Sabinna Rachimova has always been interested in craftsmanship and from an early age learned how to crochet, knit and sew from her grandmother. Years later, her passion became her job when she founded Sabinna, a conscious fashion label made in Europe. In this interview she talks about her first experiences in the industry, the challenges to build the right team and why you should build your own unique success story
Project M: What motivated you to launch the brand?
Sabinna Rachimova: I was always into handcraft, I learned how to crochet, knit and sew from my grandmother. Later, I became interested in fashion history and contemporary fashion design. I did my first internship when I was 14; I worked for an Austrian fast fashion company, sorting out their archive. Every job I had since then, and I had many, was connected to the fashion industry. After graduating from high school, I tried my luck and applied at Central Saint Martins and could not believe when I got accepted. By then I already knew, I was going to start a fashion brand some day.
Project M: What are the biggest challenges you have faced so far?
Sabinna Rachimova: Running your own business means facing all type of challenges every day. I would say the financial challenges are definitely the hardest. I need to make sure to plan ahead, generate enough cash flow, get sponsors where needed. Another challenge is finding the right people to join the team. It isn’t only about the skillset but also about the mindset.
Project M: What advice would you share with those thinking about creating a business?
Sabinna Rachimova: Be prepared to work hard! The best way to find out if something is working, is to try it out. And last but not least: Don’t try to copy an existing success story, see it as inspiration to create your own path.
Learn more about Sabinna here: www.sabinna.com