How Can I Sell, Market and Network a James Perse-like Men's Fashion Line
December 29, 2015 11:14 AM   Subscribe

I am about to launch a James Perse-like, California casual men's fashion line in Southern California and am looking for ways to... 1) Sell the line 2) Market the line 3) Find local brands that sell men's clothing, accessories, etc to share space at trade shows and events

For number 1) I'd like suggestions on how to find a sales rep beyond placing ads in industry newspapers, and sales opportunities beyond trade shows. I've approached showrooms in Los Angeles Fashion District. The feedback is the line is too small to carry at this time. I will be selling at Artwalks and Artists and Fleas-like events along with selling on-line.

For number 2) I would like different avenues of marketing inclusive of social media, blogs, podcasting, print and more. One goal is to get the signature pieces on celebrities as I do have connections. An example of what I am talking about is contacting photographers with large followings and offer them a pair to photograph with models for content.

For number 3) I have had designed a 10x10 "department store" that fits within a same size tent. The interior is masculine with a Giorgio Armani feel. I would like to sell shelf space to other brands that align with the look and spirit of my line. We can then share costs at rental costs at trade shows and other events and exponentially increase our networks.

The line is L.A based so any suggestion and local referrals would be appreciated.

If anyone would like to see the line please shoot me an e-mail and I will send website address
posted by goalyeehah to Clothing, Beauty, & Fashion (3 answers total) 2 users marked this as a favorite
 
You've asked a lot of questions about this line of business...have you thought about hiring a fashion marketing agency or something similar to help you with the launch? It sounds like you have a lot of great ideas but are new to the fashion business and could benefit from the help of experts.
posted by radioamy at 11:39 AM on December 29, 2015 [2 favorites]


Do you have industry experience and contacts? If not, have you considered trying out for Project Runway?

This would give you a chance to expose your style to the masses, and you could do an Etsy or Facebook or on-line store for now and if you make it onto the show, you can pimp it like a mo-fo. Yes, it's more women's wear oriented, but designing is designing and adapting menswear to women's wear...well, it could launch your menswear line, or at least give you a way to open doors.

What I've noticed is since the show moved from Bravo to Lifetime, they're not so much about people being all Drama Llamas and causing issues, but more about the creativity.

This would be my approach if I were trying to break into this cut-throat business without having been in it for the past decade.
posted by Ruthless Bunny at 2:09 PM on December 29, 2015


Have you considered selling on consignment? This can be a good way to establish your brand, and it will give you a good opportunity to refine the line based on what is selling well. Look for local boutiques that cater to your target market and give them a few of each of your pieces.
posted by ananci at 7:44 PM on December 29, 2015


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