FASHTALKS WITH REER3

Did you always know you wanted to be a designer?

Yes, I already started to customize my own clothes by hand when I was a teenager.

What inspired you to create your own brand?

It was always a dream to create my own brand. I think it’s very important to follow your passion because you will just regret the things you did not do in life.

What is the inspiration for your brand’s name?

My grandparents played a huge role in my life. REER3 is a combination of Rudolf, my grandpa’s name, and Erna, my grandmother’s name. The number 3 symbolizes the three of us together.

What is your favorite part about being a designer?

I love that the creativity is endless, having the ability to create or design so many styles and items.

"With each mistake I made, I was able to grow and become more knowledgeable in the fashion industry."

If you could do something different before starting your business what would it be?

I wouldn’t do anything differently. I started my business slowly, step by step. With each mistake I made, I was able to grow and become more knowledgeable in the fashion industry.

What was the toughest circumstance you overcame when just starting out your business?

The thing that stops most people from starting their own business is the fear of failure. I always try to see the good in the bad, so I know failing is a part of life. Learning from these lessons will allow you to build your business even better.

Do you feel working in the fashion industry is different today than from when you started out? Why or why not?

Yes! It’s nice to see that fair trade fashion is getting more interest and attention from the industry and from consumers.

What direction do you believe the fashion industry is headed to?

I think the fashion industry is moving away from consumption and more towards sustainability and fair trade.

"To me, success means to live a life of happiness and follow your passion."

What does the word “success” mean to you?

To me, success means to live a life of happiness and follow your passion.

Are you passionate about something other than fashion?

Yes, I love art, history, and biology.

How has COVID-19 impacted your business and how are you navigating differently now than before?

The pandemic, fortunately, did not impact my B2C business; however, it did impact the B2B business due to the fact that there are no fashion fairs to exhibit the collection. Thankfully, the pandemic has shown people, including me, what is important in life. Not money or success, but health, solidarity, and sustainability in all things.