios, working as a tailor and draper, and collaborated with renowned costume designers like Willa Kim and Patricia Zipproth on Broadway productions. She also worked with Yoshio Yabara on Meredith Monk's "Dolman Music" and "Atlas," overseeing the costume production for both pieces.
Inspired by Yabara, who was impressed by a scarf she created, Yasemin ventured into producing and selling her own accessories. She purchased a knitting machine and began crafting hats and scarves in her studio, both by hand and machine. Her unique designs caught the attention of Judy Collinson and Sarah Blair, accessory buyers from Barneys, who bought her entire collection exclusively. This success led to further orders from Henry Bendel, Neiman Marcus, and numerous boutiques across the country after showcasing her work at the Fashion Coterie on Pier 94.
After getting married, Yasemin moved to Japan, where she continued her business and welcomed her daughter. Upon returning to the United States, where her son was born, she designed and produced sweaters that were sold at Barneys and Neiman Marcus. Following a break to raise her children, Yasemin joined the Met costume shop and later transitioned to Broadway, film, and TV as a tailor.
Throughout her career, Yasemin has worked on numerous Broadway shows and TV productions, always seeking opportunities in knitting and crochet. She collaborated with Arjun Bhasin on "A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood," knitting the iconic red sweater for Mr. Rogers, as well as other signature pieces. She also created custom sweaters for Téa Leoni in "Madam Secretary" and a silk crochet dress for Robin Wright. Recently, Yasemin was commissioned by Allie Pearce to reproduce an iconic sweater for "Clerks III" and is currently working on an upcoming movie directed and written by Jessica Swale, designed by Pearce.