Superstylin* is constantly inspired by those with an entrepreneurial spirit. Therefore, I knew I needed to meet CEO and Founder of Velvet Brigade Lindsay McConnon after watching an interview she did describing the vision behind the company she runs with COO and Founder Jena Wang. Lindsay and Jena met while working at one of the world's largest apparel retailers in the contemporary women's market. They bring manufacturing, buying and retail experience to their newest business venture. Velvet Brigade is bringing fashion power to the people.
Velvet Brigade’s mission is to revolutionize the traditional fashion regime. Whether you’re an aspiring designer or a trend-obsessed fashionista, VB is a place where your creativity and indie style can come together to make fashion history.
The production schedule employed by fashion companies generally requires a lead time of several months to produce goods. The turnaround time is not quick enough to satiate consumers who crave the newest designs now thanks to the fast-fashion world online. I talked to Lindsay about the nuts-and-bolts of the operation from ideation sketches through the production process. Aspiring designers submit sketches to the Velvet Brigade community. The community then votes and comments on the designs. To help spread the word about their creations, designers are provided a link to their design to share with family and friends, as well as options to share on Facebook and Twitter. The most popular designs are produced and sold online on the Velvet Brigade website. Winners receive a 5% commission from the sales of their garment and a production piece of their design. One of my favorite personalized touches is the designer's name printed on the garment label alongside Velvet Brigade.
The inaugural round of winners were recently chosen. Meet the designers and watch their videos as they describe their designs and personal style. Velvet Brigade is currently seeking submissions for fall designs and the next round of winners will be announced June 30th. For more information about Velvet Brigade, *LIKE* them on Facebook or follow them on Twitter @velvetbrigade. Design, vote and buy!
