Building Kivari: From a Market Stall to a Multi-Channel Brand | Kiki Keysers
What does it really take to build a fashion brand from the ground up and scale it into a globally recognised, multi-channel business?
In this episode of Fashion Business Mindset, I’m joined by Kiki Keysers, Founder of KIVARI, to unpack the journey behind one of Australia’s most successful contemporary fashion brands.
What started with just $200, a handmade product and a market stall has evolved into a thriving business spanning retail, eCommerce and wholesale, with a loyal global customer and a strong, recognisable brand identity.
Kiki shares the real story behind that growth. The risks, the decisions, the mindset shifts and the discipline required to build a brand that not only scales, but sustains.
With Your Host, Elizabeth Formosa
Tune into the Episode:
This is an honest and highly practical conversation for founders navigating growth, complexity and the next stage of their business.
In this conversation, we explore:
How Kivari began, from a spontaneous idea in Bali to a market stall in Australia
The early decisions that shaped the brand’s trajectory, including retail, hiring and investment
The reality of scaling a fashion business across retail, eCommerce and wholesale
Why every channel must have a clear purpose in a multi-channel strategy
The importance of discipline across margin, product and operations in today’s market
How to evolve your product offering while staying true to your brand DNA
Building and leading a high-performing team as the business grows
Founder visibility and the role it plays in modern brand building
The mindset required to navigate growth, uncertainty and leadership
Why “confidence comes by doing” and how to move forward before you feel ready
Key Takeaway
Building a successful fashion brand isn’t about having everything figured out from the start.
It’s about taking action, backing yourself and building the confidence along the way.
About the Guest:
Kirstin-Lee “Kiki” Keysers is the Founder and Creative Director of KIVARI, one of Australia’s leading women’s fashion and lifestyle brands. What began as a small market stall on the Gold Coast has grown into a multi-million-dollar global business, known for its timeless design, effortless femininity and strong brand storytelling.
Today, Kiki leads a fast-growing team while continuing to shape the creative direction of the brand, building a business grounded in freedom, intuition and purpose.
About Fashion Business Mindset
Fashion Business Mindset explores the real stories behind fashion brands, retailers and industry leaders. Hosted by fashion business strategist Elizabeth Formosa, the podcast shares practical insights on leadership, strategy and building resilient fashion businesses.
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