MEET THE FOUNDER
We catch up with Jana Kachel, founder of Australian fashion label KACHEL and find out how she has maintained success and longevity in the fickle fashion industry.
Tell us about Kachel and your business journey.
In 2007 KACHEL was born as a result of my background in children’s fashion and passion for combining art and fashion. Although I enjoyed working with childrenswear, I had a strong desire to transition into designing womenswear. I was drawn to the bright, colourful and playful nature ofchildrenswear and believed there was a gap in the market for feminine, vibrant prints in women’s fashion. Since the inception of the label in 2007, KACHEL has been successfully filling a void in the contemporary market. In 2013 Kachel expanded internationally firstly to the US market and has now expanded into the European market with its presence in Anthropologie globally. KACHEL provides original and exclusive print designs on beautiful silk fabrics at an affordable price. It embraces the idea that all pieces are versatile from day to night and constructed of the highest quality. Now in its 15th year, the KACHEL dream continues on embodying the spirit, energy and flavour of all the girls that love to wear it.
Where do you find your creative inspiration?
I base my designs off my overseas travels – discovering inspirations from past worlds found in museums, art galleries and vintage stores. Vintage prints and original artworks are sourced from all over the globe. KACHEL AW23 Reminiscence collection is a tribute to childhood memories, highlighting the importance of treasuring things that hold sentimental value and meaning. This collection is a celebration of a simpler life, where the things we hold dear and cherish are at the forefront of ourminds. The pieces in this collection are designed to evoke feelings of nostalgia and warmth, reminding us of the people, places, and moments that have shaped us into who we are today. With a focus on the things we love and hold dear, the AW23 Reminiscence collection is a timeless and meaningful addition to any wardrobe.
You have run a successful business for many years now, how do you maintain longevity in a changing fashion landscape?
KACHEL has always been about print from the very beginning. Exclusive print designs on quality fabrications . KACHEL has its own handwriting and I have also stuck this handwriting We are passionately committed to expanding our business in Australia and internationally. We currently have a strong international presence with Anthropologie in the US and Europe.
It’s super important to me that KACHEL is recognised and embraced globally as well as back home in Australia. Our team is always looking for ways to build and strengthen our business processes and adapt to the ever changing retail environment. We are committed to building new relationships and working with our incredible agents to expand KACHEL into new boutiques across the country, discovering new communities to adore KACHEL.
4. What do you attribute the success of KACHEL to?
My goal is to instill confidence in those who wear KACHEL. To achieve this, I strive to create timeless pieces that reflect a unique style rather than fleeting trends. I aspire to design wardrobe favourites that will withstand the test of time and continue to be cherished for years to come. In doing this I believe that we are providing affordable high quality items that you can continue to pull from your wardrobe time and time again, which our community responds so well to.
What has been the most challenging aspect of running your own business? My answer is likely to be similar to most business owners, I know we all feel it! You are always ‘on’ and constantly thinking about all aspects of the business, because the business is so important and something you have built and developed into what it is today. I know personally I have so much passion and love for the brand, it feels like an extension of myself so I tend to be protective over it which means I am always trying to work to ensure it is the best itcan be! I love what I do and find my job incredibly rewarding, however it is important to switch offand find time to relax outside of work without becoming totally burnt out.
Do you have any tips for budding entrepreneurs?
My one piece of advice would be to just give it a go! You can only learn from your failures, and you can’t fail without trying. I truly believe that if you have enough passion and determination, this will always outweigh the obstacles that come your way.
What’s next on the horizon for you and the brand?
We are currently moving into accessories in the US market which is very exciting
The next big project for KACHEL is a move into the accessory market in the US which as a team, we are working tirelessly on at the moment. I am so excited to inject the KACHEL brand into a new product line and give our community more options to express their individual personality and style.