Fashion entrepreneur, social commerce innovator, television personality, and author Christos Garkinos tells his story of red carpets, rock bottom, and fashion's fiercest comeback in his first book, Covet the Comeback.
For future business moguls and dreamers of all kinds, his is far more than a must-read redemption story. It's a masterclass in learning that we all fall down—and how to get back up in style.
Born to Greek immigrant parents in Detroit, Garkinos worked with industry giants including Disney and Virgin Megastores before launching his own successful fashion line on HSN. He was a pioneer in the luxury resale business and the star of a Bravo TV show. Garkinos has been featured in Vogue, Harper's Bazaar and The New York Times and founded Covet by Christos, a $100 million luxury live-streaming network and community platform. He lives in Los Angeles with his husband, Rolland.
We interviewed the author about launching his first book, his creative process, and what led him to choose the indie publishing path.
You're an entrepreneur, a fashion mogul, and a reality TV personality. What made you decide to add author to that list and write your first book?
Across my entire career, I have been a storyteller first. While relating my stories as entertainment on my livestreams, people said I should write a book! So I got the hint and made it happen.
What made you choose the independent publishing route, and what do you love about being an indie author?
I love being an entrepreneur, and this felt right. I also have a built-in audience with my company, Covet by Christos. My connection with Legacy Launchpad has fueled my success. They got me. I also love being indie because I controlled the marketing (including a 15-city tour greeting thousands of people), and I could be nimble with the process.
How did you find the process of writing a book, and were there any surprises along the way?
It felt very natural. I have had more pivots than an ice skater, and it was amazing to break them all down in the book. The biggest surprise in writing everything out is how it all connected to being the son of a Greek immigrant.
What's your favorite part of your book, Covet the Comeback? Do you have a favorite anecdote included?
I was the head of marketing for the Virgin Megastore chain, and I had Cher be the guest of honor at the opening event. Can you imagine driving down Michigan Avenue with thousands of people with Cher while dressed in a red leather Santa suit? Well, it happened to me!
My favorite part of the book, though, is reliving working in my parents’ Greek diner as a young child. I started working at age 4, and I manned the old school register at 6 while standing on a milk carton. I waited tables, mixed drinks and got a crash course in being an entrepreneur!
From red carpets to red leather Santa suits—discover the memoir behind the mogul
What do you hope your readers take away from your book?
I think that no matter what age you are, you can make a comeback! I just turned sixty, and my life is the fullest it has ever been.
How was your experience launching your book and going on tour across the country?
It was incredible! The #stossquad showed up strong across 15 cities for this first leg of the tour. I loved meeting some for the first time and connecting with them in real life.
What author has most shaped your writing, and what authors are you reading at the moment?
I have always loved how my fellow Greek David Sedaris writes, and I wanted to infuse a sense of my own humor throughout my book. I have always loved biographies, so right now I am reading the memoirs of Graydon Carter, Keith McNally, and Barry Diller.
What’s something you had to learn the hard way?
Once your ego gets in the way, life becomes very difficult. It is super important to stay in gratitude!
