Founds business to also help staff
AFTER living in India for several years, Trish Louey returned to Sydney and noticed a distinct gap in the local market for high quality vintage and ethnic-inspired clothing.
Inspired by her travels, Trish founded wholesale business Rasaleela Clothing in 2002 and set up in Alexandria.
While all items are designed in Australia, Rasaleela works with tailors in India to manufacture clothing to the highest, long-lasting standard.
“I have a deep connection to India and its people,” Trish said.”
“I spend six weeks in Rajasthan every year working side by side with the tailors and workers. I attend their family weddings and other social functions. I have a close family-like relationship with all of them.”
“I have been dealing with the same two family-run businesses for 15 years.
“I’m obsessed with ethical fashion with a conscience; the business only deals with family-based companies with great working conditions and fair wages, no sweatshop conditions and no child workers.”
Their artisanal tailors also use traditional techniques such as hand block printing and hand embroidery. This enables Indian locals to enjoy a sustainable income with practices they have carried out for centuries.
What’s more is that this business helps to support the Fior DiLoto Foundation in Rajasthan, North India, that aims to educate girls who would otherwise receive no education.
Rasaleela Clothing will be showcasing its latest wares at the Sydney Gift Fair this weekend, February 21-24. The Sydney Gift Fair is one of the largest industry events in Australia where the trends are set before they hit the shops.
For more, find Rasaleela Clothing on Facebook.
