By: Marissa Ross
In this interview, we spoke with Christos Garkinos, founder of Covet By Christos (CBC), about his journey in the fashion industry and how he is bringing exclusive fashion apparel to his community worldwide. A seasoned expert in live selling from his experience with the television network HSN, Garkinos saw an opportunity to shake up the fashion industry by combining it with live streaming and took it to new heights. Garkinos curates items for his live streams through strategic partnerships with vendors and clients known for their unique selections, engaging personalities, and deep knowledge of fashion and luxury.
Christos, can you tell us about the journey of creating Covet by Christos and how it evolved from luxury vintage shows to a leading live-stream shopping channel?
This year marks my 25th year in fashion. I’ve gone from a shop owner to a Bravo personality and then to an HSN seller. It’s been quite a ride. I founded Covet by Christos (CBC) in 2018 as a trunk show business that takes vintage luxury on the road to underserved markets like Omaha, Detroit, and Kansas City.
What inspired you to launch “Live in the Closet with Christos” during the pandemic, and how did you pivot successfully in such challenging times?
As one of the pioneers, the pandemic forced me into solution mode. I went “live” each day at 5 p.m., starting with 8 people watching, and just kept at it. Now, we have over 200 hours of programming across the world monthly.
With over 3,000 guests and 2 million views, “Live in the Closet with Christos” has become a global phenomenon. What do you believe is the key to its success?
We have created a very interconnected community based on friendship first and love of luxury goods second. We travel the world together and tune in on a daily basis. Our lives are entertaining and elevating.
How has the rise of live-stream shopping influenced the broader retail landscape, and where do you see this trend heading in the future?
In China, live streaming shopping has become 30 percent of all sales. In the US it is less than 1 percent. We see huge growth potential.
Sustainability and the demand for pre-loved luxury goods are growing trends. How does Covet by Christos contribute to these movements?
I helped pioneer designer resale 25 years ago. The rise of luxury goods in general, has led to commensurate growth in the resale sector and; sustainability has been at the forefront of the growth.
Christos, as a seasoned entrepreneur, what are some of the biggest lessons you’ve learned from your successes and failures in the business world?
Just know that there will be great highs and some lows and keep the faith that your gut is taking you in the right direction
How do you stay motivated and inspired to innovate and grow in such a competitive industry continuously?
I love what I do and I equally love being at the forefront of live selling.
Can you share any pivotal moments or decisions in your career that significantly shaped the direction of your business?
The pandemic forced my hand. I was traveling to cities conducting trunk shows, and overnight, it was over. I launched Covet by Christos on March 23 2020, as the ultimate online pivot.
As an entrepreneur, how do you balance the creative aspects of your work with the operational and financial responsibilities of running a successful business?
It is not easy. The bigger you get, the bigger the responsibilities and the decisions behind them.
Christos, we’ve heard you have an upcoming book. Can you give us a sneak peek into what readers can expect and what inspired you to write it?
It releases March 23 2025 on the fifth anniversary of the launch of my business. You can expect 40 years of stories, spanning working for major companies like Disney, having Richard Branson for a boss to losing it all. It’s a story about redemption sprinkled with humor.
What advice would you give aspiring entrepreneurs?
Do not listen to the naysayers. Stay in solution and listen.
Published by: Martin De Juan
