We share entrepreneurial stories to inspire great ideas...
Shaden Abushaera
Shaden Abushaera is the Founder and Managing Partner of HeraCloset. I am a Mom, Feminist, and Entrepreneur. I know how challenging it is to pursue your dream and start your own business because what I fear and hate the most are unfulfilled opportunities. I decided that I am no longer accepting the status quo. The dream was simple; create a new world of self-expression for independent local artists and to help them sell their creations in a meaningful way. Visit www.HeraCloset.com.
Fashion Labels Without Boarders
- April 29, 2020
- Contributed By: Shaden Abushaera
Tell us a little something about your business...
HeraCloset is an online platform that connects customers with their local brands, focusing on Arabic clothes & Khaleeji style. HeraCloset is a platform for emerging brands and inspired goods made for women. It’s a place where you can launch a custom store and discover local artisans, offering one-of-a-kind products not available on the market elsewhere.
Although eCommerce is growing rapidly in the MENA region, still there is enough room for growth. I found that there is a gap in the eCommerce industry and even in the Bricks-and-Mortar shops for Arabic Clothing and Khaleeji Look! In addition, there are no dedicated platforms to serve Independent local brands and customers in GCC and the Middle East, as well as their needs and designers.
This gap led to the rise of the Social media stores despite all the issues that both sellers and customers may face, such as customer warranties, poor return, and refund policies, and limited payment options. Also, logistics is another major issue that make online shopping difficult. But the major trade which all customers are looking for is one-of-a-kind products that are not available in the market elsewhere.
To meet a need, I built a platform exclusively for local brands and equip their owners with all the business resources they need to grow, this is a completely new concept. So basically, HeraCloset strives to bind consumers to their local brands.
In order to simplify the customer experience, as well as to enrich and enhance the business of local brands, I came up with the idea of HeraCloset Online.
When was your lightbulb moment?
Technology and the rise of eCommerce along with the increased purchase power of people all have contributed to the increased demands for larger varieties and more diverse options of fashion. Globalization has made it easier for fashion trends to be demanded globally. From here, the idea of HeraCloset crossed my mind because we’re looking for instant gratification. As consumers we are looking to book book directly for products and services andI thought, let’s get on with it. So, if you’re looking for Adorable Abaya, go to HeraCloset.com. With this platform I can take the khaliji and Arabian fashion globally and spread it all over the world.
In Ancient Greek mythology, Hera represents women, nurturing, and watchfulness, while possessing luxury and beauty. HeraCloset was launched in October 2018 with 10 local brands that were being shipped all over the UAE. Today, there are more than 100 brands selling on our Platform, with products being shipped globally.
What are your three words of advice?
My first word to every entrepreneur: It does not matter how slowly you go as long as you do not stop.
Embrace your failure and use it to stand up again. The customer is most important.
Why? As a startup business, resources and funds have always been limited, therefore as an entrepreneur you need to know when you have setbacks in business to keep going rather than giving up. The challenge is to learn from each other to improve skills and decision making, rather than let failures get you down and reduce your chances of ever achieving success.
The best entrepreneurs and business owners have experienced failure multiple times before bouncing back to a level of achievement they only dreamed of. The most vital thing for each business owner should be to remember the customer.
Three words of advice...
Do not stop!
Shaden Abushaera is the Founder and Managing Partner of HeraCloset. I am a Mom, Feminist, and Entrepreneur. I know how challenging it is to pursue your dream and start your own business because what I fear and hate the most are unfulfilled opportunities. I decided that I am no longer accepting the status quo. The dream was simple; create a new world of self-expression for independent local artists and to help them sell their creations in a meaningful way. Visit www.HeraCloset.com.
“May your legacy create a footprint of success for the next person who steps into your shoes”
