Location: The Plaid Giraffe, Whyte Ave, Edmonton, A.B
" A global pandemic, but make it fashion. "
Ok, being silly aside, we really are fortunate to have some good come out of this pandemic. As a small business, we've had our share of struggles. Violaa Swimwear had a BIG WIN when we made friends with the owner of The Plaid Giraffe and were lucky enough to hand-make a collection of one-of-a-kind Face Masks for their beautiful boutique.
Our first time in a storefront! eeeeeee!
The Plaid Giraffe is deffs one of the most popular shops on Whyte Avenue.
They are known as the local's "go-to" shop for unique locally-crafted gifts, for over 16 years now! Violaa Swimwear is proud to say we were a part of the fam along with dozens of other artists, fashion designers, and business owners.
Covid-19 hit hard. Travel restrictions were in full effect, and bikini orders slowed right down. Fashion designer, Michelle Viola, didn't get discouraged. As a business owner, you're constantly having to adapt to adversity and come up with Plan B, Plan C, etc.
She let her creativity flow, just in a new direction, with Face Masks!
Her mindset; if we're wearing these everywhere we go, it should be stylish, should it not?
Michelle and her bestie Jess were shopping Whyte in their handmade luxury face masks when the owner of The Plaid Giraffe stopped them for compliments and of course, Jess had to brag that they were made by Michelle Viola herself.
Soon after Plaid Giraffe was asking for a custom collection to sell at the store!
Nothin' beats organic interactions and collaborations.
Fall and Winter in Edmonton Alberta are pretty chilly. We even saw babes were their masks outside once requirements were lifted!
The genius behind Violaa's Mask design is that you can cinch the side ties (which makes the fabric bubble in a cup shape for your nose and mouth) and use the adjustable ties to have it as snug or loose as you desire.
When everyone started having sore ears from masks tugging all day, we became even more popular because these masks can be worn 2 ways!
The other option opposed to behind the ears, is one tie is behind your head and the other is behind the nape of your neck. No ears, no problem. Everyone is included.
We care a lot about the planet and cringed at the thought of going through multiple disposable masks a day, for days and days on end.
It just made sense to have cotton masks you can clean and wash and re-use. And that matches your outfit. ;)
XX M.V
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