Karla Gallardo

Karla Gallardo is the cofounder and former CEO of Cuyana, a direct-to-consumer fashion brand recognized for its philosophy of "fewer, better," which emphasizes timeless design and sustainable practices in the apparel industry. Under Gallardo's leadership, Cuyana has become a prominent advocate for responsible fashion, focusing on quality over quantity and encouraging consumers to invest in long-lasting, ethically produced pieces. Gallardo's approach has positioned Cuyana as a leader in mindful consumption and elevated essentials within the sustainable fashion movement. Cuyana means “to love” in Quechua—the language of the indigenous artisans who crafted our first collection of Ecuadorian hats. Gallardo stepped down from her role as CEO in 2025.

Throughout her career, Gallardo has been noted for her approach to entrepreneurship and her commitment to sustainability. She has guided Cuyana through growth, expanding product offerings and retail presence while maintaining a focus on ethical sourcing and transparent supply chains. Gallardo's expertise in business strategy and brand development has been featured in major industry publications and at industry events, where she shares insights on building purpose-driven companies and the evolution of sustainable fashion.

Gallardo is a public speaker who addresses topics such as ethical manufacturing, scaling values-driven businesses, and the complexities of sustainable supply chains. She provides practical advice and thought leadership to entrepreneurs and industry professionals, contributing to ongoing discussions about sustainability, innovation, and conscious leadership in the fashion sector.