Mera Silk was founded by Milena Raskovic and Ranil Kumar in November 2022, and was something they poured their hearts and souls into building.
It took two years to get the project started, beginning when Raskovic returned to New Zealand, who was thrilled to see it finally come to fruition.
One of Raskovic’s earliest memories of fashion and creative expansion dates back to the age of five. She was fascinated by her mother's clothing, and would often engage in playful experimentation, draping her garments in unique and imaginative ways to create her designs. She said she used to force her family to watch as she performed her own fashion shows.
Raskovic’s childhood was spent in both Belgrade and Auckland, and she would eventually pursue a bachelor’s degree from the University of Auckland in marketing and international business. She said that although opting for a safe degree, her thirst for knowledge and passion for diverse cultures led her to work and live in India for a significant portion of her life.
Upon venturing to Bombay, she had a fortunate encounter with renowned Indian designer, Narendra Kumar, sparking a passion within her for the fashion industry, leading her to embark on a journey in branding, encompassing fashion shows, styling photoshoots, and managing media relations.
These invaluable experiences led her to work outside of India, travelling to shows and photoshoots all over the world, including London, Geneva, New York, and Toronto. Through this, she acquired a profound appreciation for the artistry and innovation embedded within the fashion industry.
She finds herself drawn towards the industry's creative process and enjoys bringing her Mera Silk creations to life.
“On a daily basis, I am fully immersed in all aspects of running the business, from overseeing website management to handling administrative tasks and managing social media outreach,” said Raskovic.
The name Mera has a special meaning to Raskovic, meaning “measure” in Serbian, and “mine” in Hindi. The label is committed to ensuring sustainability is vital in all aspects of the business, using innovative materials such as recycled fabrics, biodegradable materials, and of course, silk. Mera’s garments are packaged and shipped in a way that strives to minimise the environmental impact and promote ethical practises.
Raskovic said that impact of e-commerce and social media on the business has been profound, enabling her to connect with a greater global audience. Although digital platforms, Mera Silk’s products have been sold in Australia, the United States, Dubai, and New Zealand. However, whilst it has given her an extended outreach, it has come with its fair share of challenges.
“I have observed that some customers still prefer the tactile experience of trying on products in person, especially when it comes to more luxurious items like silk. Nonetheless, I strive to strike a balance between the convenience and accessibility of online platforms while still providing a personalised touch to ensure my customers' satisfaction, regardless of their location.”
In the future, Raskovic plans to expand Mera Silk’s audience through wholesale channels, and it is her heartfelt desire to see original designs on the shelves of boutiques around the world. There are also plans to open a flagship store that can serve as a physical embodiment of the brand. She hopes this will provide customers with an immersive and authentic experience showcasing its quality products.
Driven to broaden its reach, Raskovic aims to achieve this through strategic collaborations with retail partners who share the same values and ethos. Her goal for the year is to have Mera Silk stocked in various retail locations, and she is actively working towards this objective.
“Our commitment to sustainability and ethical practices will continue to underpin everything we do, ensuring that our brand is synonymous with responsible and conscientious fashion. In all our endeavours, we remain dedicated to creating luxurious silk products that are a joy to wear, and we look forward to achieving these goals with the support of our valued customers.”
The designs at Mera Silk come from the heart, with Raskovic stating that her biggest influence has been her mother. The Mira dress in her collection pays homage to her mother as its namesake. She is also drawn to the minimalist aesthetic from the 1990s, such as Carolyn Bessette Kennedy and Kate Moss.
These influences have shaped her perspective on fashion as she navigates the world of style and design.
For more information or to become a stockist email hello@merasilk.com or visit www.merasilk.com.
