Featured VentureMom- Karla Gallardo
Founded by two women and now Karla Gallardo is at the helm of Cuyana. Karla is a visionary entrepreneur with a passion for design and sustainability. Born and raised in Ecuador, Karla’s love for fashion and craftsmanship was cultivated at a young age, inspired by the rich cultural heritage of her homeland.
Karla’s journey took her from Ecuador to the fashion capitals of the world, where she honed her skills and gained invaluable experience working for top brands. But it was her desire to create something truly special—a brand that embodied her values of simplicity, quality, and sustainability—that led her to co-found Cuyana in 2013.
Cuyana, which means “to love” in Quechua, was born out of Karla’s desire to redefine the way we consume fashion. Frustrated by the culture of fast fashion and disposable trends, she set out to create a brand that celebrated timeless style and mindful consumption.
With a focus on high-quality materials, impeccable craftsmanship, and timeless design, Cuyana offers a curated collection of essentials that transcend seasons and trends. Each piece is thoughtfully crafted to last a lifetime, embodying Karla’s vision of creating a more sustainable and meaningful approach to fashion.
But Cuyana’s commitment to sustainability goes beyond its products—it’s ingrained in every aspect of the brand’s ethos. From responsibly sourced materials to ethical manufacturing practices, Karla ensures that every step of the production process upholds the highest standards of environmental and social responsibility.
In Karla Gallardo, we find not just the founder of Cuyana, but a visionary leader who is reshaping the fashion industry one timeless piece at a time. Through her passion, creativity, and commitment to sustainability, she has created a brand that not only celebrates elegance and style but also empowers consumers to make more mindful choices. As we adorn ourselves with Cuyana’s timeless creations, let’s celebrate Karla’s vision and embrace a more conscious approach to fashion and consumption.
How Cuyana Gives Back:
“We partner with H.E.A.R.T., a nonprofit organization dedicated to helping female victims of abuse, by donating apparel and accessories to their mission. Together with thredUP, we are able to collect and give preloved Cuyana pieces to individuals in need.”
VentureMom Tip
Create a product that lasts.
