How to Start a Clothing Line
Jacqueline City is a 23 year old fashion designer and owner of Jacqueline City Apparel: A New Approach to Fashion. She is proud to be a disabled girl boss who suffers from heart disease, dysautonomia, and POTS which left her bedridden for some time. Because of her disabilities, she stresses the importance of inclusivity; her brand has options for women, men, unisex, kids and plus sizes.
Jacqueline City Apparel made its runway debut just one year after its launch in February 2020 at NYFW as a "New York Fashion Week: Ones to Watch” and is set to show at Paris Fashion Week in the fall of this year.
She’s ever-so-generously shared her tips on starting a clothing line with us.
KNOW THIS:
1. A clothing brand can be a full time job or just a hobby; it depends on how seriously you take it and how much time and effort you’re willing to put into it.
2. Only start your line for the right reasons. Fashion is a form of art. Use this to express yourself and have fun! There are no rules in fashion.
3. You should take chances and trust your gut. Try and fail; failure is important and just one step towards success.
4. It’s very important to keep your branding consistent across all platforms. Pick a consistent color scheme, aesthetic and feel.
5. Make sure you stress what makes you and your brand different. With so many clothing companies and online retailers, it’s important to have a message that sets you apart!
DO THIS:
1. Research! I researched for months before I started my business. I find Youtube, google and bloggers, focusing on researching entrepreneurship, running a brand, and money management.
2. Paperwork! Always check with your local government to make sure you fill out all the necessary paperwork to start a business legally and file your documents in a safe place.
3. Budget! Make sure you have money to invest in as things like the website, email hosting, shipping materials and clothing will cost money.
4. Take advantage of your own skills! See where you can save money. If you can be your own model, photographer, web designer or graphic designer, use that to your advantage!
5. Be active on social media! Social media is great free advertising. Create engaging content you are proud of and similar-minded people will follow.
Photography by Veronica Takes Photos
Want the latest notes in your inbox?
