Welcome!
Inspiration to launch Maru came from a trip to the volcanic island of Bali back in 2017. Only 22 at the time, I stumbled across our timeless fabric in the neighbouring island of Java. Hauling three rolls on to a questionably stable ferry and waving goodbye to our first business partner, I set off back to Bali.
Living with a skilled local family at the time, I built them a template for a kimono and asked them to produce a few samples for me to take home to London. Recognising their instant success, I jumped on a plane and flew back out to discuss a potential partnership. Since then, through my annual visits to the island to source new ideas, I’ve been able to ensure our company remains ethical and watch our businesses grow together.
Our brand:
Our name, Maru – Japanese for full circle, remains at the heart of our store.
After noticing pretty quickly how simple it was to bring culture, sustainability, diversity AND luxury all at an affordable price to the fashion industry, we formed our brand.
Now our small team here in London is on a mission to use Maru as a platform for change - Encouraging diversity and authenticity every step of the way from our models to our products.
Sustainability:
Four years later, we’re now in a position to use our company to give back. Each month we’ll be donating 8% of our monthly profits to two different charities, Bali street mums and Sumatran orangutan Society. Two non-profit organisations that look after impoverished families and the Sumatran rainforest. You can read a little more about the outstanding work and were your money is going on their websites:
https://www.globalgiving.org/donate/2840/sumatran-orangutan-society/
Collaborations:
Maru is regularly looking at new ways to develop and expand - We’ve partnered with some bright minded creatives over the last two years, in places such as Barcelona, New York, London and Columbia. Hotel Amarla in Cartagena offer our kimonos as bathrobes to overnight guests who have even been caught walking the streets of the old town in them! We love to collaborate and support other business so don’t be shy, come say hi!