Life and Work with Emelia Castro

Today we’d like to introduce you to Emelia Castro.

Emelia, please share your story with us. How did you get to where you are today?
About a year and a half ago, I was modeling around the Denver area and discovered that it was not my path, but I developed a deep love for fashion. After lots of thinking and second-guessing, I decided to take the plunge myself and go into the world of design. A few short months went by and I gave birth to my company Freakish Clothing, a streetwear brand that makes one of a kind garments for all of the freaks of the world. There have been many ups and downs, celebrations and tears, but it has been the greatest journey of all.

We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
The road could have been smoother. I did not go to school so I had to learn how to become a business woman along the way. I made lots of mistakes both big and small that have affected me and my business. But, each one of those mistakes led me to a great solution. My biggest piece of advice for young women when they are first starting off is to not be afraid of what you don’t know. There are plenty of things to learn as you go and it can be daunting at first but take that plunge and don’t look back.

So, as you know, we’re impressed with Freakish Clothing – tell our readers more, for example what you’re most proud of as a company and what sets you apart from others.
I specialize in design and sewing. I feel that my brand on the other hand, is best known for our one of a kind pieces. It creates something special about each item because once it is gone, it doesn’t come back. I am most proud of our ability to reach all sorts of platforms. We have worked very hard to be a diverse and welcoming company. A true freak can be anyone and everyone and we love that we can reach out to all.

Do you think there are structural or other barriers impeding the emergence of more female leaders?
I feel one of the biggest barriers today as a female leader is trying to be taken seriously. Not only am I a female but I am a very young one. When I walk into the room, people still look at me as a little girl not as a businesswoman. I have to be very loud, very confident, and very straight forward. It has taken a lot for me to change into a stronger person but it has made me an overall better businesswoman. Never be afraid of what people think of you, be concerned about what you think of you.

Contact Info:

• Website: freakishclothing.com
• Email: contactfreakish@gmail.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/freakish.clothing/
• Other: https://www.pinterest.com/freakishclothing/

Image Credit:
Kenzie Kraft, Emma Shiers, Kaylee Schulz, Tyla Chacon, Ivy Willoks, Sunina Ragnekar, Julia Eiffert, Cam Menlend

Suggest a story: VoyageDenver is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.