Today we’d like to introduce you to Giana “Regal” Abreu-Christopher
Hi Giana “Regal”, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
My journey began as a designer-seamstress creating couture designs for cultural festivities that has grown into the leading madras fashion brand in the Virgin Islands creating an appreciation for Caribbean culture and identity. What started as a home based small business has expanded to an online brand with services like online shopping, custom order booking, cultural crafting events, fashion shows and most recent, an invitation to speak as a madras cultural representative internationally towards the end of the year.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
The road has come with a few bumps that I’ve had to overcome. Culture is very significant and safely guarded by cultural icons in the territory, as such, it took several years of hard work representing our culture respectfully to be considered a cultural ambassador, something I consider to be a great honor. I have also faced challenges with the local inventory of the Virgin Islands madras fabric directly affecting the sales in my business. After heavy promotion after its initial release in 2019 , the managing agency has failed to keep the fabric in continuous stock which is still a current issue leading me to create digital print option fabrics and products to continue pushing the culture during the inventory gaps. With every challenge comes an opportunity to find a new solution, the ball has to keep rolling.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I am a designer and seamstress who specializes in the use of madras fabric in fashion, jewelry and crafts. I am best known for my brand ,designs by Regal, which represents Caribbean culture and identity. I am most proud of the growth my brand has experienced in being recognized as a madras ambassador in our territory promoting our culture internationally. Intertwining the history behind madras and how it binds us on a global scale beyond fashion. Continually tying tradition and keeping it alive is what sets my brand apart from others ensuring that the story never dies. Every madras piece is an opportunity to share Caribbean culture represented by an identifying fabric.
Do you have any advice for those looking to network or find a mentor?
When it comes to networking I have found it’s a process. Every new encounter is an opportunity to connect and find like minded individuals and those who are further ahead in areas you may lack as far as skill. Sometimes it may take pushing yourself out of your comfort zone to reach the necessary growth and recognizing that familiar spaces won’t get you ahead. The goal for me has been to connect with people who are passionate about my brands representation and believe in the vision.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.designsbyregal.com
- Instagram: @designs.by.regal
- Facebook: designsbyRegal
Image Credits
Aesthete Noire
Soundstage Studios