We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Julie Patel a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Julie, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. How did you come up with the idea for your business?

Most Indian Americans can agree that they have a closet full of saris. Saris are 6-7 meter lengths of fabric that are draped around you, the traditional garb worn by women in India. Growing up as first generation Indians in America we accumulate these beautiful pieces with not so many places to wear them. I began transforming my own saris into dresses and other modern cuts after I had my first born. I realized it was much easier to wear and take care of a child, and it was more wearable to more events other that South Asian weddings and functions. It first started as a hubby for myself and the turned into local customers to national and now global. Women send me their saris from all over the world. The process of turning something old into new excites me and knowing that I am reducing waste and contributing to sustainable fashion is the icing on top.

Julie, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

My name is Julie Patel, I started my own brand called Julkeefashion which upcycle a saris into modern outfits for women. I do custom work as well as sell ready to wear items. I am proud that my work reduces waste and supports sustainable fashion.

Can you talk to us about how your side-hustle turned into something more.

What started as a hobby and just for my own closet spread to friends and family. From there I started getting mass orders and decided to scale up. This was not easy because I am the only designer and seamstress. I am now working to build a team to help me sew my designs and create more ready to wear to stick my inventory.

Any insights you can share with us about how you built up your social media presence?

It has been a slow organic growth for my brand. I use the strategies and tending sounds but I also stay true to myself and try to remain as real and relatable as possible. I believe that this is why my audience stays with me. It’s always quality over quantity that matters to me.

Contact Info:

• Website: Www.julkeefashion.com
• Instagram: Julkeefashion