The fashion, style and quality are some of the brand signatures Truly Karin is known for. Their stunning designs are always eye-catching, relevant and to die for, and that is why we brought the lady behind the brand on this edition, to introduce you to her incredible work. Truly Karin was founded by Karin Elvira Roman, who was born in a small town called Willowmore in the Karoo. Karin grew up in Uitenhage, where she is still currently residing and run her business.
Before we spoke about her journey, we wanted to hear from her about who in the Mzansi fashion and designing industry is her favourite and why, and this is what she said, “One designer that I like other than myself is David Tlale. I love his story and how he paved the way for other young designers. I also love his consistency with his brand”.
When did you commence with your business and brand and what motivated you to start? “I started sewing as a hobby in 2018. In 2019, I officially registered as a business and launched my first collection in 2020. Honestly - when I started, I was bored, and wanted to try something different so I went for sewing classes. From the get go after I started the classes I fell inlove with the craft and continued with it to a point that I felt confident enough to design and sew different kinds of garments. Today I design for women of all shapes and sizes and my garments are very versatile”.
What has been the most challenging thing since you commenced? “I found it challenging to put myself out there and making my brand known because I’m such an introvert. Also finding an audience for my brand was challenging a first. But I started going to events, networking, creating different pages and that has introduced my work to the streets of not only Uitenhage but the Nelson Mandela Bay as a whole and out of the metro.
What kind of garments/designs do you sell as a business? “I offer everyday casual wear, like your shirts, pants, skirts, coats, jackets etc. I also do matric farewell dresses, evening-wear, bridal and custom outfits. I allow my clients to also throw ideas on what they have in mind and take it from there, because I believe that including clients also grows the relationship with them and everyone enjoys being part of the process of what they will wear at the end”.
Since the inception of Truly Karin, what could you say it’s highlights of your business? “Doing fashion shows, meeting different clients, networking, meeting different designers, creating new collections has been the highlights for me because when I started, I never thought of that picture because the love was only for sewing and just sewing, so it really is a great journey to see myself and the business growing to greater heights”.
Where can people access and buy your garments? “Currently, my products are available at Collective Co in Johannesburg, where my items are readily available. I also have an online store where everyone can order and I make the product according to the clients size and measurements. Clients can also view my work on on my social pages to have an idea of my stunning work”.
Lastly, where to from here? “As my business continues to grow, I would love to have permanent staff members, so I can also play a role in fighting unemployment in our country while introducing my staff to the sewing skill and the fashion industry”.