THE DESIGNER
Sofia Karakousi is the designer behind womenswear label KARAKUSI and swimwear label Rhombus. Sofia’s affinity for fashion began early on. After completing her first degree in fashion in Athens she continued her studies in London were she was selected to show her final collection at Graduation Fashion week in 2007. While she worked as intern for Alexander McQueen, Peter Piloto and Roland Mouret she developed her own skills and talents. Soon she launched her own label KARAKUSI which gained early success. Although she has lived and worked in different cities of the world, such as London and Berlin, who are both known as fashion and art capitals, she always wanted to taste the slow rhythm of a boisterous life. Moving back to Greece gave her the appreciation for finding peace and starting a new label emphasizing on swimwear and resort apparel KARAKUSI and RHOMBUS.
BRAND PHILOSOPHY
Karakusi’s philosophy is to produce a framework for each woman’s individuality by making clothing that unveil a strong female voice from within. Sofia manages to balance between methodology and spontaneity; designing her women collection both as a methodist and a dreamer. Her abstract almost conceptual approach in mixing classic minimalism with eccentric tailoring cultivates a sense of excitement with fine detailing and unorthodox shapes and silhouettes; creating a wardrobe that is interchangeable and versatile.
Karakusi’s outwear is fundamental to every woman’s complex lifestyle and character. Her resort wear line KARAKUSI RHOMBUS, was born from the idea of the Greek summers which is all about endless sunshine, island hopping , never ending nightlife and relaxed mood. The glorious Greek sun is beneficial and revitalizing for everyone, when you look at the sun directly with no glasses on, the sun burns you and you experience a temporary blindness, but you are not in the dark , thousands of colors and shapes appear in your eyes , your vision is smashed to small rhombic shapes , creating a kaleidoscopic sight.
Rhombus is an indicative of a journey of that particular moment. KARAKUSI always pushing for the best quality . All collections are made in Greece , using for the swimwear the best Italian textiles with UV and chlorine protection , all trimmings has been chosen carefully from Italy and Greece and all prints are designed in house and produced in Holland .
INSPIRATION
Karakusi finds inspiration everywhere. Every collection is a depiction of a memory lived. She combines experience with future goals. Her collections portray the expression of the individuals in the comfort of their natural or local environments. Her boldness and rebellious spirit are always present when she decides to work on a new collection. Each collection is created so as to push the boundaries of new materials and sustainable concepts.
WHERE TO FIND IT
Rhombus collection can be found in selected designers boutiques in Greece and via e-shop www.sokarakusi.com