Today we’d like to introduce you to Gabriela Vera.
Hi Gabriela, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I am Gaby, I am an entrepreneur in the fashion industry with a mission. As soon as I found out what fast fashion really was, I decided it was the enemy. Learning that these fashion monsters are able to freely knock off designer styles and make them as cheaply as they possibly can, repulsed me. However, I was always drawn to the fashion industry, I was enamored by the stories that designers tell with their collections each season and I had to be a part of the industry. Over the past decade, I have immersed myself in the fashion domain, assuming the role of a seasoned sales representative. My professional journey has involved collaborating with a diverse array of buyers, spanning from quaint boutiques to expansive department stores. Guiding them in the curation of their seasonal merchandise selections, I reveled in the art of predicting what would sell and discerning the forthcoming trends. My tenure in the industry provided me with invaluable insights into the needs and demands of the commercial fashion market.
Yet, I couldn’t ignore fashion’s environmental impact as the second-largest polluting industry, worsened by fast fashion’s ascent.
The Espera Collection was created as a defiant stance against the unrestrained consumption and manufacturing of clothing, advocating for a transition towards a circular economy. My approach involves the curation of exceptional pieces sourced from flea markets, thrift stores, and local rag houses. I clean and style the clothes to create seasonal collections and I present each collection as any high-end designer would. I currently have a website, and I have engaged in a multitude of pop-up events throughout the city, striving to connect with conscious local shoppers who share my vision.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Early on, I encountered several challenges in my journey within the fashion industry. It’s a competitive field, and as someone who didn’t attend fashion school but instead pursued a business education, I faced the task of differentiating myself and demonstrating my commitment to a career in fashion. To address this, I sought out opportunities to bolster my resume, volunteering at numerous fashion events in pursuit of cultivating valuable industry connections. Additionally, I undertook an unpaid internship at a showroom to gain practical experience. Despite my concerted efforts and the extracurricular experiences I accumulated, securing a well-paying job proved to be a serious obstacle, especially in the demanding environment of Los Angeles. Years later, I finally secured a position as a sales assistant. This marked a turning point in my career, allowing me to gradually build my path in the industry.
The biggest lesson I learned through it all is that the industry can’t help but to function this way. Being noticed is the biggest obstacle, but luckily for me, I am persistent.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know?
The Espera Collection is a thoughtfully curated, vintage boutique that embodies the marriage of timeless style and sustainability. We pride ourselves on the unique blend of luxury and eco-consciousness, where pieces from the past are reimagined into tasteful and playful ensembles for the future. I visit any place where second-hand goods are sold, and I select the best of the best items. My mission is to elevate the desirability and accessibility of second-hand treasures for our customers. To achieve this, I clean, steam, and style my findings, sparing my customers the effort of rifling through smelly thrift stores in search of hidden gems. Instead, they can effortlessly discover incredible second-hand fashion on our website or at one of our pop-up events.
What truly sets us apart is our dedication to providing a shopping experience that’s second to none in the world of sustainable fashion. Each collection we offer has a unique perspective, meticulously curated to ensure the highest quality and style. We take pride in delivering not just clothing but a journey through time, all with a contemporary twist, giving our customers access to a world of vintage fashion with ease and elegance. The Espera Collection is the go-to destination for those seeking to embrace sustainable fashion without compromising on style, luxury, or convenience.
Pricing:
- Styles vary between $25-$200
Contact Info:
- Website: theesperacollection.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theesperacollection
