Today we’d like to introduce you to Charmia Elam.
Charmia, please share your story with us. How did you get to where you are today?
I am an internationally certified wardrobe stylist and the owner/creative director of MAUVE. I am originally from Montgomery, AL. My hometown has taught me a tremendous amount of knowledge the strength of hard work, dedication, pride, and compassion.
MAUVE is a digital platform that was founded during 2018 initially as a creative outlet to my everyday life. I have always been know for my style, but mostly for always wearing distinct niche accessories. I’ve been collecting vintage items since I was in graduate school, probably around 2013. After constantly being asked where I found pieces that I wore or receiving compliments wherever I went, my boyfriend suggested that I start selling pieces out my closet when I would clean… (he thought I was a hoarder of clothes, I would like to look at myself as a prized collector, lol)
While preparing for my transition to go abroad to study fashion in Paris, I began selling pieces to friends and also became an online seller. After becoming extremely successful on various selling platforms for years, I was confident that I would thrive without using a third-party source and MAUVE’s official website was launched January 2020.
Has it been a smooth road?
I contribute a diverse international background bridging both business and fashion earning a B.S. in International Business and Fashion Merchandising/Apparel and an M.B.A. After completing my M.B.A., I still felt an urge to dive further into Fashion. I then went on to study at the world-renowned Istituto Marangoni in Paris, France and received a certification in Fashion Image & Style.
In addition to being an entrepreneur, I am also a full-time corporate employee and Business Law student so I have learned to be very self-efficient and make great use of time.
I am very blessed to be able to work and be successful in both the business and fashion world. I am thankful for the opportunities and connections that I have received over the years. I have a very strong circle of support from my loved ones, and to me that carries much of the foundation that you need in this thing called “life.”
I contribute much of my career growth to New Orleans Fashion Week & Essence.
Some of the struggles for me are having a large footprint in cities where I am not always able to be present, but then again that is what planes and time-management are for.
I always make a point to make connections with people no matter where I am in life. Even if it is just chatting with someone at the washbowl in a restroom… you never know who you may be talking to or where life will take them one day. I pride myself with being a communicator and friend.
Please tell us about Mauve.
MAUVE is a Women’s Luxury and Consignment eCommerce Boutique dedicated to the fashion maverick.
MAUVE is also a digital platform that also provides services such as wardrobe consultations, closet consultations, and all things Fashion.
MAUVE is known for specializing in vintage designer gems, exclusive collaborations, luxe finds, and much more!
What I am most proud of is the growth of MAUVE over such as small span of time and the support received its community.
What sets MAUVE apart from other luxury consignment shops are not only the quality of the products but also the exclusivity of my products and great customer service. MAUVE provides access to exclusive collaborations, playful pieces, and timeless staples while offering wardrobe styling from an owner who has both the educational and work experience in the field. This isn’t your typical vintage shop.
Let’s touch on your thoughts about our city – what do you like the most and least?
What I like best about Atlanta is the prestige of the African-American community and how you can be anything you put your efforts into.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.shopmauve.co
- Email: www.shopmauve.co@gmail.com
- Instagram: @mauve.co
- Facebook: shopMAUVE.co
Image Credit:
Black background: Michiah Pho; Essence Alien Bag: Taylor Hunter; Blue Outfit: Views by Idris; Hello Ballons: Katelyn LeBlanc; Essence Braids: Emily Malan; Tassel Dress: TakeoffwithTal; IvyPark: fucluv_xx
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