How RaiseFashion Empowers BIPOC-Owned Brands to Thrive Amidst Fashion’s Changing Landscape
The fashion landscape is evolving at an unprecedented pace, challenging independent designers to rethink their strategies and find innovative ways to succeed. With rising production costs and shifting trade dynamics, many BIPOC-owned brands are confronted with pressures they have never encountered before. These pressures are compounded by a growing demand for inclusivity, sustainability, and authenticity from conscious consumers.
The Shift in Consumer Expectations
According to Kantar’s Brand Inclusion 2024 Index, a staggering 75% of consumers worldwide assert that diversity and inclusion—or the lack thereof—significantly influences their purchasing decisions. To stay relevant in today’s climate, brands must balance consumer demands with their own creative visions while also adapting to new economic realities.
Emotional Toll on Designers
Beyond mere business challenges, the psychological burdens faced by designers can be overwhelming. Managing production costs against the backdrop of market volatility often leads to burnout. For many BIPOC designers, the additional pressure of being cultural ambassadors for their communities can exacerbate these stresses. This situation underscores the urgent need for holistic support systems addressing both business and emotional well-being.
RaiseFashion: A Guiding Light for Emerging Designers
RaiseFashion, a non-profit organization dedicated to empowering emerging BIPOC designers, serves as a beacon in this tumultuous environment. By offering access to grant funding, executive mentorship, and strategic advice, RaiseFashion is helping designers navigate the complexities of the industry. Now entering its third year, the program provides hands-on guidance from experienced industry leaders, enabling selected designers to adapt their operations while remaining focused on their core community objectives.
Real-World Impact: Success Stories
Through RaiseFashion’s support, brands like Gwen Beloti, Danzy, and Vontélle are carving out their niches, aiming for commercial success while embedding community values into their mindsets. Let’s explore how three trailblazing designers are balancing purpose, community, and scaling for success.
Meet the Designers
Marshall Danzy Taulbert – Danzy Design Studio
Marshall Danzy Taulbert, founder of Danzy Design Studio. (Raisefashion)
Founded in 2018, Danzy Design Studio combines American heritage with modern, preppy aesthetics. Danzy’s collection of elevated essentials has gained a cult following, including a notable collaboration with Abercrombie & Fitch.
Understanding Consumer Needs
What unmet consumer demands are you addressing through your brand?
“My goal is to meet people where they are,” says Danzy. “In a world flooded with endless options, I aim for simplicity and intention.”
He emphasizes a minimalist approach with tightly curated offerings, allowing consumers clarity and ease in their decision-making.
Financial Challenges and Transformation
What are the biggest obstacles you face in scaling your business?
“Access to capital has been crucial,” Danzy explains. “Thanks to RaiseFashion’s pitch to Abercrombie, I delivered a 26-piece collection without financial worries, allowing creativity to flourish.”
Participating in the RaiseFashion masterclass reshaped Danzy’s understanding of essential business practices like cash flow and financial planning, pushing him to cultivate a clear brand identity.
Tracy Vontélle Green – Vontélle Eyewear
Tracy Vontélle Green, co-founder of Vontélle Eyewear. (Raisefashion)
Founded in 2019, Vontélle Eyewear prioritizes size inclusivity and cultural inspiration. Their eyewear is tailored for diverse face shapes and sizes, available online and in over 900 retail locations.
Bridging the Gap in Eyewear
What unmet consumer demands is Vontélle addressing?
Vontélle focuses on size inclusivity, creating eyewear that accommodates various face shapes. “I wanted to craft glasses that fit comfortably, allowing wearers to embrace their style without compromise,” Green states.
Balancing Innovation and Affordability
How do you navigate pricing?
Vontélle offers tiered pricing that balances luxury with accessibility, ensuring quality eyewear is available to underserved communities. Through their collaboration with National Vision, they’ve launched a collection with prices ranging from $90 to $150, bringing stylish comfort to the masses.
The Power of Transformational Support
RaiseFashion has transformed our perspective, Green reflects. “The framework they provided not only clarified our mission but also instilled the importance of a cohesive brand identity.”
Gwen Beloti – Gwen Beloti Jewellery
Gwen Beloti, founder and designer at Gwen Beloti Jewellery. (Raisefashion)
Gwen Beloti Jewellery, launched in 2019, is known for its minimalist designs focusing on inclusivity. Each piece is crafted to cater to a range of sizes, reflecting Beloti’s personal commitment to accessibility.
Commitment to Inclusivity
How do you ensure accessibility while scaling your brand?
“Inclusivity is a non-negotiable pillar,” Beloti asserts. “I design not just for larger sizes but for all body types to feel represented.”
Beloti focuses on community-building alongside diverse pricing options, making quality jewellery accessible to a broader audience.
Navigating Industry Barriers
What challenges have you faced?
“As a Black female entrepreneur, access to capital and networks remains daunting,” Beloti admits. “Yet, RaiseFashion has connected me to invaluable resources that have propelled my brand forward.”
Conclusion: A New Dawn for BIPOC Designers
RaiseFashion is more than just a support system; it’s a transformative force, equipping BIPOC designers with the tools they need to thrive in a competitive industry. By prioritizing community, inclusivity, and empowerment, these designers prove that success can be achieved without sacrificing authenticity or values.
As the fashion industry continues to evolve, so too will the voices driving it forward—voices like those of Marshall Danzy, Tracy Vontélle Green, and Gwen Beloti, who remind us all that the future of fashion is indeed bright, diverse, and inclusive.
This feature is part of a community partnership with RaiseFashion.
