As if life wasn’t challenging and complicated enough, along came this pandemic to just shut shit down! Urgh… thinking back on it now, the feeling in my stomach is no bueno.
Never have I ever been so pushed to reassess and realign myself, as a creator, as an entrepreneur, as a woman.
As most of you know, although I am based in Trinidad & Tobago, majority of my production is done in Brazil. Both of these countries are home to me and both were hit extremely hard with life changing restrictive measures in place.
I stayed hopeful, and faithful as my customers are from around the world and not all countries had the same restrictions. I thought that my international online business model and stock would have kept me going…and it did, until it didn’t lol.
It worked wonders until it was time to design and manufacture again. So many challenges...
Everything from multiple lockdowns both in T&T and Brazil, basically stopping production sooooo many times, to staff health scares, to delivery delays, to crazy increase in prices, to unavailability of materials, to strikes, to protests, to exhaustion, to lack of drive, to having to sacrifice my creative process which has always been sacred to me, and adapting to doing it all virtually.
Sigh… I honestly had quite a few moments when I questioned my willingness to continue doing this under such circumstances. Artists need freedom to create and as a creative, being “locked down” in itself was punishing enough but then the back to back challenges, the lack of incoming income, the stress, the anxiety, the negativity, the difficulty all became a far too heavy burden to bare.
Then one day I just gave up… I was tired, not just physically, but emotionally, and even spiritually. It was all just too much… so I gave up. I gave up the fear, I gave up the need to control things that were out of my control, I gave up trying to place deadlines and timelines, I gave up the expectation of any outcome, I just gave up swimming against the current…and let go. I just went with it… whatever and however it was… I just let it be.
And today I am writing this blog about the yucky part of my story yes , but more importantly about how I gave up to win. Life doesn’t always go according to plan, and I have no idea what the new norm is going to be, or what the future of small businesses is going to be, but I do hope that if you have come to my website, and taken the time to read this blog, that you continue to support us small businesses, because at the end of the day…we love what we do… and fight hard to do it for you.
Love,
Chan
]]>Having lived in the US, fast fashion seemed to be a normality. I mean think about it, the cutest little outfits for a super cheap price. You never had to wear the same one twice.
It was only when I enrolled in Fashion Design school that I learnt about the horrible, negative and heartbreaking effects of fast fashion. It trickles all the way down and hurts everyone along the way. It is common knowledge that designs are often times copied from genuinely talented up and coming, and even very established designers. They are produced in sweat shops, for cents. It hurts the planet. There is a great documentary called "The True Cost" on Netflix that I always recommend as a watch.
This is exactly why I have been so very pro shopping local, consciously and sustainably. While there are still challenges, I have always had ethical fashion practices at the forefront of every decision I have made as a fashion designer and entrepreneur.
My goal has never been to judge or knock someones' hustle, but simply to encourage you to become more conscious consumers.
There are so many ways of implementing ethical and sustainable practices as business owners, as there are ways of supporting the businesses that do. Little changes add up to big differences.
That is why we are proud to consider ourselves an Ethical Fashion Brand, that practices Slow Fashion. Shop Local, Shop Small & Shop Kind.
Love,
Chan
]]>Being an empath, I knew too well what the collective was feeling, but felt helpless in my contribution to make it better. In the past, clothing was always a fantastic confidence and self love booster, however, the lock down left us with no place to go.
So I decided to share the little tools that I used to stay healthy, maintain my sanity, emotional resistance and even just simply improve my mood. I was reluctant at first because this meant sharing my little sacred secrets, but I was constantly reminded that this was for the greater good of those in genuine need.
I have always been very drawn to plant medicine, and have lots of knowledge on it from my mother, grandmother and ancestors. Both sides of my family were always very connected to plants and nature on the whole.
For this reason I decided to use essential oils as one of the main ingredients of this Healing Tools line. Essential Oils is often referred to as the "Soul of the Plant" and is very well known for its healing and frequency boosting properties.
And so I first created toxin free, all natural, eco soy INTENTION CANDLES for the aromatherapy benefits of the blends. The act of also lighting a candle has for a long time been associated with spiritual practices that we all need for the soul. I added crystal chips, herbs and affirmation to the further activate those benefits.
Then came the SACRED SPRAYS with beautiful blends for specific needs, infused with crystals to further activate that purpose and affirmations to repeat when using. This is a quick frequency booster while on the go and can be used both on your body and as a room/car spray. It gives you a moment to breathe and affirm while surrounded by the all natural, scent blends and power of the plants.
ESSENTIAL OIL ROLLERS came next for the person who prefers an oil base for the blends. I created two kits with three rollers each. One very focused on the health and physical needs of the wearer specifically Immunity, Energy and Rest. Also infused with crystal to further activate those, these are usually most effective when rolled under the feet for better absorbency. The second kit was created as a beautiful all natural perfume option. Although these essential oils also do carry healing and aromatherapy benefits, they were created because they simply smelled great. This kit consists of Lily, Rose & Jasmine and Citrus a combination of grapefruit and bergamot. These are recommended on your wrists or back of your neck to really enjoy the scents.
Lastly, as crystals are clearly a part of all of these items, we created a line of GEMSTONE JEWELS. Beautiful, simple, gold-filled crystal pieces with very specific energetic benefits to the wearer. Benefits of each will be included in the product description.
This collection comprises of simple tools, to help find you ways throughout your day to put your health first, be it mental, emotional, spiritual or physical. These products all all handmade with lots of love and intention.
These are not meant to be medical alternatives. If you have any concerns please consult your doctor. If you experience any discomfort please discontinue.
I hope that these little joys can help you along your journey...
Lots of Love,
Chan
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a place of safety or refuge.
My Collection...Haven
If you know me personally or follow any of my social media sites then you are well aware of my love for the ocean. I feel like it brings me back to life, it recharges my soul, and cleanses my aura. It makes me feel brand new, every single time.
It’s my safe Haven…
I go there whenever I don’t feel like myself, or I am in need of inspiration, answers, relaxation, guidance, love…
And luckily for me, I always tend to find the most beautiful beaches to enhance my travel experiences. This was the inspiration behind my collection this year. The most beautiful beaches I have visited in all of my travels.
Buzios (Brazil), Tofo (Mozambique), Las Cuevas (Trinidad & Tobago), Negril (Jamaica), Ipanema (Brazil), Malibu (USA) have been by far some of my very favorites and my designs are inspired by them and my experiences there.
I hope that you enjoy the simplicity, vibrancy and elegance of each design.
P.S This collection was shot in paradise, also known as Las Cuevas in Trinidad and Tobago, in case you guys were wondering.
Love & Light,
Chandra
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I always have and I always will. Not only because it makes me feel elegant and tall, it also always gives me that Goddess feel I enjoy so much, especially if there is a little wind to help the cause ;)
I designed this one to be easy, and casual. It can be dressed down and worn to the beach or dressed up and worn to dinner, it’s your choice :)
Once you feel beautiful, thats all that matters.
Love,
Chandra
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Carnival Monday has now become a Majestic Monday, where full expression of beauty, and character is accentuated through fashion. Our collection brings to life the modern magic of characters from your childhood fairy tales, with a sexy edge and a fun twist for carnival.
Tales is for the modern-day fairy, the warrior princess and the fiery queen in every woman. Whatever your personal Tale or taste, there is a style preference for you to showcase your uniqueness on the streets of Port of Spain for Trinidad Carnival 2018.
Our goal was to make this collection beautiful, while still making your MondayWear options affordable for you.
We hope that you love them and we cant wait to see you on the road!
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The question of what, and how? Designing anything intended for the perception of others is a daunting task in of itself. There is doubt, and determination in equal capacity. The intent on manifestation is heavily dependent on that of pure determination, a hell of a lot of passion, and skin so thick it can't be cut with the most durable pair of fabric scissors.
Throughout this process a supreme level of respect was born for all costume designers. No matter how meniscal a roll or contribution, it takes the creativity, ideas and contribution of so much more than oneself to truly bring a vision of such magnitude to life. A blessing came in the form of mentorship and collaboration with Monique, a veteran designer and important contributor to the carnival industry, providing guidance and kindness from conceptualization to manifestation.
There were trials, and more trials. Like life, there weren't errors but rather lessons through the trials that breeds the experience of an intense carnival industry. Through it all the vision evolved, and shape shifted in many ways, and several times. There were methodical and not so methodical additions, and minuses.
However! What never changed was the purpose of the vision. Before her namesake was decided upon, from inception it was always to empower. A warrior goddess representing the honour and love for oneself, and the opulence of life. To create a costume that when worn, a warrior goddess emerges empowered with love, and pure excitement. With that she became FORTUNA!
An alluring glow of adoration and admiration has now veiled her with a definitive fate. She's undoubtedly coming to share that creative energy, and purpose shining through in rose gold. And may her fortune be with YOU!
]]>You'll find your vibrant day to night summer dress, movement and swing skirts, contemporary tribal swimwear with complimentary and versatile pieces.
This summer season is about the rich print combinations that compliment, and contrast. Liven up your style with eye catching prints, dreamy and nature inspired patterns. These looks are fun, trendy and taking over the fashion world with vibrancy, warmth and variety.
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The collection has been literally twisted while wet to bring to you "Velvet Crush"
This velvet is durable as the woman intent to wear it with a strong sheen, with its characteristics being expressed through her persona softly draped with a shimmering surface.
It's a revival of the 90s that has evolved beyond just dresses, tops and skirts with a stretch that provides optimum functionality. Incredibly stylish and cut to fit, and flatter a spectrum of body types. Swimwear is changing attitudes with velvet, bringing the opulence of the past trending forward to the future.
]]>Appropriately titled Goddess ( the driving force behind all that I do) I decided to go with a concept that will allow my masqueraders to purchase beautiful embellished pieces, that can still be functional and worn post and even pre carnival monday.
A concept that I has been in my heart for years and I am proud to finally see come into fruition.
Of course for the sake of options, and a variety of price points, designs and jewelry accompaniment varies from heavily jeweled for the masqueraders that truly loves to stand out on the road, to lightly jeweled to those who wants a little shine, but not enough to get in the way of their fun.
I therefore, designed some classic pieces in beautiful iridescent colors, such that the fabric itself plays a major role in the splendor of the pieces, and accompanied those classic designs, with gorgeous jewelry to give it that extra oomph that allows a masquerader to feel the glory and magic of Mas on Carnival Monday in their Chandra Maharaj Designs Monday wear pieces.
All of the jewelry offered is both detachable and optional at time of purchase.
The concept is that your Monday Wear now has the ability to evolve into multi-use party wear, and the same goes for your jewelry. Versatile fashion that makes your pieces timeless, and worth it.
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But for me, what makes it even more special is the love and excitement I feel from seeing masqueraders in my designs on the road. It is such a humbling experience and if you are one of those masqueraders, and you are reading this. I want to say THANK YOU, from the bottom of my heart THANK YOU!
Your support is so extremely appreciated. All of the personal messages of gratitude, all of the amazing pictures that I wake up to, all of the tags, the reposts, the recommendations, the continuous support, and the love. It makes my heart smile every single time. THANK YOU! THANK YOU! THANK YOU!
Now, I am not the best writer, but I do speak.... well in this case write from the heart hahahahahaha! I can only hope that you receive it as such.
Again, Thank You for continuously choosing my designs and supporting my brand... it is what keeps me going :)
I can't wait for you to see whats in store for next year ;)
So Much Love,
Chandra
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For my fantastic supporters that don't know what FeteWear is, an easy explanation would be festival attire, but more specifically focused on Carnival Parties, which tend to be either very hot from the tropical weather, or wet from parties that purposely wet you down with big hoses to keep you cool and add to the fun.
Either way the whole collection is made from supplex, which is the same fabric I typically use for my swimwear, which is very body hugging, flattering, comfortable, breathable and quick drying, making it perfect for any party :)
Scrunchy backs is one of the sexy details in this collection, only seen on both Zion the jumpsuit, Zion the set, Irie and Fete, this detail is extremely flattering, bootie enhancing and just the right amount of sexy.
Our Calypso off the shoulder piece focuses on the natural female silhouette, our Vybez Dress is our latest version of our Diamond back dress with that tropical twist, and Havana is our skirt set for the woman who wants to show a little extra skin. Check out the pieces ladies!!!
I hope that you guys love this one....it was made with so much love.
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I recently did (you should too), and it is heartbreaking....honestly, it hurts to be part of an industry that brings so much beauty to this life, yet, within it, has such an ugly sector that can be so catastrophic to humanity and this earth.
It was an important reminder of why I am not a fan of fast fashion, how it depletes the earths resources, leverages slave/child labor and why I try so hard to ensure that no matter how quickly my business evolves, that it never grows in that direction.
And so... I decided to write this blog to give you a little added insight on our ethical values, sustainable practices, and why shopping with our small business makes the world of a difference...or a difference in the world....literally.
Let me start off by saying that we are proud to be an ethical alternative to fast fashion, and we hope to inspire other small businesses and up and coming designers to do the same.
Transparency is extremely important to us, and we hope that this helps you understand why we do the things we do :)
After working with several small factories in Brazil, we made the decision to invest in our own. It is small, but it allows us to ensure the factory's integrity and ethical production practices is maintained at every step of the magic making process. This way, we can guarantee fair and safe workplace conditions.
We work with women and independent workers, offering fair living wages and creating economic opportunities for our team.
We use recycled fabrics, 98% material usage to 0 wastage and sustainable materials and processes.
We design and produce Limited Edition Collections to avoid dead stock, and only restock when the demand is so high that it will guarantee sales.
Our one of a kind pieces, or "few" of a kind pieces lol...are oftentimes if not always a result of recycled fabric use, or purchased dead stock materials.
Multi purpose, diverse and classic pieces are purposely designed to be worn in a variety of ways, making it timeless fashion vs a one time use fad or trend.
Female empowerment is at the heart of Chandra Maharaj Designs. It is a brand designed by a woman, for women who are beautiful and powerful, influential and life changing. We hope to spread this message with love, support, awareness, sustainability and positive change with every customer and piece of clothing that we sell.
Yearly, we partake in charity events and contribute to causes we believe in, or need us most.
We work daily on improving our processes, and contributions to a better world.
Every design is made with love...
Love & Light,
Chandra
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Being the Netflix addict that I am, I binge watched the entire series and it undoubtedly and magically became my next Monday Wear collection inspiration.
As early as April of this year (2007) my entire collection was finalized. It was the first collection I worked on while in Brazil for my annual production trip, and I couldn't wait to get it out of my creative system.
The sketches were drawn, the patterns were cut, the samples were finalized, and the search for the perfect fabrics was on.
Fast forward to a lot of searching, and a few months later, the iridescent fabrics that hold a special place in my heart were chosen in Miami, and shipped to Brazil where production immediately started. The end result is what you now know as my latest collection Tales.
Ella whose name was inspired by Cinder-Ella is a sexy twist to Amazon, a previous design of mine that was a sold out hit from my Haven Collection. This is the design I am wearing on the road for Trinidad Carnival 2018, and I designed it exactly as I wanted it for me. I hope that you love the high cut, high waist, adjustable bra, and minimal coverage bottom as much as I do.
Snow is our modern day Snow White as the name so blatantly tells. This iridescent white fabric and the simplicity of this one piece design is what makes it perfect for so many body types. It is quite sexy, yet it offers coverage in all of the right places.
Mulan is designed for a strong yet beautiful warrior. This piece has a bit of a more athletic design, for the woman that is more comfortable in a safer and fully functional fit. The neckpiece and sunnies in this design is the ideal added touch for our fashion forward warriors.
Jasmine is our elegantly sensual piece for the princess that likes to show skin in all the right places. It is our most adjustable piece as it allows the wearer to adjust the straps on the sides of the bottom as well as the shoulder straps. This ensures the perfect fit.
Beauty and Ariel are our two classic designs. Styles that never go out of style made in the most beautiful white and gold fabric. These two designs are specially ideal for women with short torsos, that struggle to find the perfect fit.
Pixie and Tinker are our personal recommendations for all Fortuna masqueraders who are playing in Bliss with me and my section Fortuna. The lilac of these pieces matches perfectly to the lilac touch of the costume and would offer a lovely balance in color for the two days of Mas. These are for our fun fairies, with Pixie for the woman who love a versatile one piece that is elegant in the front and sexy in the back, and Tinker for the woman who enjoys a two piece look that is more fun and flirty.
I could talk about this all for days, so I will be doing a Live Chat on instagram soon to talk all about it. Follow me on @chandramaharaj if you don't already do so and stay tuned for fun updates and give aways.
I hope this blog helps give you a bit of insight on my process :)
Until Next Time!
Love & Light!
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Time flies when you're busting your ass building an empire I suppose...lol.
Anyways...back to business...I am here because it is time to post my Carnival 2019 baby...ALLURA! #ChandraMaharajDesigns
What a carnival year 2019 has been....AMAZING!
With some new friends along for the ride this year...I can honestly say I had the time of my life...and I have a feeling that they did too. We can't wait for 2020 to do it all over again...only bigger and better :)
I hope you guys like this pic....I love it and I think Essence loved it too, because they reposted it. YAY! Aren't the colors amazing?!
Anyways...it's almost time to show you guys what I have up my sleeve for 2020 #StayTuned.
Yours in Love, Light and Laughter,
Chandra
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This new market has been quite a challenge as I am still learning to meet every woman's needs...but my goal as a designer is to always try:)
I hope you guys enjoy this new collection, specifically designed for the curvy and confident woman...
If you have any suggestions or feedback, I would love to hear from you. Please feel free to email me at info@chandramaharajdesigns.com with your feed back :)
Love & Light,
Chandra
]]>I really just wanted to quickly say Thank You!
My heart has smiled so many times this year, but not more than it did every single time that I saw a masquerader exuding joy in their Fortuna costume, while gracing the roads of Trinidad and Tobago, spreading happiness and love. It is an indescribable feeling really, I am not sure that it would ever change. I hope it never does...it's incredible!
On top of playing for the first time ever in my own design, I was blessed to have some of my greatest friends fly from all over the US to play with me, and that just made it all so much better....getting to share this first time experience with the people I love most. I am so grateful!
I am already in the process of designing for 2019, and I can't wait for it to be even bigger and better!
I hope that you will join me again next year...:)
Love,
Chandra
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