KDM: Hey Karen, Karabo here from the Sowetan

KP: Hi Karabo,

KDM: We will be profiling you for our fashion page, as your accessories completely blew us away!

KP: Wow, thank you for the compliment

KDM: Okay, so let’s start with a bit of background. Can you please tell me about yourself?

KP: I am Zimbabwean born, a wife, a mother who loves fashion and believes in letting a statement piece to do the talking.  I am inspired by the rich colors of African fabrics when designing having lived in 5 different countries.

KDM: How and when did your love for fashion start?

KP: I lived in West Africa for a few years and what struck most was how the women there took great pride in African prints and wear. I had always had a keen interest in fashion prior to that but had not found a way to express myself. Finding an outlet through African print was the catalyst that got more to become more serious about my fashion work. That was 5 years ago.

KDM: Were you self-taught or did you study the craft?

KP: I am self-taught. The pieces I produce now are a result of a journey of self- learning and some trial and error.

KDM: Wasn’t it difficult to learn? How long would you say it took you to be perfect as you are now?

KP: Yes there were difficulties. It’s never easy to start a business. It took me about 2 years to hone in my skill and establish a niche that not only reflects me as an individual but the market demands as well.

KDM: How would you describe your pieces?

KP: My pieces embrace our African heritage, brighten up your day, complete your outfit whilst making a statement. They are all about the brightness, colour, joy and fun that is found on our continent. They will bring brightness into your wardrobe and life even on a gloomy day.

KDM: How would you describe your target woman?

KP: I make Accessories and these are meant to compliment most women’s outfit. This can be a professional woman or someone going out to a formal event – my pieces add a ‘Je me sais quoi’ element to the outfit whilst embracing our African heritage.

KDM: Tell me about your current range. What do you have?

KP: Currently we make covered button neckpieces which is my main accessory and it’s complimented by matching clutch bags, belts and/or head wraps. These come in different colors, fabrics and sizes

KDM: Are buttons your choice of material, or do you have other unique things you use?

KP: Handmade fabric covered buttons are the main medium that I work with and complimented with beads. I source my fabrics from all across the continent

KDM: Do you have any accessories for men?

KP: Yes I do. I have small range for men. Hats, ties and scarfs.

KDM: Tell me about your price range. What is the most costly item, and what is the cheapest?

KP: My prices range from R250 to R1500

Karabo Sowetan: What would be for R250 and what would be R1500 for example?

KP: I have one called “Nano”. It has 25-30 buttons on it. Our smallest piece. That costs R250. Then we have the “masterpiece”. The piece has between 280-300 buttons on it.

KDM: That sounds amazing. Where can people find you?

KP: Thank you. Online store and our mini collection showroom is at 287 Kent Avenue, Ferndale, Randburg

KDM: Lastly, what would you say your biggest achievement has been where your business is concerned?

KP: Participating at the Soweto Fashion Week earlier on this year and showcasing my designs at Music Comedy on the Runway last month.

KDM: How was that experience for you, and how were your pieces received?

KP: It was an amazing experience for me. It was so humbling that my creations and my passion stirred a positive response from the audience and encouragement from other designers. I’m an infant in the fashion industry and therefore both grateful and always humbled when people react positively to my creations that emanate from my heart

KDM: What are your future plans for your business?

KP: I would like to expand my range to include an African themed line for professional women. This will encompass day to day professional wear with a splash of our African heritage. Whilst maintaining the Afrikaren ethos which is each piece is lovingly and uniquely made.

KDM: Karen, thank u so much for your time. You are amazing

KP: Aww. Thank you Karabo