From Weatherfield to Hollywood: The Remarkable Journey of a Soap Star Turned Fashion Mogul
In an exclusive revelation, it has emerged that former Coronation Street actress Arianna Ajtar has successfully transitioned from the cobbles of Weatherfield to the glamorous world of high fashion, now dressing reality television royalty Khloe Kardashian. The 30-year-old entrepreneur, who once graced the screens as Olivia Radfield on the iconic ITV soap in 2018 and 2019, has built a thriving clothing empire that resonates globally.
Building a Fashion Empire from Humble Beginnings
Arianna Ajtar launched her brand, Mars The Label, as a teenager from her father's living room in Bolton, with a modest initial investment of just £3,000. This capital was painstakingly saved from working two jobs simultaneously: at the Perfume Shop in Manchester's Trafford Centre and a jewellery store in Bury, all while commuting to Liverpool University to pursue an acting degree. Her vision was born from a personal need, as she and her friends struggled to find stylish going-out attire that was not readily available on the market.
The brand quickly became an overnight sensation, compelling Arianna to drop out of university to fully dedicate herself to her burgeoning business. Today, Mars The Label generates a multi-million pound turnover annually and celebrates its tenth anniversary, a testament to her perseverance and innovative approach.
Dressing the Stars: Khloe Kardashian Embraces the Brand
This weekend, Arianna shared a social media snapshot of Khloe Kardashian adorned in a £66 polka-dot Sandra capri jumpsuit from her collection, proudly declaring the reality TV star a "certified MARS girl." Khloe was photographed wearing the outfit while out and about in the United States, highlighting the brand's international appeal and celebrity endorsement.
Authenticity and Inclusivity: The Core of Mars The Label
Arianna attributes her success to staying true to her roots and maintaining authenticity in a competitive industry. She criticises brands that chase trends or alter their identity merely to attract new audiences, stating that such strategies erode credibility. "Staying true to myself and to who Mars is and what she is to our girls is what has kept us ahead of the market with constant growth," she explained.
Moreover, Mars The Label stands out for its commitment to inclusivity, offering sizes from four to 20, a range often overlooked by competitors. Arianna notes that fashion has evolved to become more thoughtful and diverse, catering to a wider array of body types. She also appreciates the growing consumer consciousness towards investing in well-designed, quality pieces rather than disposable, low-quality garments.
Overcoming Challenges and Future Ambitions
Despite its success, the journey has not been without obstacles. Recently, the brand faced difficulties due to evolving tariffs with the US, but Arianna and her team persevered, finding resolutions to sustain global growth. Excitingly, they plan to open a warehouse in the US this year, further expanding their international footprint.
The business continues to operate from its headquarters in Bolton, employing over two dozen people. Arianna emphasises the value of remaining in her hometown, where she has assembled a talented team, reinforcing her connection to the community and the "Northern grit" that fuels her ambition.
A Supportive Foundation: Family and Community
Arianna credits her father for his unwavering support, even when he initially hoped she would complete her education. "I am grateful beyond words to have been raised by a dad who never tried to make me be someone I am not or go down a path I don’t feel passionate about," she shared, highlighting the importance of familial encouragement in her entrepreneurial journey.
From a small startup in Bolton to dressing Hollywood celebrities, Arianna Ajtar's story is a compelling narrative of resilience, innovation, and staying true to one's vision in the fast-paced world of fashion.
