Mario
What do you need to study or what classes do you need to take in college in order to have your own brand business?
I have always wanted to have my own clothing brand, so this is something I have a lot of interest for and I am looking forward to pursuing a career in business. #business #fashion #fashion-design #branding #clothing-design #brand-development
3 answers
Siddharth Suri
Siddharth’s Answer
Lean entrepreneurship, these are some of the concepts you need to be familiar with. There are skills associated as well.
I kinda assume that you will start off your venture as a direct to consumer e-retailer. But there might be other possibilities as well.
You would basically be a fashion retailer. I would strongly advise working for an established e-commerce brand/company within their marketing team to understand the various business functions before founding your own label. That experience will be really helpful.
Matthew Scott
Matthew’s Answer
Besides the course that will help you be better prepared to start and grow a brand, honestly you don't need anything to specific to get into clothing. Many many many streetwear brands buy blank t-shirts from American Apparel or Gildan and then screen print their designs that represent the story or lifestyle the clothing should represent, and then take it right to the group of people or the subculture its meant for and hustle to get people to buy and wear the gear.
The history of clothing brands is very much about having a story, building on sweat equity (just trying and trying and trying till it works), and getting lucky with exposure.
Matthew recommends the following next steps:
Alysa Hunton
Alysa’s Answer
Hi, Mario,
Courses in marketing and/or communications will be a great boon to you in developing your own brand in business. But also, in terms your own “brand” you can ask yourself what do you want to be known for in your clothing brand? What do you want people to think of when they see or hear your name? What do you want your brand to be? Think of a line like "Free People." Free People pretty much has the whole breezy, "boho" hippie chick look down pat, don’t they? Lots of soft loose, gauzy tops that pair well with jeans, and long drapey dresses with embroidery. Think of Zac Posen and one thinks Academy Award red carpet gowns. What type of woman, or man, are you designing for? Who do you picture wearing your clothing brand? Eileen Fisher designs for the artsy woman who wants to be comfortable (she never designs with zippers, belt loops and only perhaps a button or two), and Donna Karan designs for the well paid female executive who also wants to be comfortable but in form fitting designs that are subtly sexy, too. Knowing who you are designing for is key to your brand, and will also help you determine how to market your fashion line.
And I can already see your name on a clothing tag now, "Mario G"! Good luck.
All best,
Alysa