My name is Katerina Kyrtopoulou, and together with my husband Lucas, we are the co-founders of Real Days, a Greek clothing brand built on the values of gratitude, authenticity, and a close connection with nature. 

I was born and raised in Thessaloniki, but twelve years ago I moved to Ioannina for love.

What started as a life-changing decision soon became a love story with the city itself. Today, I cannot imagine calling anywhere else home. My husband and I share a passion for the outdoors. He’s a surfer, and together we embrace a lifestyle centered around nature, adventure, and meaningful experiences.

As parents to a five-year-old child, we are also committed to passing on values of respect, environmental awareness, and appreciation for the natural world. These same principles form the foundation of Real Days. Nearly three years ago, we set out to create something that went beyond fashion. We didn’t want to simply make beautiful garments; we wanted every piece to tell a story.

The idea behind Real Days was inspired by the everyday moments, memories, and experiences that shape our lives. Guided by our philosophy, Gratitude Every Day, we encourage people to slow down, appreciate the present, and find beauty in ordinary moments. 

Nature is deeply embedded in our brand’s identity. At Real Days, every collection is built around a central concept. We often draw inspiration from nature, animals, and the world around us, not just for their visual beauty, but for the qualities they represent.We believe that nature carries lessons worth remembering.

The unique characteristics of each element become symbols of values that inspire us and the community we are building—adaptability, resilience, gratitude, growth, and staying true to ourselves. Our garments are designed for people who value purpose and lifestyle over trends, creating a community united by shared values rather than what happens to be fashionable. 

Producing locally is equally important to us. All our garments are sewn in Greece, supporting local craftsmanship while maintaining quality and authenticity.

Living and working in Ioannina allows us to move at a more human pace, away from the pressures of large urban centers. Surrounded by mountains, the lake, and easy access to the sea, I find constant inspiration in the landscape. Ioannina is one of the most beautiful places in Greece, and I love its character, its colors, and its slower rhythms of life. 

As a mother, there is only one thing I would truly like to see improved in the city: more dedicated public spaces for children. While Ioannina is a wonderful place to raise a family, it deserves more high-quality playgrounds where children can play, explore, and connect with nature.

Creating welcoming spaces for families would make an already exceptional city even better.

Beyond that, I wouldn’t change much. I love the authenticity of Ioannina, its traditions, its colors, and the way life here remains profoundly human.