the IDEA!
Textile Republic was founded by Kimberley and Brian Osborne in the spring of 2007 to promote the work of aspiring textile designers across the globe. Like most innovations the idea was spawned from a problem. As a fashion designer, Kimberley tried to differentiate her work by using fresh and unique fabrics. However, after visiting fabric stores across the globe Kimberley became frustrated with the choices, or lack thereof. After seeing identical fabrics in stores thousands of miles apart she realized the industry had become corporate and global.
She approached her brother Brian for a solution. He suggested an online platform that would easily allow emerging artists and designers the chance to showcase their work. A few months later Textile Republic went live. As a unique interactive community, Textile Republic not only presents a forum for designers to show off and display their talent, but also provides them with a real chance to earn money for their designs. Every 4 to 6 weeks Textile Republic will select the most creative and popular (based on user voting) patterns to be printed by one of our reputable manufacturers all of which are internationally recognized for their superior digital textile printing. Designers whose patterns are selected to be printed and sold by Textile Republic receive $1,000 cash for their design and a 5% royalty on profits.
So come on, create an account, and show the world your talents!
the PEOPLE!
Kimberley Osborne holds a degree in fashion merchandising and design from Ursuline College and currently designs clothing and accessories under the label Kimberley Cristen, Ltd. See www.kimberleycristen.com for her latest collection. She currently is a professional model and is affiliated with Ford Models, Inc. www.FordModels.com and has appeared in a number of national commercials and advertisements for a variety of companies.
Brian Osborne graduated from Miami University in 2003 with a degree in Finance and Entrepreneurship. Additionally, he studied International Business at the Miami University European Center in Luxembourg. Brian is currently a principle at Parkstone Capital Partners, a private equity firm that focuses on alternative real estate investments.
