Industry Spotlight: Fashion Buyer and International Retail Consultant Turns Small Business Owner in Detroit

Roslyn Karamoko, creator of Détroit Is the New Black, has made her way through the fashion industry working for companies like Saks Fifth Avenue, and really doing it all. Styling, buying and consulting are all careers listed on her resume, and now she can add business owner. Karamoko’s world travels have landed her right here and Detroit, and fortunately for us, she decided to set up shop (literally) and stay a while.

DGG: Tell us about yourself, Roslyn.

Roslyn Karamoko: I grew up in Seattle, Washington and went to college in Washington DC. I love to travel, explore new and hidden gems in the city, and hang out at Belle Isle.

DGG: Tell us about your journey in the industry.

RK: I majored in fashion merchandising at Howard University and moved to New York upon graduation. I worked briefly as a styling intern for Bad Boy records before landing a job as a merchandising assistant at Saks Fifth Avenue. I completed the buying and planning development program and went on to become an associate buyer, then planner in the women's outerwear office. After Saks, I moved to Singapore to work as a retail consultant for an online e-commerce start-up called Zalora, which has since grown to become the largest online fashion retailer in Southeast Asia. During my time with the company, I sourced international high-street labels from the U.S. and Europe to sell throughout Southeast Asia. 

DGG: What are the pros and cons of being a fashion buyer?

RK: The pros are being able to stay abreast on the current trends and the fast-paced environment. It's super exciting to attend market twice a year and see all of the fresh products each season. The cons are managing OTB (Open-To-Buy) budgets and writing orders. Ultimately, you're responsible for sales, and this doesn't always correlate with your individual tastes and/or aesthetic.

DGG: What advice do you have for someone looking to have a career as a buyer?

RK: I would advise them to find a buyers training program through a major department store. Other than Saks, Macy's has a great one and I believe Sears has a program based out of Chicago for those not in NY. Also, Limited brands (Victoria Secret, The Limited, Bath and Body Works) have a great training program that offers a solid foundation for anyone looking to get into retail buying/merchandising. 

DGG: When and why did you start Detroit is the New Black?

RK: I started Detroit is the New Black in 2014. I wanted to offer a message of optimism for the city as well as create a cosmopolitan/upscale feel. I think it's a nice alternative to the Detroit product that's out there, and it reflects a fresh perspective. Long term, I want to create a sustainable fashion label for Detroit that has a warehouse and manufacturing facility in the city, which will create jobs and inspire locals looking to work in fashion to stay in Detroit. 

DGG: What has been the most rewarding thing about starting your business?

RK: I would say the overwhelming response to the brand. I feel blessed that it's resonated with so many people from varying walks of life. I've always sought to bring people together through fashion, and I feel I've been able to strike that balance with the brand. 

DGG: What advice do you have to give about starting a business?

RK: I would say have a solid business plan to start out with, but be flexible as things always change. Also, be resilient and stay the course. There are certainly challenging days when you feel like giving up, but remembering why you started should always give you new motivation to keep moving forward. 

DGG: Tell us about your store in midtown and what you have to offer, besides your iconic shirts!

RK: The store is a high-low mix of luxury labels and local designers. I wanted to create a shop that offers aspirational runway pieces, but still have affordable items for everyday wear. 

DGG: Describe your style.

RK: Classic, easy, signature. Usually black. 

DGG: How do you take your coffee?

RK: Black. 

DGG: Bergdorf Goodman or Barneys New York?

RK: Bergdorf. 

DGG: Crewneck t-shirts or V-neck t-shirts?

RK: V-neck