If you’ve been dreaming of starting a clothing brand but are scared of making the commitment I HEAR YOU. It’s a tough world out there with no guarantees but if the last couple of years has taught us anything it’s that we never know what could happen. Time and chances can be taken away from us at the drop of a fedora leaving us wishing we’d just bloody done it. But you can! And there is no time like the present because sweetheart the present is the only thing we can be sure of. Read on for some reasons why your small brand could shine in 2022.
1, Consumers are crying out for a more personal touch
The last couple of years have changed us. We are more awake and more conscious than ever and realise that we want more intimate experiences when parting with our hard-earned cash. We don’t want to be just another number on some massive chains receipt log. Small brands can offer that personal experience. They are more in tune and aligned with their customer base and know how to make them feel special through their ethical stance, beautiful packaging, handwritten notes and other personal experiences that the big chains just don’t offer. We want to feel appreciated and you can do that.
2, Small brands find it easier to build connected communities
In this online age, small brands can get right to the heart of their community. You can find them from day one and take them on the journey with you. They will feel part of your brand and you can be part of their everyday. In turn, they will want to support you and help others to find you. Nurture your community and you will have customers for life.
3, It is relatively ‘easy’ to keep costs down when starting up
I don’t mean this to sound flippant, starting any kind of business comes with costs but maybe not as many as you think. To keep the costs down, write down your list of start-up costs and decide what is essential and what can wait. Your biggest cost should be the production costs at the beginning. keep your other overheads down. Branding and marketing can be organic until you have a dedicated budget.
4, You can make a positive impact and slow down the consumption train
Starting a fashion brand today means the chance to make a difference. Sustainable and ethical practices should now be a given within all brands. We don’t have, and shouldn’t want the choice as to not knowing where our clothes come from. Look out for certifications both for fabrics and factories. You also don’t want to be churning out too many styles and changing collections every five minutes. Think inter-seasonal collections. Conscious fashion over fast fashion please and thank you.
5, It just takes one great idea to get it off the ground
Let’s face it, it is hard to come up with a completely new idea but the great thing is, nobody can come up with an idea exactly like you can! Find a way to put a spin on something to make it unique, identify a gap in the market and fill it!
If this makes you excited to take the next step then don’t waste another second.
If you need help along this journey, start by looking at my free guide on the fundamental steps to developing a clothing range and feel free to get in touch about any of my services.
Here’s to a 2022 launch! Deedee xx
Fashion Design & Development Experts 