THE BLOG CYCLE | HOW TO MAKE IT: 10 RULES FOR SUCCESS FROM FASHION INDUSTRY INSIDERS
Posted by Oak and Oar on
A few years back I was looking for an opportunity to gain some experience in the industry. Through a series of fortunate events I met Andrew and Johan, owners of 3sixteen and now co-owners of Self Edge LA and Self Edge NY.
After meeting at Project and grabbing a bite at the MGM Grand Buffet they offered me the opportunity to join the team for a 6 month stint in New York. During my time I learned a lot about business, retail, design and the ins and outs of the industry – but more importantly, maintaining your integrity in an industry often flawed by inconsistency, smoke and mirrors.
Complex magazine ran a feature called How To Make It: 10 Rules For Success From Fashion Industry Insiders that featured advice from the the likes of Eunice Lee (UNIS), Chris Gibbs (Union), Mark McNairy (New Amsterdam/Woolrich Woolen Mills) and Andrew Chen (3sixteen/SENY/SELA/Chapter & Verse Agency).
Andrews Advice – Transparency Is Key.
“Whether you’re running a business alone or with partners, it’s important to be open and honest with everything you do. If you’re going to be a little late in paying your manufacturer, let them know. If you need an advance on your paycheck because you’ve got some personal stuff to handle, say something to your partner. All company owners should have open access to the books at all times. I experienced this firsthand when some bad stuff went down with a former business partner. In retrospect, it was my fault too because I didn’t put my foot down with having access to the information, and because of that it gave an avenue for dishonesty. Transparency is paramount in running a successful business.”
Something to chew on.
Follow @andrew3sixteen and @johanlam