Innovating Sportswear | AEP086

In this episode of the Apparel Entrepreneurship Podcast, we dive into a big one - Digital Product Passports (DPPs). They’re going to be mandatory for all fashion brands selling in the EU starting in 2027, so it’s time to get familiar.Ana and Klas break down what DPPs actually are, why they matter for sustainability and transparency, and how they can help build real trust with customers. We also get into the practical side - the data you’ll need, the risks of not being ready, and the major opportunities DPPs open up for both operations and marketing.We wrap up with some hands-on advice on how to start implementing DPPs now, and how doing it right can actually boost your brand and make your processes way more efficient.Takeaways✅ Digital Product Passports (DPPs) will be required for selling in the EU by 2027 - no way around it.✅ DPPs are all about making fashion more sustainable and transparent.✅ To make it work, brands need solid, accurate data from their entire supply chain.✅ Being open about where and how products are made helps build real trust with customers.✅ DPPs aren’t just for compliance - they’re a powerful marketing tool too.✅ Skip the DPP rules and you risk facing fines and other penalties.✅ Moving toward a circular economy isn’t optional anymore - it’s key to real sustainability.✅ DPPs help brands stay on top of their products’ full lifecycle, from design to end-of-life.✅ They also open up new ways to connect directly with your customers.✅ Done right, DPPs can actually improve how your business runs behind the scenes.DPP solutions - Portia.cloud - https://www.portia.cloud/

🎙️ The Ultimate Guide to Fashion Retail Success – Featuring Flying Solo’s Co-FounderIn this powerhouse episode of the Apparel Entrepreneurship Podcast, we sit down with Elizabeth Solomeina, co-founder of Flying Solo—one of the most influential retail platforms for independent designers.Whether you're just starting out or looking to level up your fashion brand, this episode is your step-by-step guide to thriving in fashion retail. Elizabeth shares real-world insights and hard-earned wisdom on what it truly takes to succeed — from debunking retail myths and mastering the art of networking, to aligning creativity with market demand and landing valuable press.You’ll also learn:What most designers get wrong about retail (and how to avoid it)How to seamlessly transition from D2C to retailWhy your online presence could make or break your brandThe secrets to getting noticed — and stocked — by top retailersThis isn’t just a conversation — it’s a blueprint. Tune in and unlock the strategies that are shaping the future of fashion retail.Flying Solo: https://flyingsolo.nyc/Portia: https://portia.cloud/#retail #fashion #sales

Claudia Glass, the founder of a female-specific sportswear brand, shares her journey from being a high school teacher to creating a unique sports bra designed for swim runners, now worn by some of the world's best professional athletes.She discusses the challenges of entering the apparel industry, the importance of understanding customer needs, and the innovative design and manufacturing processes involved in creating her product. Claudia emphasizes the significance of sustainability and circularity in fashion, as well as the value of mentorship and community feedback in developing successful products. In this conversation, Claudia Glass discusses the intricate journey of developing a sportswear brand focused on women's needs, particularly sports bras. She shares insights on the challenges of manufacturing, the importance of on-site collaboration with manufacturers, and the strategies behind pricing and marketing. Claudia emphasizes the significance of customer engagement and feedback in refining products, as well as the personal challenges faced as an entrepreneur in the competitive apparel industry. In this conversation, Claudia Glass shares her journey as an entrepreneur, the challenges of product development, and the importance of resilience. She emphasizes the need for collaboration and support within the industry, particularly for women entrepreneurs. She ends with her vision for the future of her brand and the legacy she hopes to leave behind.Swijin: https://swijin.com🔥 RESOURCES WE CREATED FOR YOU!⚡️💻 Sustainable Fashion Business Softwarehttps://www.portia.cloud/⚡️💻  6-Step Clothing Brand Startup Course - To 6 Figures And Beyondhttps://academy.apparelentrepreneurship.com/step/clothing-brand-startup-course/⚡️💻 How To Write A Business Plan Workshophttps://academy.apparelentrepreneurship.com/step/business-plan-workshop/⚡️💻 Find Your Brand Niche & Unique Value Propositionhttps://academy.apparelentrepreneurship.com/step/find-your-brand-niche/⚡️💻 Apparel Entrepreneurship Tools & Templateshttps://www.apparelentrepreneurship.com/shop/◽️◽️◽️◽️◽️◽️⬇️ More stuff you should check out ⬇️** JOIN THE APPAREL ENTREPRENEURSHIP NEWSLETTER GIVING YOU INDUSTRY UPDATES, CONTENT, TOOLS, INSPIRATION, GUIDES, AND SPECIAL OFFERS! **https://www.apparelentrepreneurship.com/newsletter/◽️◽️◽️◽️◽️◽️SAY HI ON SOCIAL:APPAREL ENTREPRENEURSHIPWebsite: https://www.apparelentrepreneurship.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/apparelentrepreneurship/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/apparel-entrepreneurship/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@apparelentrepreneurshipFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/apparelentrepreneurshipPORTIA - Sustainable Fashion Business SoftwareWebsite: https://www.portia.cloud/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/portiasaas/DESINDER - Strategy, Branding & Design AgencyWebsite: https://www.desinder.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/desinder/

In this episode of the Apparel Entrepreneurship Podcast, Pamela Morris James, founder of Paloma St. James, discusses her journey in building a modular fashion business and sustainability. She shares insights on her entrepreneurial path, the concept of modular clothing, and the importance of consumer engagement. Pamela emphasizes the need for quality materials and the challenges of educating consumers about her innovative approach. The conversation also touches on the intersection of art and fashion, the role of mentorship, and the significance of her book, 'The Guide to Luxury Modular Fashion.#Fashion #Sustainability #Entrepreneurship #FashionIndustry #FashionEducationPaloma St James: https://palomastjames.comThe Guide To Luxury Modular Fashion: https://palomastjames.com/pages/books-the-guide-to-luxury-modular-fashion🔥 RESOURCES WE CREATED FOR YOU!⚡️💻 Sustainable Fashion Business Softwarehttps://www.portia.cloud/⚡️💻 6-Step Clothing Brand Startup Course - To 6 Figures And Beyondhttps://academy.apparelentrepreneurship.com/step/clothing-brand-startup-course/⚡️💻 How To Write A Business Plan Workshophttps://academy.apparelentrepreneurship.com/step/business-plan-workshop/⚡️💻 Find Your Brand Niche & Unique Value Propositionhttps://academy.apparelentrepreneurship.com/step/find-your-brand-niche/⚡️💻 Apparel Entrepreneurship Tools & Templateshttps://www.apparelentrepreneurship.com/shop/◽️◽️◽️◽️◽️◽️⬇️ More stuff you should check out ⬇️** JOIN THE APPAREL ENTREPRENEURSHIP NEWSLETTER GIVING YOU INDUSTRY UPDATES, CONTENT, TOOLS, INSPIRATION, GUIDES, AND SPECIAL OFFERS! **https://www.apparelentrepreneurship.com/newsletter/◽️◽️◽️◽️◽️◽️SAY HI ON SOCIAL:APPAREL ENTREPRENEURSHIPWebsite: https://www.apparelentrepreneurship.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/apparelentrepreneurship/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/apparel-entrepreneurship/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@apparelentrepreneurshipFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/apparelentrepreneurshipPORTIA - Sustainable Fashion Business SoftwareWebsite: https://www.portia.cloud/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/portiasaas/DESINDER - Strategy, Branding & Design AgencyWebsite: https://www.desinder.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/desinder/

In this episode of the Apparel Entrepreneurship Podcast, Ed Bartlett, founder of Kostüme, shares his journey from a diverse background in gaming and art to creating a successful cycling apparel brand. He discusses the challenges and triumphs of building a brand without paid advertising, focusing on community engagement, innovative design, and sustainability. Ed emphasizes the importance of solving real problems for cyclists and creating high-quality products that resonate with consumers. The conversation also touches on the future of Kostüme and the brand's commitment to making a positive impact in the cycling apparel industry. In this conversation, Ed Bartlett discusses his innovative approach to launching a cycling apparel brand, focusing on storytelling, emotional connections with products, and the importance of community engagement. He shares insights on crowdfunding as a growth strategy, the challenges of fundraising, and the significance of customer involvement in product development. Ed emphasizes the need for transparency and authenticity in business, aiming to leave a positive legacy by changing the industry for the better.Kostüme: https://kostume.cc/Kostüme on Crowdcube: https://www.crowdcube.com/companies/kostume/pitches/lRvpGl🔥 RESOURCES WE CREATED FOR YOU!⚡️💻 Sustainable Fashion Business Softwarehttps://www.portia.cloud/⚡️💻 6-Step Clothing Brand Startup Course - To 6 Figures And Beyondhttps://academy.apparelentrepreneurship.com/step/clothing-brand-startup-course/⚡️💻 How To Write A Business Plan Workshophttps://academy.apparelentrepreneurship.com/step/business-plan-workshop/⚡️💻 Find Your Brand Niche & Unique Value Propositionhttps://academy.apparelentrepreneurship.com/step/find-your-brand-niche/⚡️💻 Apparel Entrepreneurship Tools & Templateshttps://www.apparelentrepreneurship.com/shop/◽️◽️◽️◽️◽️◽️⬇️ More stuff you should check out ⬇️** JOIN THE APPAREL ENTREPRENEURSHIP NEWSLETTER GIVING YOU INDUSTRY UPDATES, CONTENT, TOOLS, INSPIRATION, GUIDES, AND SPECIAL OFFERS! **https://www.apparelentrepreneurship.com/newsletter/◽️◽️◽️◽️◽️◽️SAY HI ON SOCIAL:APPAREL ENTREPRENEURSHIPWebsite: https://www.apparelentrepreneurship.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/apparelentrepreneurship/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/apparel-entrepreneurship/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@apparelentrepreneurshipFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/apparelentrepreneurshipPORTIA - Sustainable Fashion Business SoftwareWebsite: https://www.portia.cloud/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/portiasaas/DESINDER - Strategy, Branding & Design AgencyWebsite: https://www.desinder.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/desinder/

In the 83rd episode of the Apparel Entrepreneurship Podcast, we interview Sam Matanle, the founder of Batch London. He shares his journey of starting a made-to-order fashion brand focused on redefining the suit. The brand aims to provide a comfortable and versatile alternative to traditional suits while addressing the sustainability issues in the fashion industry. Sam discusses the challenges of starting a clothing brand without a background in fashion and how they approached the design and manufacturing process. He also talks about their unique business model of made-to-order production and the benefits it offers to both the brand and the customers. The conversation highlights the importance of collaboration, constant improvement, and intention in building a successful and sustainable fashion brand. Sam also emphasizes the importance of branding and building a strong community around the brand. He shares their strategies for attracting customers, including hosting events and leveraging LinkedIn. Sam highlights the need for work-life balance and the acceptance that failure is a possibility. He envisions leaving a legacy of changing consumer habits and promoting a more sustainable approach to fashion. Takeaways ✅ Batch London is a made-to-order fashion brand that offers comfortable and versatile suits as an alternative to traditional formal wear. ✅ The brand focuses on sustainability and aims to address the wasteful practices in the fashion industry. ✅ Sam Matanle, the founder, emphasizes the importance of collaboration and constant improvement in the design and manufacturing process. ✅ The made-to-order business model allows Batch London to offer high-quality products at a fair prices by eliminating the need for stock and reducing waste. ✅ The brand's retail store provides customers with the opportunity to touch, try, and feel the products, enhancing the overall shopping experience. Made-to-order is a sustainable business model that reduces waste and inventory costs. ✅ Investing in branding from the beginning can unlock doors and attract customers. ✅Building a strong community around the brand is crucial for growth and customer loyalty. ✅ Balancing workload and managing time and energy are ongoing challenges for founders. ✅ Accepting the possibility of failure allows for a more level-headed approach to problem-solving. ✅ The goal is to change consumer habits and promote a more sustainable approach to fashion. Batch Ldn: https://batchldn.com/ 🔥 RESOURCES WE CREATED FOR YOU! ⚡️💻 Sustainable Fashion Business Software https://www.portia.cloud/ ⚡️💻 6-Step Clothing Brand Startup Course - To 6 Figures And Beyond https://academy.apparelentrepreneurship.com/step/clothing-brand-startup-course/

In this Apparel Entrepreneurship Podcast episode, Nick Hussey, founder of Frahm Jacket, shares his journey of creating a brand that emphasizes quality, mental health, and sustainability. He discusses the challenges he faced in his previous business, the importance of a pre-order model, and his unique marketing strategies. Nick also delves into his design philosophy, the significance of mental health in entrepreneurship, and his vision for the future of Frahm Jacket. He offers valuable insights for aspiring entrepreneurs, emphasizing the need for self-awareness and understanding the realities of running a business. Takeaways ✅ Frahm Jacket focuses on creating high-quality jackets for real life. ✅ Mental health is a core value of the brand, influencing its mission. ✅ Nick's personal journey shaped his approach to entrepreneurship. ✅ The pre-order model helps manage cash flow and reduce waste. ✅ Building trust with customers is essential for long-term success. ✅ Sustainability and ethical practices are prioritized in product development. ✅ Marketing should be honest and reflect the brand's values. ✅ Nick emphasizes the importance of learning from failures. ✅ Community and support networks are vital for entrepreneurs. ✅ Self-awareness and understanding the business landscape are crucial for success. Frahm Jacket: https://frahmjacket.com/ Apparel Entrepreneurship: In this Apparel Entrepreneurship Podcast episode, Nick Hussey, founder of Frahm Jacket, shares his journey of creating a brand that emphasizes quality, mental health, and sustainability. He discusses the challenges he faced in his previous business, the importance of a pre-order model, and his unique marketing strategies. Nick also delves into his design philosophy, the significance of mental health in entrepreneurship, and his vision for the future of Frahm Jacket. He offers valuable insights for aspiring entrepreneurs, emphasizing the need for self-awareness and understanding the realities of running a business. Takeaways ✅ Frahm Jacket focuses on creating high-quality jackets for real life. ✅ Mental health is a core value of the brand, influencing its mission. ✅ Nick's personal journey shaped his approach to entrepreneurship. ✅ The pre-order model helps manage cash flow and reduce waste. ✅ Building trust with customers is essential for long-term success. ✅ Sustainability and ethical practices are prioritized in product development. ✅ Marketing should be honest and reflect the brand's values. ✅ Nick emphasizes the importance of learning from failures. ✅ Community and support networks are vital for entrepreneurs. ✅ Self-awareness and understanding the business landscape are crucial for success. Frahm Jacket: https://frahmjacket.com/ Apparel Entrepreneurship: In this Apparel Entrepreneurship Podcast episode, Nick Hussey, founder of Frahm Jacket, shares his journey of creating a brand that emphasizes quality, mental health, and sustainability. He discusses the challenges he faced in his previous business, the importance of a pre-order model, and his unique marketing strategies. Nick also delves into his design philosophy, the significance of mental health in entrepreneurship, and his vision for the future of Frahm Jacket. He offers valuable insights for aspiring entrepreneurs, emphasizing the need for self-awareness and understanding the realities of running a business. Takeaways ✅ Frahm Jacket focuses on creating high-quality jackets for real life. ✅ Mental health is a core value of the brand, influencing its mission. ✅ Nick's personal journey shaped his approach to entrepreneurship. ✅ The pre-order model helps manage cash flow and reduce waste. ✅ Building trust with customers is essential for long-term success. ✅ Sustainability and ethical practices are prioritized in product development. ✅ Marketing should be honest and reflect the brand's values. ✅ Nick emphasizes the importance of learning from failures. Apparel Entrepreneurship Portia Frahm Jacket⁠

In this episode of the Apparel Entrepreneurship Podcast, we speak with Richard Sutcliffe, founder of Passenger Clothing, based in the UK.  Passenger started 12 years ago and is now approaching £100 million in sales. They are all about capturing that spirit of escape and adventure, through sustainable products. It's not just clothing; it's about crafting a way of life that aligns with our deep respect for the outdoors. Since the start, they have been on a mission to use eco-friendly materials to lessen the impact on the places we love. What started as a small idea born from Richard’s personal passion and global travels has blossomed into Passenger, a brand that champions sustainability, encourages exploration, and captures the essence of escapism.  In this episode we talk about: 👕 Why Passenger was founded - Learn about the unique origins of the brand and how personal passion and global travels sparked its creation.  🌿 Sustainability at its core - Richard discusses how Passenger is pioneering in eco-friendly practices and responsible fashion, striving to give back to the planet.  🌍 Global inspiration, local action - Explore how influences from the Pacific Northwest and Canada have sculpted Passenger’s distinctive style.  📈 Business growth and challenges - Hear about the hurdles they've overcome and the strategies that propelled Passenger from a modest startup to a million-pound business.  🚀 Future horizons - Get insights into Passenger’s future plans for expansion and how they continue to innovate in the fashion industry. Richard’s story is not just about building a brand; it’s about igniting change and pursuing a mission that goes beyond apparel. Whether you’re an aspiring entrepreneur, a fashion enthusiast, or someone passionate about sustainability, this episode is packed with valuable lessons and heartening stories. 🎧 Listen now to get inspired by a journey of passion, innovation, and resilience! Passenger: https://www.passenger-clothing.com Apparel Entrepreneurship: https://www.apparelentrepreneurship.com #ApparelEntrepreneurship #SustainableFashion #EntrepreneurJourney #FashionInnovation #PassengerClothing

In this episode of the Apparel Entrepreneurship Podcast we talk with former Olympic athlete Peter Häggström Lindecrantz, the visionary founder and CEO of YMR Track Club.  The brand started to commemorate the 100th anniversary of his old track club and it’s also deeply rooted in the rich textile heritage of Sweden.  We talk about how his experience in track and field has infused discipline and a unique aesthetic into his fashion enterprise, emphasizing sustainability and local production. Episode Highlights: Athlete to Entrepreneur: How Peter's background in sports inspired him to launch a fashion brand. Sustainable Practices: Insights into YMR Track Club’s commitment to local production and its impact on sustainability. Design Philosophy: Peter discusses how the brand's design ethos is directly influenced by his athletic background and Swedish heritage. Challenges and Triumphs: An honest look at the hurdles of running a fashion business and how to overcome them. Looking Ahead: Peter's future plans for YMR Track Lab and his vision for the brand’s growth and expansion. Tune in to gain valuable lessons on building a brand with a strong identity and ethical foundation. This episode offers a deep dive into combining passion with business acumen to create a lasting impact in the apparel industry. YMR Track Club: https://ymrtrackclub.com/ 🔥 RESOURCES WE CREATED FOR YOU! ⚡️💻 6-Step Clothing Brand Startup Course - To 6 Figures And Beyond https://academy.apparelentrepreneurship.com/step/clothing-brand-startup-course/ ⚡️💻 The Apparel Entrepreneurship Members’ Club - Tools, Resources & Community https://memberzone.apparelentrepreneurship.com/membership/ ⚡️💻 How To Write A Business Plan Workshop https://academy.apparelentrepreneurship.com/step/business-plan-workshop/ ⚡️💻 Find Your Brand Niche & Unique Value Proposition https://academy.apparelentrepreneurship.com/step/find-your-brand-niche/ ⚡️💻 Apparel Entrepreneurship Tools & Templates https://www.apparelentrepreneurship.com/shop/ ◽️◽️◽️◽️◽️◽️ ⬇️ More stuff you should check out ⬇️ ** FREE 6-STEP APPAREL BRAND FRAMEWORK WEBINAR ** https://youtu.be/jlnm6Pd7zLk ** JOIN THE APPAREL ENTREPRENEURSHIP NEWSLETTER GIVING YOU INDUSTRY UPDATES, CONTENT, TOOLS, INSPIRATION, GUIDES, AND SPECIAL OFFERS! ** https://www.apparelentrepreneurship.com/newsletter/ ◽️◽️◽️◽️◽️◽️ SAY HI ON SOCIAL: APPAREL ENTREPRENEURSHIP Website: https://www.apparelentrepreneurship.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/apparelentrepreneurship/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/apparel-entrepreneurship/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@apparelentrepreneurship Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/apparelentrepreneurship DESINDER - Strategy, Branding & Design Agency Website: https://www.desinder.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/desinder/ Transformers Foundation:

In this episode of The Apparel Entrepreneurship, Ana & Klas interview Pascale Moreau, Founder and Managing Director of Ohana Public Affairs, and discuss the importance of understanding and complying with the upcoming legislation and regulations in the textile industry. The industry is experiencing a shift towards sustainability and circularity, and brands need to be prepared for the changes. There is a need for companies to gather data and implement traceability strategies to comply with the eco-design legislation. You will also learn about the digital product passport, which will serve as a tool to capture and showcase product compliance. Brands must start with eco-design and forced labor legislations as key priorities. The conversation explores the impact of upcoming legislation on the fashion industry, focusing on sustainability and circularity. The discussion covers the need for brands to comply with the legislation and the challenges they may face in implementing the required changes, as well as the importance of education and consumer behavior change in driving sustainability. The conversation highlights the opportunities for innovation and differentiation that the legislation presents. This episode provides resources for brands to find more information and support in navigating the new regulations. Takeaways ✅ The textile industry is undergoing a shift towards sustainability and circularity, and brands need to be prepared for the upcoming legislation and regulations. ✅ Compliance with the eco-design legislation is crucial, as it sets requirements for product performance and environmental impact reduction. ✅ The digital product passport will serve as a tool to capture and showcase product compliance, and brands need to invest in IT systems and traceability strategies. ✅ Certifications and data gathering will be important for compliance, and non-compliance can result in fines, withdrawal of products from the market, and restrictions on business opportunities. Brands should prioritize eco-design and transparent communication/content and start gathering the necessary data to ensure compliance. Brands in the fashion industry need to comply with upcoming legislation on sustainability and circularity. ✅ Education and consumer behavior change are crucial in driving sustainability. ✅ The legislation presents opportunities for innovation and differentiation. Resources like industry associations and blogs can give guidance and support for brands navigating the new regulations. Links Ohana Public Affairs: https://www.ohanapublicaffairs.eu/ EOG: https://www.europeanoutdoorgroup.com/ Sustainable Apparel Coalition - Cascale: https://cascale.org/ 🔥 RESOURCES WE CREATED FOR YOU! ⚡️💻 6-Step Clothing Brand Startup Course - To 6 Figures And Beyond https://academy.apparelentrepreneurship.com/step/clothing-brand-startup-course/ ⚡️💻 The Apparel Entrepreneurship Members’ Club - Tools, Resources & Community https://memberzone.apparelentrepreneurship.com/membership/ ⚡️💻 How To Write A Business Plan Workshop https://academy.apparelentrepreneurship.com/step/business-plan-workshop/ ⚡️💻 Find Your Brand Niche & Unique Value Proposition https://academy.apparelentrepreneurship.com/step/find-your-brand-niche/ ⚡️💻 Apparel Entrepreneurship Tools & Templates https://www.apparelentrepreneurship.com/shop/ ◽️◽️◽️◽️◽️◽️ ⬇️ More stuff you should check out ⬇️ ** FREE 6-STEP APPAREL BRAND FRAMEWORK WEBINAR ** https://youtu.be/jlnm6Pd7zLk ** JOIN THE APPAREL ENTREPRENEURSHIP NEWSLETTER GIVING YOU INDUSTRY UPDATES, CONTENT, TOOLS, INSPIRATION, GUIDES, AND SPECIAL OFFERS! ** https://www.apparelentrepreneurship.com/newsletter/ ◽️◽️◽️◽️◽️◽️ SAY HI ON SOCIAL: APPAREL ENTREPRENEURSHIP Website: https://www.apparelentrepreneurship.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/apparelentrepreneurship/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/apparel-entrepreneurship/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@apparelentrepreneurship Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/apparelentrepreneurship DESINDER - Strategy, Branding & Design Agency Website: https://www.desinder.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/desinder/ Transformers Foundation: https://www.transformersfoundation.org/