Setting up and running your own fashion label- helpful tips from StitchLand [Part 2]

So you've decided which pathway you wish to take (Haute Couture, Prêt-à-Porter, High Street/Mass Production) but what now? 

Internship

It could be a wise idea to intern for a fashion label that is somewhat similar to the label you wish to set up yourself. This will give you hands on experience and will teach you about different sides of the business, difficulties that may arise and how to deal with them. It might help you make the right decisions as well as avoid certain mistakes when starting up your own brand.

Retail experience

If you plan to open a retail store it could be useful to get a job within the retail industry. This will teach you about certain procedures within a retail store as well as allow you to observe the consumer- for example their way of shopping, decision making when it comes to purchasing a product, what they expect from a retailer and products. 

StitchLand London, UK - Pattern cutting, sampling and clothing manufacturing 

Skills

Think through your skill set and whether there is still something you ought to learn before moving ahead. Be honest with yourself, if you think you lack certain skills that are crucial to the future of the business try gain them prior to moving forward. You might need some hands on experience or maybe a short evening course at a college or university. 

StitchLand London, UK - Pattern cutting, sampling and clothing manufacturing 

Research 

It is essential to carry out sufficient research prior to launching your own fashion label. You must research your chosen target market as well as trends, retailers, manufacturing process and manufacturers themselves. It is a great idea to visit exhibitions, events and trade shows. It's a good way to network with industry professionals whom you might work with in the future. Textile and manufacturer trade shows will allow you to collect information and details that will become very important when you reach the stage of sourcing fabrics and sampling/manufacturing your collections.
Visit retail stores that relate to the pathway you have decided to choose. Observe their merchandising, garment selection, see if you can find out which items seem to be most popular with buyers.

Planning for your business

When starting a fashion label it is essential to plan ahead and set out your goals. Careful planning will ensure you are well prepared and will help you reduce the amount of potential stressful situations. Being prepared will also mean your business is more likely to succeed. It will help you feel more confident and keep you on the right track.

Make a primary list of things you need to plan for, then expand on the areas noted as much as possible.