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?What is a good way to start up a clothing brand and is an online brander trustable or physical?
My friend found a vendor for 118 should we start with hats first or shorts it's getting hot where I'm at
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Ignacio’s Answer
Hi Sayoon
First of, huge kudos to you for taking the leap into building your own clothing brand! That kind of initiative is exactly what sets future entrepreneurs apart. Whether you're starting with hats, shorts, or something else entirely, the key is to stay focused, learn as you go, and keep things simple at the start.
1. Starting a Clothing Brand – The Basics
Start small and focused: Begin with one or two products (like hats or shorts) to test your brand and audience.
Define your brand identity: What makes your brand unique? Is it the design, the message, the materials?
Build a simple online presence: Use platforms like Instagram, TikTok, or a Shopify site to showcase your products and story.
2. Online vs. Physical Branding
Online branding is absolutely trustable—and often more scalable for a new brand.
Focus on:
A clean, consistent visual identity (logo, colors, fonts)
Clear product photos and descriptions
Customer engagement (responding to comments, sharing behind-the-scenes content)
You don’t need a physical store to build trust—just transparency, consistency, and good communication.
3. Hats or Shorts First?
Since it’s getting hot where you are, shorts might be more seasonally relevant—but hats are often cheaper to produce and easier to size (one-size-fits-most). Here’s a quick comparison:
Item Pros Cons
Hats Lower cost, easier sizing, good for branding May be less in demand in hot weather
Shorts Seasonal appeal, higher perceived value More sizing complexity, higher cost
I wanted to add a brief launch plan as well
Launch Plan for a Clothing Brand
1. Define the Brand
Name & Logo: Choose something memorable and meaningful.
Mission: What does your brand stand for? (e.g., comfort, creativity, culture)
Target Audience: Who are you designing for? (age, style, interests)
2. Start Small with One Product
Choose between hats or shorts:
Hats = easier sizing, lower cost, great for branding.
Shorts = seasonal, higher value, but more sizing complexity.
3. Design & Samples
Create 1–2 designs to start.
Order samples to check quality, fit, and feel.
Wear them, share them, and get feedback from friends.
4. Set Up Your Online Presence
Instagram/TikTok: Start building hype with sneak peeks, polls, and behind-the-scenes.
Online Store: Use Shopify, Etsy, or even a simple landing page with a payment link.
5. Build Hype Before Launch
Post teasers and countdowns.
Offer early access or discounts to followers.
Collect emails for a launch announcement.
6. Launch Day
Announce on all platforms.
Share photos/videos of people wearing the product.
Make it easy to buy—link directly to the product page.
7. Post-Launch
Ask for feedback and reviews.
Repost customer photos.
Use profits to reinvest in your next product (maybe shorts!).
First of, huge kudos to you for taking the leap into building your own clothing brand! That kind of initiative is exactly what sets future entrepreneurs apart. Whether you're starting with hats, shorts, or something else entirely, the key is to stay focused, learn as you go, and keep things simple at the start.
1. Starting a Clothing Brand – The Basics
Start small and focused: Begin with one or two products (like hats or shorts) to test your brand and audience.
Define your brand identity: What makes your brand unique? Is it the design, the message, the materials?
Build a simple online presence: Use platforms like Instagram, TikTok, or a Shopify site to showcase your products and story.
2. Online vs. Physical Branding
Online branding is absolutely trustable—and often more scalable for a new brand.
Focus on:
A clean, consistent visual identity (logo, colors, fonts)
Clear product photos and descriptions
Customer engagement (responding to comments, sharing behind-the-scenes content)
You don’t need a physical store to build trust—just transparency, consistency, and good communication.
3. Hats or Shorts First?
Since it’s getting hot where you are, shorts might be more seasonally relevant—but hats are often cheaper to produce and easier to size (one-size-fits-most). Here’s a quick comparison:
Item Pros Cons
Hats Lower cost, easier sizing, good for branding May be less in demand in hot weather
Shorts Seasonal appeal, higher perceived value More sizing complexity, higher cost
I wanted to add a brief launch plan as well
Launch Plan for a Clothing Brand
1. Define the Brand
Name & Logo: Choose something memorable and meaningful.
Mission: What does your brand stand for? (e.g., comfort, creativity, culture)
Target Audience: Who are you designing for? (age, style, interests)
2. Start Small with One Product
Choose between hats or shorts:
Hats = easier sizing, lower cost, great for branding.
Shorts = seasonal, higher value, but more sizing complexity.
3. Design & Samples
Create 1–2 designs to start.
Order samples to check quality, fit, and feel.
Wear them, share them, and get feedback from friends.
4. Set Up Your Online Presence
Instagram/TikTok: Start building hype with sneak peeks, polls, and behind-the-scenes.
Online Store: Use Shopify, Etsy, or even a simple landing page with a payment link.
5. Build Hype Before Launch
Post teasers and countdowns.
Offer early access or discounts to followers.
Collect emails for a launch announcement.
6. Launch Day
Announce on all platforms.
Share photos/videos of people wearing the product.
Make it easy to buy—link directly to the product page.
7. Post-Launch
Ask for feedback and reviews.
Repost customer photos.
Use profits to reinvest in your next product (maybe shorts!).
Updated
Jennifer’s Answer
Hi Sayonn,
Starting a clothing brand can be an exciting venture, and both online and physical branding have their advantages. Here are some considerations to help you decide the best approach:
Online Branding:
- Cost-Effective: Launching your brand online can be more cost-effective, as it reduces the need for physical retail space and associated overhead costs.
- Global Reach: An online presence allows you to reach a larger potential customer base, as your brand can be accessed from anywhere with an internet connection.
- Convenience: Online shopping provides convenience for customers, potentially leading to higher sales and brand exposure.
Physical Branding:
- Tangible Experience: A physical retail presence provides a tangible experience and can create a strong brand connection with customers.
- Local Market Presence: A physical store can help you establish a presence in your local market and build a loyal customer base through in-person interactions.
As for deciding on whether to start with hats or shorts, consider factors such as seasonal demand, target market preferences, and your brand's overall aesthetic. If it's getting hot in your area and there is a demand for summer apparel, launching with shorts could be a strategic choice. However, it's important to conduct market research and consider customer preferences before making a final decision.
When working with a vendor, it's crucial to ensure that they are reliable, provide high-quality products, and have a good track record in the industry. Look for customer reviews and request samples of the products to assess their quality before making a commitment.
Ultimately, the best approach for your clothing brand will depend on your specific goals, target market, and resources. Both online and physical branding have their advantages, so consider what aligns best with your brand vision and long-term objectives.
Best of Luck!
Jennifer
Starting a clothing brand can be an exciting venture, and both online and physical branding have their advantages. Here are some considerations to help you decide the best approach:
Online Branding:
- Cost-Effective: Launching your brand online can be more cost-effective, as it reduces the need for physical retail space and associated overhead costs.
- Global Reach: An online presence allows you to reach a larger potential customer base, as your brand can be accessed from anywhere with an internet connection.
- Convenience: Online shopping provides convenience for customers, potentially leading to higher sales and brand exposure.
Physical Branding:
- Tangible Experience: A physical retail presence provides a tangible experience and can create a strong brand connection with customers.
- Local Market Presence: A physical store can help you establish a presence in your local market and build a loyal customer base through in-person interactions.
As for deciding on whether to start with hats or shorts, consider factors such as seasonal demand, target market preferences, and your brand's overall aesthetic. If it's getting hot in your area and there is a demand for summer apparel, launching with shorts could be a strategic choice. However, it's important to conduct market research and consider customer preferences before making a final decision.
When working with a vendor, it's crucial to ensure that they are reliable, provide high-quality products, and have a good track record in the industry. Look for customer reviews and request samples of the products to assess their quality before making a commitment.
Ultimately, the best approach for your clothing brand will depend on your specific goals, target market, and resources. Both online and physical branding have their advantages, so consider what aligns best with your brand vision and long-term objectives.
Best of Luck!
Jennifer
I appreciate this, thank you for the advice.
Sayonn