Today we’d like to introduce you to Carolina Benoit
Hi Carolina, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
My journey began with a deep passion for art and design from a young age. Growing up, I was always sketching and experimenting with different materials, which led me to pursue a degree in fashion design. at Parsons. During my studies, I immersed myself in various aspects of the industry, from textiles to pattern-making, and I interned with a few notable designers, like Ralph Lauren and Vera Wang, gaining invaluable experience.
After graduating, I took a bold step by launching my own collection, focusing on sustainable fashion. This decision was driven by my commitment to environmental issues and a desire to create pieces that not only looked good but also made a positive impact.
As my brand began to gain traction, I had the opportunity to showcase my work at various fashion events, and won the Miami fashion week’s designer of the year award, which helped me connect with a broader audience. Collaborations with other artists and brands also played a significant role in expanding my reach. Today, I’m proud to have established a name for myself in the industry, focusing on innovative designs that marry style and sustainability.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
One of the biggest challenges I face today is competing with large fast fashion chains that copy our designs and mass-produce them in ways that we simply can’t match. This year, one of the saddest moments for me was seeing my seashell charm necklace gain traction on TikTok, only to discover it was being copied by a mass production brand. While my necklace is priced at $200, we pick the shells in Captiva Island, we hand drill each shell, hand paint each shell,and the process of making each piece is very detailed, theirs was available for just $22.
Although some customers value the originality and craftsmanship of my piece, I know we lose a lot when mass production chains replicate our designs. This trend can be incredibly demotivating, but I remain hopeful that, as designers, we can work towards change in the industry. It’s crucial to advocate for the value of originality and support sustainable practices, as they truly reflect our creative spirit.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
Of course, sustainability is a key aspect of my brand identity—I prioritize deadstock, bamboo, and other eco-friendly fabrics more than many others. However, I also want to be known for my designs beyond their sustainable credentials. My collections are deeply personal. For instance, our key necklaces are inspired by childhood memories and my grandfather’s key collection, while our fragile hearts necklaces draw inspiration from my daughter Rose, who was born with a hemangioma in the shape of a heart on her neck. Many people ask if I will have it removed, but I see immense beauty in her birthmark and chose to create a collection that honors it.
In addition to our jewelry, we also have a resort line that launches once a year and a sleepwear collection. I’m eager to continue engaging with my customers to understand their needs and desires, allowing me to evolve the brand in harmony with their rhythms rather than solely my own.
Is there a quality that you most attribute to your success?
I like to say that my brand motto is “romanticize your life,” and I truly live by these words. I strive to bring beauty into my life and the lives of others, always seeking the best in every situation and maintaining a sense of hope. I never give up, and I constantly find ways to make my work shine through. This mindset is essential to my success and helps me connect with my audience on a deeper level.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.carolinabenoit.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/carolinabenoit_shop
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Carolinabenoitshop
- Other: You can also follow the designer BTS here: carolina_shoval
