Itaf Kechetban’s journey from a fashion enthusiast to a successful businesswoman is nothing short of inspiring. As a passionate stylist, image consultant, and entrepreneur, Itaf has turned her dreams into reality, launching her own brand, Particulière, and making a name for herself in the fashion industry. Here’s a closer look at her remarkable journey, struggles, and achievements.
A Love for Fashion That Grew Into a Career
From an early age, Itaf was captivated by the world of fashion. She always had an eye for style, and it wasn’t long before she decided to pursue her passion professionally. “As a fashion lover, I studied fashion and styling, and both completed my passion toward my career path,” Itaf explains. This love for the art of design and styling led her to a career where she could showcase her creativity and make a mark in the competitive fashion world.
Her journey didn’t stop there. With a background in marketing consultancy, Itaf knew that understanding how to promote herself and her brand would be crucial to her success. Armed with a combination of fashion expertise and marketing savvy, she began creating waves in the industry.
Overcoming the Pandemic and Understanding the UAE Market
The pandemic brought challenges that most entrepreneurs weren’t prepared for, but for Itaf, it was an opportunity to pivot and adapt. “After the pandemic directly, the challenge was understanding my buyers and the UAE market,” she shares. The shift to online shopping and virtual connections during the pandemic made Itaf realize the importance of understanding her audience. She worked hard to adjust her strategies and cater to the unique tastes and preferences of the UAE market.
The success of her brand, especially her Ramadan Collection, speaks volumes about her ability to understand what her customers want. Despite the hurdles, Itaf’s passion and dedication helped her remain focused on her goals.
Building a Strong Network with Designers and Suppliers
One of the key factors in Itaf’s success has been her ability to build and maintain strong relationships. “I succeeded in creating a strong relationship with big designers,” she says. As an image consultant and makeover specialist, Itaf was able to use her connections and expertise to become a sought-after celebrity stylist. Through these relationships, she found a solid foundation to launch her own fashion collections and establish her brand.
However, Itaf’s journey wasn’t without its challenges. Finding reliable textile suppliers and skilled tailors wasn’t easy. “I’m still suffering until I have my own atelier,” she admits. But even with these obstacles, Itaf’s resilience and determination have kept her moving forward.
A Talent for Styling and Designing
Though she started out as a stylist, Itaf’s passion for fashion led her to explore designing her own collections. “I’m a stylist and fashion designer (Ramadan collection); they complete each other,” she says. By combining her skills as a stylist with her newfound design abilities, Itaf was able to create her signature Ramadan Collection that caught the attention of fashion lovers and critics alike. This successful collection showcased her ability to blend fashion with cultural elements, making her a prominent name in the industry.
Her ability to balance both styling and designing has made her a versatile figure in the fashion world, proving that passion and hard work can lead to extraordinary achievements.
Building a Strong Personal Brand and Reputation
For Itaf, branding and reputation have been vital in building her career. “Image and good reputation (brand value and proposition) are crucial,” she says. She believes that a strong personal brand, combined with a solid reputation, is key to success in any career, and this mindset has helped her navigate the complexities of the fashion world. She also emphasizes the importance of adapting to market trends and empowering women in her field, which has been an essential part of her brand’s identity.
Her background in marketing consultancy played a significant role in shaping how she promoted her business. “I know how to promote both my job and my name,” she adds confidently. Itaf’s understanding of branding and marketing allowed her to position herself effectively in a competitive industry.
The Importance of Learning and Networking
As a successful entrepreneur, Itaf stresses the importance of continuous learning. “Keep learning and developing. Support the businesses around you; that’s a definite key,” she advises. Her commitment to growth has helped her overcome challenges and find new opportunities. Whether it’s learning more about the latest trends or expanding her knowledge of the fashion industry, Itaf believes in always moving forward.
Networking has also played a crucial role in her success. “PR and a strong network with the right people are your success in any career,” she explains. By surrounding herself with influential figures in fashion and business, Itaf has been able to open doors and expand her reach.
Challenges and Perseverance in Entrepreneurship
Running a fashion brand comes with its own set of challenges. Aside from the difficulty in finding reliable suppliers and partners, Itaf has faced financial obstacles as well. “Financial advisor is a priority in any startup,” she notes. Managing finances, ensuring profitability, and making informed decisions have been important aspects of her business journey. Itaf emphasizes that being financially prudent and having the right guidance are essential for the long-term success of any venture.
Despite the ups and downs, Itaf’s perseverance has been a driving force behind her achievements. She credits her success to hard work, consistency, and the support of her social network. “The social network and good friends support my vision,” she says. Itaf believes that success is not just about personal ambition; it’s about collaborating with others and supporting the community around you.
Future Goals and Expansion
Looking ahead, Itaf’s vision for her brand is clear. She hopes to expand her business and open her own atelier, which would allow her to take her creations to new heights. “I’m still suffering until I have my own atelier,” she shares, hinting at her desire to grow her operations and increase her presence in the fashion world.
While she currently doesn’t have a presence on TikTok, Itaf is open to exploring new platforms and reaching younger audiences in the future. Her strong presence on Instagram (@fashionvoice.fk) has already garnered a loyal following, and she continues to build her brand through engaging content and fashion inspiration.
The Power of Women Empowerment in Fashion
At the heart of Itaf’s brand is a commitment to women’s empowerment. She believes that fashion is not just about clothes; it’s about confidence and self-expression. “Woman empowerment in my field” is something she holds dear, and she strives to design pieces that inspire women to feel strong and beautiful. Through her work, Itaf is helping to break barriers and challenge traditional norms, empowering women to take control of their lives and careers.
Conclusion
Itaf Kechetban’s journey is a testament to the power of perseverance, passion, and the willingness to adapt. From studying fashion to creating her own brand, she has shown that success is achievable through hard work and dedication. As she continues to grow her business and inspire others, Itaf remains focused on her vision and the values that have guided her throughout her career.
In a world where challenges are inevitable, Itaf’s story proves that with the right mindset, the sky’s the limit.
