Meet Erica Kim
Erica Kim was born in the US and now lives in Canada with her two sons. She works as an architecture professor full-time, apart from being a single mother. Instagram is just her favorite pastime, which is her "me time," where she tries on different garments. Dressing up is like therapy to her, and in her free time, she visits stores to try on different combinations. She spends a few hours with her friends discussing fits, colors, and combinations.
I was always busy and noisy, and I always wanted to visit the world of Crow. They manufacture their clothing in their little factory located in Ahmedabad, Gujarat, the western part of the country. An important aspect of their business is that they cut and sew after receiving the order; they don't hold onto inventory, which I love. Their values towards sustainability are commendable.
India was at the top of my list. The food there... Shaila would take me to some amazing restaurants, and I couldn't stop taking pictures. One thing you must try when you visit India is to try all types of food.
I first landed in Mumbai. I had so much fun visiting the fishermen's wharf, Sassoon Dock, Nita Mukesh Ambani Cultural Centre., flower market, and Dhobi Ghat, where they wash clothes. On day two, I left for Ahmedabad, where I was greeted with a garland. We went for a Gujarati lunch and spa at a heritage hotel. We took a train to Bhuj, where World of Crow makes all of their prints and organic cotton from. We spent the whole day visiting clusters, seeing the whole process of making the fabric, and meeting the makers. We also picked up some fabrics, and we headed back to Ahmedabad. There, we worked for five days, talking about fashion fabrics, everything. I visited museums, mosques, temples, the old city, and ate a lot of Indian food.
I understand clothing and love to mix and match. The only clothes I buy have to be versatile enough for me to wear in many ways. I always liked that Crow had options from classics to more fun, standalone pieces. When I visited India, I visited the weaving clusters, where all the fabrics are hand-dyed, dried, woven, and shipped to their workshop. That's where we did a lot of iterations on color combinations, prototypes, trials, fit tests. We took inspiration from their top 10 bestsellers and grew from there. I felt that just by adding new shades, it could look so different and refreshing for the customers.
I love everything about the collection; it's easy, fun, classic, and cool at the same time. It can be mixed and matched in so many ways, offering versatility for various occasions. We've incorporated prints, weaves, and solids, ensuring there's something for everyone's taste and style preferences.
- This is my top favorite. It's not only super soft and easy to wear but also incredibly versatile, suitable for any occasion from casual outings to more formal events. We have some complementary bandanas available to pair with it, adding a touch of flair to the ensemble.
- I've always had a penchant for checks, and World of Crow offers this skirt in a stunning indigo hue. When I came across the black version, I knew it was a must-have addition to our line. Its simplicity yet striking appearance makes it a standout piece in any wardrobe. Pair it with our retro shirt for a chic and timeless look.
- Living in Canada, where the weather tends to be on the colder side, I've developed a fondness for layering, a style choice I've mentioned numerous times. This smock shirt, crafted from organic cotton and dyed in natural colors, perfectly embodies my love for layering while providing comfort and sustainability.
- Lastly, the Pride of Crow Abstract is a personal favorite for its timeless appeal and versatility. Whether I'm layering up or down, this piece, made from handwoven linen, exudes a classic charm that never goes out of style. Its understated elegance makes it a wardrobe staple for any season.
As I reflect on my journey with World of Crow, from exploring their manufacturing process in India to experiencing the versatility and style of their collection, I'm filled with gratitude for the opportunity to delve deeper into the world of sustainable fashion.
Discovering the intricate craftsmanship behind each garment, from the hand-dyed fabrics to the thoughtful design details, has truly been an eye-opening experience. It's reaffirmed my belief in the importance of supporting brands like World of Crow that prioritize ethical production practices and environmental sustainability.
As I return home to Canada, I carry with me not only a suitcase filled with beautiful pieces from their collection but also a newfound appreciation for the artistry and dedication that goes into creating them. Each item tells a story – of skilled artisans, of timeless design, and of a commitment to making a positive impact on the world.
Thank you, World of Crow, for inviting me on this unforgettable journey. I look forward to continuing to support and champion your mission of fashion with a conscience. And to all those reading, I encourage you to explore the world of sustainable fashion, where style meets sustainability in the most beautiful of ways.