We are excited to introduce to you Carol Humtsoe, fashion model and FARA muse, from Nagaland in the North East of India.
We met Carol in Goa a few years back now and we not only love working with her on our FARA shoots but have also always admired her unique style, off camera.
Carol has a passion for vintage and is dedicated to supporting slow fashion which she shares though an an inspiring and carefuly curated collecttion of thrift, vintage and upcycled clothes at Carols Shop.
Vogue India, amongst other publications, recently featured Carol which speaks of her current influence towards a more sustainable and circular fashion, something which is still relatively new in India.
We chatted with Carol to learn more about her background, journey and vision.
Can you share something about your roots and how they inform your style and relationship to fashion?
I grew up in a small yet busy town called dimapur in nagaland, I belong to the lotha tribe which is one among the 16 major tribes. My style is a reflective of growing up close to nature and from a culture that is vibrant and woven in folklore – I enjoy being a free spirit and my clothes follow that vibe.
When did you discover your love for vintage and upcycled fashion?
We had access to thrift since we were young but it was after I started modelling that the idea of exploring the world of sustainability and fashion intrigued me. I realised its value and space in our world and I already knew how to navigate it as a result of my experiences.
Tell us about the vision behind Carols Shop?
We are looking for new ideas to make sustainable fashion more rooted and relevant and we continue to promote, not only slow fashion, but also slow and mindful living.
Although you are currently based in Goa we know you love to travel. Which places have inspired you the most and where are you longing to go next?
I visited a village in Pokhara, Nepal, some years back and I felt a wonderful sense of belonging, seeing people who are not in a race with time and have found joy and colour in nature. I experienced the same sense of lightness when I visited another village in Kashmir recently and these experiences speak and stay with me as inspiration. Next I want to visit the dawn lit mountains in Arunachal Pradesh and explore some parts of the Lakshadweep next.
Why is sustainable fashion important at this time?
We are living in the best and worst of times and the Earth, as we know it, needs our participation to do our bit to save it and this, I feel, is one of the ideals that drive me.
Can you give any tips for readers wanting to shop more sustainably?
I feel the happiest when my clients find a piece that they are excited about because it will get more wear. It is important for buyers to choose and pick up pieces that they really love so that they will use it for maximum wear.
Visit Carol’s Shop.
