Story & Lesson Highlights with Karina Castillo of Phoenix/ Scottsdale

We’re looking forward to introducing you to Karina Castillo. Check out our conversation below.

Karina, really appreciate you sharing your stories and insights with us. The world would have so much more understanding and empathy if we all were a bit more open about our stories and how they have helped shaped our journey and worldview. Let’s jump in with a fun one: What do the first 90 minutes of your day look like?
The first 90 minutes of my day are all about setting the tone. I start by taking a moment to stand outside, breathe, and just be present—it helps me clear my mind before the day starts moving. After that, I get ready, put myself together, and focus on feeling confident and grounded. It’s a calm, intentional start that helps me carry good energy into everything I do.

Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
Hi, I’m Karina Castillo, the founder and creative director of Castillo by Karina (CBK) — a fashion brand I started in 2018 that blends storytelling, craftsmanship, and emotion through every piece. CBK is all about individuality — creating garments that people can make their own while celebrating art, culture, and self-expression. Right now, I’m working on my next collection, the upcoming CBK Magazine, and a few exciting collaborations that continue to expand the world of CBK beyond just fashion — into community, creativity, and connection.

Great, so let’s dive into your journey a bit more. What was your earliest memory of feeling powerful?
My earliest memory of feeling powerful was when I realized how much individuality and fashion could shape who I am. Even at a young age, I understood that what I wore wasn’t just about clothes — it was a way to express my mood, my creativity, and my story without saying a word. Fashion gave me confidence and a voice, and that feeling of owning who I am through my style has stayed with me ever since.

Was there ever a time you almost gave up?
Yes, there have definitely been times I’ve almost given up. Sometimes it happens on a random Tuesday — those moments when I feel like I’m not doing enough, not creating fast enough, or that the designs and collections aren’t where I want them to be yet. But those moments always remind me why I started. I take a breath, refocus, and remember that growth and creativity take time. Every challenge becomes part of the story — and that’s what keeps me going.

Alright, so if you are open to it, let’s explore some philosophical questions that touch on your values and worldview. What are the biggest lies your industry tells itself?
One of the biggest lies the fashion industry tells itself is that constant production equals progress — that we have to keep creating nonstop to stay relevant. There’s this pressure to always be “in trend,” to release something new every season or every few weeks, as if slowing down means falling behind. But I believe true creativity takes time. It’s not about chasing trends; it’s about creating something meaningful, something that lasts. Fashion should reflect individuality and purpose — not the pace of a machine.

Thank you so much for all of your openness so far. Maybe we can close with a future oriented question. What do you think people will most misunderstand about your legacy?
I think people might misunderstand my legacy by assuming I did it for the fame or the money. But that was never the goal. I did it for the art — for the joy of creating something from nothing, for the stories behind each piece, and for the connection it brings to others. Every collection, every design, is a reflection of passion and purpose. My work has always been about expression, not attention.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.CastilloByKarina.com
• Instagram: @CastilloByKarina
• Twitter: @CastilloBKarina
• Facebook: @CastilloByKarina

Image Credits
@peaceful.Captions
Jose Alvarado
Marq Diamond
Arizona Fashion Week Media