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
