Specialties
Founded in 2010, Kariella is a modern bohemian boutique featuring an eclectic array of apparel, accessories, and swim for everyday style. Brands like Free People, Frankies Swim, Tiare Hawaii, and Mint Jewelry sit alongside the shop's eponymous label, Kariella. The result is a highly personalized shopping experience that caters to women who believe that fashion should be both fun and effortless.
History
Established in 2010.
Kariella was founded on a dream I've had since I was a little girl, which prompted me to name my shop after my little princess Kariella. Playing store was a regular hobby of mine as a child growing up in the small town of Ojai, which soon led to sewing my own dress up clothes and eventually turned into a career in the fashion industry. I spent years cultivating my style working as a manager, visual merchandiser, stylist and buyer for large corporate stores as well as small boutiques . Every step of the way was a learning experience and has truly made me who I am today. I have always wanted to have the opportunity to share my love for fashion and sense of style with all those who surround me, I now feel truly blessed to be finally given this opportunity.
Meet the Business Owner: Amara B.
Kariella is the childhood dream of founder Amara Bessa. Her fashion career began on the retail floor of BCBG at the age of 16. She went on to work as a visual merchandiser for Donna Karan, Forever 21, Tiki Girl (formerly Tiki Lounge), and Nordstrom. Later, she became a buyer for Angel, a Wendy Foster store in Montecito.
After 15 years of retail experience, Amara launched Kariella in her garage in Bend, Oregon. Her goal was simple: To help women feel confident in their own skin. The success of that venture led Amara to open up her first retail store just three weeks later. And the rest is fashion history.
Today, the company has three storefronts in Bend, Oregon, Ventura, California and Ojai, California.