Royal Head Wraps Representing UK at Africa Fashion Week
Royal Head Wraps – this African inspired fashion clothing brand is making waves on both sides of the Atlantic and is to be showcased at The Africa Fashion Week in London this August. Owner, Primrose Panglea had never sewn before launching the business – she taught herself to sew using You Tube tutorials. Launching the business with just £200, the online retailer now boasts an annual revenue of over £27,000 on Amazon UK and over $197,000 on Amazon USA.
“I smile with pride as I watch my young daughter model the clothes I have learnt to sew, a natural in front of the camera. The sewing machine I taught myself to use, glints at me from across the room. I can’t believe how far my business has come – from launching my business with just £200 and never having sewn before, in just a few months time my work will be showcased at The Africa Fashion Week in London.”
Primrose previously worked as a security officer at Heathrow Airport for 7 years. Growing up she had watched in awe as her mother effortlessly hand-made clothes in bright, tropical colours. A desire to draw on this talent, Primrose bought herself a sewing machine and with the power of You Tube tutorials, taught her self the skills to launch her business. The range of clothing now includes sophisticated vibrant fashion wear including dresses, head-wraps, blazers, skirts and a range of men and children.
The astute business woman, who lives in Windsor, home schooled her children while launching her business. Sometimes working for 30 hours straight to keep up with demands. She carefully tested the market with her products, using her You Tube Channel to showcase her work, and built up a trusting relationship with her followers. As well as making head-scarves, she branched into making jewellery and other clothing. “I taught myself to use the technology and a camera to take the photography of my products. Everyone in the family is involved – my children and husband help out with modelling the products.”
Primrose and her family were fortunate enough to take a year out from the business and travel to Cape Town, Thailand and Malaysia. Of course, the work never really stops, and whilst in Thailand, Primrose drew inspiration for her designs and even took the opportunity to use her travels as a background for modelling shots.
The clothes and head wraps are made using traditional African fabric. The sister company, Hybrid Fashionista, carries clothes inspired by many other cultures but still using African fabrics.
The secret to her success? Primrose, age 40, believes honesty and kindness help build her customer base. On her You Tube Channel she broaches subjects such as mix-race marriage, birth, death and home schooling. A desire and inner grit gave her the edge to learn the skills required to pursue her business.
“I believe in kindness. I always take part in Random Acts of Kindness and I was awarded a British Citizen Award by the Houses of Parliament in 2015.”
You can see Primrose’s work at http://www.royalheadwraps.com
Primrose is available for interview or comment.
High res images available of request.