Inspired by the power of a gorgeous gown to boost self-esteem, CAROL CHEN, founder of dress rental service Covetella, is on a mission to make women look and feel beautiful. We chat in her new showroom about the brand’s special makeover, startup life and how to bounce back from failure.
You’re a serial entrepreneur who worked on a number of startups before Covetella. What has your journey taught you?
Being an entrepreneur is a lot like getting on a rollercoaster and going with it, even when you want to get off. The first startup I was a part of experienced rapid success then eventual failure. My second steadily grew into the millions, and the third never really took off. My fourth startup, Covetella, has been almost three years in the making and is still a challenge every day.
These experiences have not only taught me how to effectively run a business, but also helped me become more tenacious, resilient and resourceful. I’ve learnt that many people are willing to help you, and that the ability to adapt quickly and stay positive is key. Also, most things don’t turn out as planned, and anything is possible if you believe in yourself and are willing to put in the work to make it happen.
What inspired Covetella’s concept, and why choose Singapore as its launch market?
I fell in love with Singapore after doing a brief consulting project here and was looking for opportunities to stay. When I went back to Texas over the holidays, my mum asked me what I was going to do with all the dresses in my closet from my pageant days, so I decided to bring them back to Singapore to see if I could sell or rent them out.
Eventually, I discovered that most women here fall into two categories: those with closets full of special occasion dresses they rarely wear, and those who only need one occasionally. So I created Covetella as Singapore’s first fashion rental marketplace, and it all grew from there.
You’ve talked about Covetella making women feel beautiful. Tell us a bit more about that concept and your new showroom.
This story is from the December 2017 edition of EL Singapore.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the December 2017 edition of EL Singapore.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
Perfect Pearly Whites!
Knowing you have white, sparkling teeth beneath your lips is a sure-fire way to make you smile with confidence. If you've noticed your teeth looking more yellow than "hello" lately, perhaps it's time for a visit to a dental clinic for a teeth-whitening session.
Save your Spine at Work!
Sitting in an air-conditioned office has its benefits in steamy Singapore. But, long, sedentary days can play havoc on our necks and backs. Here, orthopaedic surgeon DR YILUN HUANG talks about spinal issues faced by office workers, and how to treat and prevent them.
Curry, Spice & Everything Nice
Craving a curry? Whether you're dreaming of a creamy korma or a biryani, the EL team went all in, indulging in everything from buttery parathas to tangy papdi chaat. We explored the best of Singapore's Indian dining scene, and trust us-these spots will spice up your life!
Is It Really Backed Up in the Cloud?
SARAH and BO PINEL of Tekkie Help break it to us that cloud storage is not a data backup. Here's why that's the case and how we can rectify the problem.
Finding Eco-Luxury In Fiji
Here's a destination that's often a little bit off the travel radar for people in our region - but definitely shouldn't be!
Festive Fashion Show!
As the year draws to a close, now's a good time to stock up on festive fashion. White Ginger has released a fab new line just in time for party season. Plus, it's hosting a fun multilabel fashion soiree so you can view the looks with tasty bites and a glass of vino in hand!
48 Hours in Patong
CHERRY LAI checks into the sparkling new M Social Hotel Phuket for a weekender full of food, fun and relaxation.
Ticket to Thailand
Are you physically here but mentally on a beach in Thailand? We've found destinations for two types of holiday-goers: one for someone looking for a place to chill, and another where you can also let loose!
Laying Out Memories Through Food
YASMIN, JESSICA and PEARL are the local co-founders of The Plattering Co. They share their favourite parts of doing business with each other and a few of their hobbies outside work hours.
A Musical Community
The new Pops Chorus and Orchestra at Marlborough College Malaysia (MCM) has students, parents, staff and even the Master involved. SIMON BURBURY tells us more - including where you can catch their performances.
