My name is Julissa and I am an active Thrifter aka I go to the Thrift Shop more than I should! I can spend hours in the Thrift Shop. The thrill of searching through used goods to find treasures is so fun. My days of thrifting usually start off with Prayer and and a really good Iced Coffee. During my most recent trip, I stumbled upon a very unique piece. From the moment I saw it I could not take my eyes off it. The tag read Berek. It was a sweater vest and for some reason it was very intriguing. The sweater vest was neon green with some form of a checkered print with what looked like sequined daisies. Whatever it was my mind conceptualized it as something grand. It was a piece I had to have.
I wore the piece for the first time to work and everyone gave me a compliment. These compliments motivated me to learn more about the brand. I did some research and saw some of their other designs and immediately became obsessed! What I find most impressive about the Berek brand is their unique use of color and fabrics. It is evident that Berek is intentional about their creations. These Designers are truly dedicated to their craft. To make a long story short lets just say the brand has been creating magic through fabric since the late 1970’s.
I was fortunate enough to connect with the Berek brand. I was invited to visit the Showroom in New York City. I was extremely excited and praying that I wouldn’t lose focus surrounded by all the dynamic colors. As soon as I walked in the warm staff greeted me. As I waited to meet the CEO I was told I could check out the Showroom. I gravitated towards the vintage sweaters. The sweaters were beautiful and vibrant. The designs and fabrics used were breathtaking, I had never seen anything like this before. You can tell the sweaters are stored with care. These sweaters were over 30 years old but looked fresh from a 2024 photo shoot.
Browsing through this Showroom was quite emotional. Sadly Designers today do not create clothes like this anymore. The world of Fashion has become so commercial. Walking through the Berek Showroom felt like home. This atmosphere reminded me of the reason I fell in love with Fashion in the first place. It is an authentic space where true style and originality exist.
The moment arrived and I had the opportunity to meet Jack Zyman, Berek’s CEO and creative mastermind. From the moment I met Mr. Zyman is was all great vibes and tons of laughter. We sat down and enjoyed Tea. I had a chance to hear the story behind the iconic brand and its humble beginnings. In 1978 Jack Zyman graduated from High School and the Fashion Industry was the last thing on his mind. It wasn’t until his Uncle (Who lived overseas after World War II) approached him about selling sweaters. He decided to go after the opportunity and began selling sweaters to several buyers throughout New York City. It was here that Berek started, and from this the birth of the most stylish pieces launched. Today Berek makes a wide range of products – including sweater knits, jackets, dresses, pajamas, activewear, T-shirts, accessories. This brand is definitely one of my favorites be sure to check them out!
Thank You Berek!
Style Celeb 