There’s nothing quite like a new trend. They are circling around constantly and always sneaking up on us when we least expect it.
There is something so thrilling about discovering a new trend and challenging yourself to incorporate new pieces into your wardrobe- even if it is for a short period of time.
However, as consumers we often don’t realize crazy difficult it is for designers to stay ahead of the game and relevant. So, what do people not tell you about starting your own brand in 2016?
As a designer you are truly put to the test. Do you obey to the recurring trends and not satisfy your thirst and creativity that you have put into a sketchbook? Unfortunately competitive is an understatement when it comes to our society today. You either give in to the people telling you to design what will sell, or you put your ideas out into the world and hope they sell.
I decided to get this question answered the best way I found fit. I reached out to someone who I had the pleasure of meeting one of my first few weeks at my new school. His name is Marquise Elmore and he is a fashion design major at Philadelphia University and so very talented.
While talking to Marquise I asked him that very same question and truly admired his response.
Marquise:
“I stick to my own vision. I don’t change, I may tweak things here and there but I usually try to stay as true to my vision as possible. A designer without there own ideas is a designer without a future. Also you have to do what makes you happy and brings joy to you”.
“What people certainly don’t tell you is that it’s not always about what you know but who you know. Also that it’s not something that just happens over night, you need to work towards your goal and know that this is what you want for yourself. I’ve been at this for five years now and it’s a struggle at times, the bad time occur often but it’s when you get those good moments that you can appreciate all those bad moments”.
If you really think about it.. we are constantly remixing styles and trends that were around years and years ago.. high waisted jeans, overalls, platform shoes, the list goes on and on.
I think Marquise’s words are so very profound and hold so much truth. For a designer to be proud and excited about their work it has to come from within. I asked Marquise to send me some photos of his work and I am so happy he did. Take a look at just a few looks that were featured in the Atlantic City Fashion Week Show!
Discovering brands and companies that represent unique and new designs is the best part of the world of fashion. There is nothing like walking into a Buffalo Exchange or discovering a brand that has so much meaning behind it and just knowing you discovered a true treasure.
Combine all of that together and I give you Colabination.
Your “one stop shop” for that desire to stand out and be a little reckless when it comes to fashion. You no longer have to walk into those same old stores and wonder how many people own that same shirt that you just bought.
Every brand that you come across has a story to tell and you can be the reason the story is told. I highly encourage you to take and see for yourself:)
If you see anything you like be sure to use the code SSANDLER at checkout and recieve 10% off your order!
Meet you here again soon,
Sami
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