Our Story

Kariella

Welcome to Kariella

Kariella began as the childhood dream of founder and Ojai native, Amara Bessa. Her fashion journey started at sixteen on the retail floor of BCBG, where she first fell in love with the rhythm of styling, people, and personal expression. Over the years, she honed her eye as a visual merchandiser for Donna Karan, Forever 21, Tiki Girl, and Nordstrom, eventually becoming a buyer for ANGEL, a Wendy Foster boutique in Montecito.

After fifteen years in the industry, Amara launched Kariella from her garage in Bend, Oregon with one simple intention: to help people feel confident in their own skin. What began as a small, heartfelt venture quickly took on a life of its own — her first brick‑and‑mortar store opened just three weeks later, and the brand has been growing ever since.

Today, Kariella is a modern bohemian boutique rooted in the free‑spirited town of Ojai, CA, offering an elevated mix of women’s and men’s apparel, accessories, and swim. Our curated selection brings together beloved brands like Free People, Perfect White Tee, Montce Swim, Frankies Bikinis, Alex Crane, Rails, and SECRID Wallets alongside our signature labels, Kariella and The Men’s Den.

What remains unchanged is the heart behind it all: a personalized, boutique‑driven experience designed for those who believe style should feel expressive, effortless, and uniquely their own.