We had the good fortune of connecting with Julie Patel and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Julie, how does your business help the community?
I am proud to say that Julkee Fashion is a sustainable and eco-friendly brand. All items are made from repurposed saris and scrap materials from India. The majority of my customers send me their saris to upcycle into the design of their choice. Others donate their saris to me to use for various designs and projects. Many South Asian women have stacks of saris with nowhere to wear them. Some are family heirlooms, some gifts, and some are just old styles that they no longer wish to wear. My business offers the consumer a way to recreate these saris into an outfit that is more wearable and modern. Not only does upcycling benefit the environment, but it helps us preserve our culture by displaying the rich colorful fabrics of India.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
I love the transformation process of using old to make new and the joy it brings to my customers when they see the final outcome. I hope to help them save space in their closet and take their style to the next level. Saris Reborn by Julkee Fashion was created to fill the growing demand of customers looking for formal wear and miscellaneous custom pieces, I enjoy the collaboration process and love creating something unique and personalized for my community.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I am an active person, so a nice hike in Umstead park, or at the NC Museum of Art, followed by touring the museum. Any pop-up shops for local vendors would also be a must. I also love to eat, the Umstead, Sushi Mon, Bella Monica, Angus barn, Barcelona and St Roch Fine Oysters are a few of my favorites. Nightlife when I have a chance is usually Haymaker, Killjoy, and the Architect, or a wine bar like Vita Vite.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
A shoutout goes to my customers. My business wouldn’t be possible without their cooperation. By agreeing to send me their saris, they take a risk and put their trust in me. They also recognize that even though they provide the fabric, it is still worth paying the price for a custom outfit that is upcycled since it supports sustainable fashion.

Website: www.julkeefashion.com

Instagram: Julkeefashion

Facebook: Julkeefashion

Image Credits
Em Bateman, Dimitri Williams

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