Kahlana Barfield Brown Shares the Story Behind Starbucks’ Weighted Vest

Kahlana Barfield Brown’s latest collaboration with Starbucks brought together fashion, fitness, and wellness in a way that immediately captured attention. Through her brand KBB by Kahlana, Brown helped design a limited-edition weighted vest tied to Starbucks’ Coffee & Protein lineup and the Starbucks Coffee & Protein Level Up Strava Challenge. The vest sold out quickly, showing strong interest in a product that blends everyday function with an elevated, stylish look.

Brown said the partnership felt especially personal because it reflected her real life and routines. As a mother, wife, and busy working woman, she said her mornings are her main time for self-care, movement, and setting the tone for the day. She also noted that she already wears weighted vests herself, but had long felt there were few options on the market that looked feminine and fashionable. That gap inspired the design and helped shape the final product.

The vest was released at a retail price of $22, a number chosen to match the 22 grams of complete protein in each bottle of Starbucks Coffee & Protein. It was offered in sizes XS/S, M/L, and XL/2X, and included removable weights that users could swap for heavier options. Brown said the design was meant to work for a modern morning routine, allowing someone to go from a walk or workout into the rest of the day without compromising style.

Several design details helped set the vest apart. Brown highlighted the adjustable side ties as one of her favorite elements, saying she loves pieces that can be tightened or loosened to create different shapes. She also appreciated the green-dipped tips on the ties, which gave the vest a subtle pop of color. For her, those small details made the piece feel thoughtful, polished, and different from typical fitness gear.

Fabric quality was another priority throughout the process. Brown said she was very focused on how the vest would feel against the skin, especially during sweating or movement. She wanted sturdy construction, strong hardware, and a material that felt substantial and comfortable. Her attention to quality reflected her fashion background and helped position the vest as more than a novelty item.

Brown also offered advice for aspiring designers hoping to collaborate with major brands. She stressed the importance of working with companies whose values align with their own. In her view, a successful partnership requires real creative freedom and an authentic connection to the brand. She said a collaboration should feel true to the designer, not like simply attaching a name to a product.

For those hoping to get their hands on the vest, Starbucks has not announced a restock. However, users can still take part in the Strava Challenge through June 18. Participants are encouraged to walk or run 22 minutes a day for at least 10 days, giving them another chance to engage with the campaign and potentially move closer to the coveted item.