Orders fly in to the 36 Boutiques headquarters on Adderley Street from trend-savvy customers across the country. CEO Gadija Gamieldien tells us what it’s like to run one of the country’s first online fashion emporiums.
CV: What are some of the local brands available on 36 Boutiques?
Thula Sindi, Loin Cloth and Ashes, Oh Dear Megan, Chica Loca, Amanda Laird Cherry and Urban Goddess, to name a few. We provide a complete technical and marketing infrastructure to local designers in order to create a strong national and international footprint for their brands.
CV: Do you have advice for locals interested in setting up tech companies in Cape Town?
Start with the end in mind, do your research and don’t forget that the consumer is your reason for being. It’s also worthwhile to get a foot in the door at large innovative organisations like Naspers that support local talent and nurture entrepreneurs.
CV: What is your future vision for Cape Town, and what does the city have to do in order to achieve it?
Cape Town is a city of possibilities. To invigorate economic development here there must be a drive towards constant learning and development across all sectors. It’s essential for our education system to align with the new era of technology that constantly reinvents itself, and it’s crucial to support local business to ensure that we become a breeding ground for future entrepreneurs. We also have to create a sense of urgency around environmental consciousness. An eco-friendly city will ensure that we preserve our natural resources for future generations.
CV: What’s the best thing about working in the Central City?
Our team has a mandate to hit the stores during the week and observe fashion on the city streets. Being situated on Adderley Street makes it easy for us to pop out to observe what Capetonians are wearing. It’s also great for retail therapy. I particularly enjoy shopping at Merchants on Long and the smaller boutiques on Long Street and at the Old Biscuit Mill [in Woodstock].
Want to revamp your wardrobe without leaving home? Visit 36 Boutiques online at www.36boutiques.com. You can also collect your purchases from 36 Boutiques at 11 Adderley Street. Contact 0861 00 00 36 for more information.