June 20th, 2017 (New York) – Karu launches in New York with its first collection of artisanal home textiles and clothing inspired by the landscapes and homesteads of the South African Karoo. Reflecting the colors, textures and flora of this evocative region, the designs seek to combine the tranquil simplicity of country living with a modern sensibility and style.
Co-founded by Alexis Barrell and Fiona Mackay, Karu was born out of a desire for versatile homeware and clothing to reflect their personal lifestyles— a fluid existence where place, work, life and style meet.
The home textiles include beautifully subtle quilts, throws, pillows and table coverings in cotton and linen, that multitask for indoor-outdoor living. Apparel comprises both sleepwear and daywear: effortless dresses, shirts, pajamas and gowns are made in cotton, linen and silk in easy fits that balance contemporary proportions with minimal hardware. Each distinctive piece is designed to hold a timeless appeal and convey the feeling of being at home.
With each piece made by hand, the artisan’s imprint is evident in every detail: cottons, linens and khadi are hand-dyed in earthy washes of sky, aloe, olive, rose, and orchre. Graphic block prints and hand-loomed details weave through the collection of small-production textiles. By working with independent workshops and low minimum suppliers waste is kept low, and fabric unique.
After a successful first New York pop-up – called ‘Hand’ - that featured a number of other design brands making finely crafted products by hand, Alexis and Fiona will host further concept sales and trunk shows this year, while adding to their e-commerce offering. Additionally, they are developing the business via partnerships with select retailers, interior décor professionals and hotels in the United States and Southern Africa.
About the founders:
Alexis Barrell (Founder and Creative Director). A fashion, interiors and textile designer, Alexis has designed and produced for clients ranging from eBay to Fabergé. In 2014 she won the British Fashion Council contemporary designer award for her eponymous label, which British Vogue describes as “laid back luxury with a dose of eccentricity”. Alexis has creative directed start-up fashion brands and managed large-scale production in Europe and Asia. Most recently, she designed and produced a range of bespoke textiles for The Robertson Small Hotel, South Africa.
Fiona Mackay, (Founder and President). Fiona is a brand marketer working across the fashion, luxury and lifestyle industries. She has held senior positions at Karla Otto and NOWNESS, and worked with brands including Mercedes-Benz, Louis Vuitton and Estée Lauder Companies, as well as a number of New York-based retail start-ups. Fiona has an MBA from Columbia Business School and an MSc in Communications from the London School of Economics.
www.karu.world
@karucollections
For enquiries: fiona@karu.world