If you've read Part 1, you already know that running an independent fashion brand isn't always as glamorous as it might look from the outside. But there are a few more things worth mentioning. Some perks, some questionable business expenses, and a few situations that make you wonder how this all makes sense.
Here we go:
1. The biggest flex
Almost everything you buy is justified as a business expense.
2. And then there’s the plot twist
You constantly run into the most ridiculous expenses.
For example, when a parcel sent to the US goes unclaimed, you end up paying import duties on that very same parcel you originally sent out!!
Make it make sense, please.
3. You learn the hard way that not every seamstress meets your quality standards
Every seamstress has their own area of expertise, shaped by their personal experience, which is often different from yours. After all, nobody is born knowing everything (including you).
And still, you'll be the one paying for samples you wouldn't be willing to put your brand's name on.
4. Being your own boss doesn't mean you get to take more time off
Sure, you can go for a manicure on a Monday morning, but then you're working on Friday night, over the weekend and pretty much all the time. You feel guilty whenever you're NOT working.
5. Different spending priorities
Your friends spend their salaries on clothes, while you spend yours on fabrics and materials (not complaining).
6. So many ideas, so little time
Your sketchbook is basically a waiting room for ideas. It keeps filling up with designs, details and little experiments you'd love to explore. The tricky part is finding the time and resources to turn all those ideas into actual pieces. Some have been waiting for their moment for so long that they've practically become permanent residents.
7. Your local courier knows the drill
You have a bestie at the courier’s office who knows your phone number and exactly whose name to look for on every shipping label.
8. You're not actually dressed head to toe in your own brand
You simply don't have the time to make clothes for yourself. But you do manage to keep a thing or two – perhaps a prototype with a little "defect", hehe.
9. Time is money
Doing everything yourself (from the initial idea to pattern cutting and product development) means you pay more with your time than money. But time IS money, so at the end of the day - you pay both.
10. The weekly reset
A weekly mental breakdown is pretty much mandatory. It’s just like a little system update.
11. Customer service is just on another level!
I'll make the design to fit your measurements, give you ideas on how to style it, give you five compliments and ship your order ahead of schedule – simply because I genuinely care about what I do.