Like others during the Covid-19 lockdown, sophomore Chloe Ayissi-Etoh was a bored student looking for something to keep her busy. For her, the solution to boredom was sewing. Despite never having sewn before, Ayissi-Etoh learned techniques from a couple of her family members who had been sewing for years. Ayissi-Etoh would eventually turn this fun hobby into a successful business called Chlolaná.
The student-owned fashion company Chlolaná has grown in popularity and amassed considerable profits as a result of the devotion and creative mind of Ayissi-Etoh.
Chlolaná aims to create semi-luxury clothing that can act as alternatives to more expensive pieces, while still providing a hand-made, high-quality feel. Chlolaná pieces can be worn as upscale, everyday items and feature unique styles and designs.
Ayissi-Etoh first started sewing to create clothes to wear since it was cheaper than buying from stores. However, as her eighth-grade year came around she began receiving compliments and realized that it would be possible to monetize her pieces by selling them online. “It never clicked to me that I could make money off this and I was like ‘maybe I should start a business’,” Ayissi-Etoh said.
Ayissi-Etoh’s success is due in part to the time and effort she puts into her business, which is exemplified by the detailed, elaborate designs she creates. Those who have worked with her have noticed the professionalism and efficiency of the company’s events, including photoshoots and showcases. “I see her having a lot of success because she has put so much effort into it, ” senior K Shabardina said.
Ayissi-Etoh is now responsible for the production, marketing, and sale of all of the clothing, and she has an appreciation for those who have helped her along her journey, many of whom are also students. Her fellow students and friends have supported her by volunteering to act as models for the company’s photo shoots, which showcase Chlolaná’s newest clothing. “All the help I got was from people from Wootton High School, people of the young generation. I just really love that,” Ayissi-Etoh said.
Ayissi-Etoh’s extreme devotion to her company has not come without challenges. During 2021, her workload had taken a physical toll on her, even sending her to the hospital for a brief period. “Chloe cares about that company more than she cares about herself. I’m not kidding,” sophomore Urielle Ngako said.
Ayissi-Etoh has ambitious hopes for the future of her company, hoping to bring in $20,000 in the next five years. Ayissi-Etoh is looking to grow her company by acquiring endorsements from celebrities and social media influencers. “I just want to continue to build my brand and social media,” Ayissi-Etoh said.
Chlolaná has become a massive part of Ayissi-Etoh’s life that she wishes to advance even further in the coming years. “I just never thought I was going to love something that much,” Ayissi-Etoh said.
