I think for many of us we've bought into the idea that we all need to have our own business. Often coming to the conclusion that "maybe it would be easiest to sell my own clothes" and so like many people we begin the journey of starting our own clothing brand. But for many of us it's a dream that is short lived because it's a plant that requires constant watering.
As I've embarked on this journey of creating my own clothing there were several thoughts that have popped into my head wile developing this brand. One of them being "do I really want to just sell clothes" and the answer I quickly found to be "no." Because I don't just want to be known for printing on blanks and selling t-shirts all my life, and to be clear there's nothing wrong with that. It's just. that's not what I want to be known as. More specifically that's not what I want the brand to be.
So in my head I began deconstructing the idea of what I want my brand to be. Instantly I thought, "well I want people to be amused by our marketing campaigns. and have them in its own strike conversation amongst friends and invoke emotion towards our core audience. But I also want my brand to not be limited to just clothes, because I also see a future where my brand will develop home goods, mens beauty products, furniture. but the products will be communicated and marketed to potential customers the same way we would approach our streetwear line."
So then quickly I came to the conclusion that this idea is not just a streetwear brand but rather a design brand. Which is a term me and a friend came up with because it's something that allows me to tinker with all sorts of mediums. Additionally it feels more freeing so working on a concept/ project can feel like play and allows me to have fun with my brand the same way a child might play with his legos to create something AWESOME!! Giving me free rein to design whatever my heart desires.
But then this made me think. Does everybody who creates a clothing brand. Actually want to create a clothing brand? What if... Just like me you want to do other things but feel limited to clothing? What if you just want to design shoes alone, or design new patterns for T-shirts, or maybe they just want to focus on mens accessories??
But because we've been spoon fed this narrative of creating your own brand equates to having a clothing brand, we've probably never gotten to see so many peoples true intentions behind their creations. Just imagine what could have been! Imagine all the indie brands that could become bigger than Tiffany and co. Imagine all the brands that could compete with brands like Nike, Ikea, Sephora.
So if I were to start my own brand in 2024. I would first stop and think what it is that you're truly passionate about. It could be something as small as a nail clipper and as big as living room sofa. Then I would figure out a way to design my own version. But because you're working on something so unique to you I think two things would happen #1 is the MOST important. You'll be passionate about your work! and #2 is probably just as important you'd most likely be competing in a market that isn't as competitive. With those two elements you'd be a force to be reckoned with!
So I actually want to inspire others who are thinking about creating a clothing brand. Don't do it. Think about why and what interests you most about having a clothing brand. Maybe you'll find through your inner reflection that you're actually most interested in creating socks, or hats, maybe shoes, or developing your own fabrics and designs. Maybe you just like bandanas, headbands, or jewelry. The list can go on and on.
Then this way Imagine how much stronger of a brand you could create. We all could create!!
We could all change the world through our "little" passion projects!!
I hope you found this to be helpful!!