MODALYST

MODALYST is an online, wholesale marketplace connecting designers and retail buyers from around the world. Modalyst aggregates the orders of independent retailers, enabling them to collectively reach the minimums that a designer needs to go into production, and for retailers to receive bulk order discounts as a group! We provide all the work flow tools that a designer needs to scale their wholesale business, while opening a selling channel to a global network of retailers. Modalyst is leveling the playing field for the independents by providing retailers with the same purchasing power as a department store, while building and scaling brands.

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Editors Picks: Maria Martin

When it comes to style, I believe that you can wear anything with enough confidence and conviction. It pains me to hear people say “I could never pull that off” because this should never be the case! Preferring to experiment with different styles according to how I’m feeling when I wake up that day, I’ve never stuck to one particular look. I love finding pieces that are bold and one-of-a-kind! Good thing Modalyst is full of unique designers! Melina Vou’s  Sasha Jacket is perfect for spring, especially the chilly spring we've been experiencing this year! I'm loving the juxtoposition of heavy wool with soft, delicate silk. TNEMNRODA's Mia Sunnies are unconventionally adorable and add a perfect touch of vintage to any outfit. Popinjay's Timurid Baguette is such a classic.  I love the sliver of floral pattern to contrast the masculine shape of the bag. How could I not include Ayaka Nishi's Coral Necklace? Her designs are so exquisite and artistic, they make for such gorgeous statement pieces! The same goes for Chetna Signh, her Silent Bells scarf exemplifies beautiful artistry. I'm obsessed with Sarsen's Isabeau Moto Jacket because it is absolutely fierce. This is definitely a jacket to save up for! Three of my favorite necklaces on Modalyst are; Moran Porat's Metals and Beads Necklace, Simon Robbie's Thunderbold Diamond Cage Ring and Elena Estaun's Knhum Necklace! I honestly believe, any plain outfit can be jazzed up with the right necklace! 

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Retail Spotlight: Art Urbane

Modalyst has decided to turn the spotlight onto some of our coolest retailers! This week we are featuring Art Urbane,  sells fine arts, designs and decorative arts to fund public art projects worldwide. Proceeds from every purchase directly supports the construction and maintenance of public art projects in your city, state or country. Art Urbane believes the world in this day is deserving of monumental works of art that represent the community and cultural fabric of each city and state.

So check them out online at http://www.arturbane.com/ 

What is the story behind your store?

In 2012, serial entrepreneur, Jessica Beavers glimpsed the beautiful aerial installations by artist Janet Echelman and realized the extreme aesthetic and economic value public art has on communities, yet the scarcity of funding and the absence of creative channels for individuals to support and be excited about public art.

Wanting to help and immediately inspired, she created Art Urbane, a company that would give large proceeds from sells of fine art, design and fashion to help fund creative development projects worldwide and be the portal where individuals could support the public arts in their city. In essence, Art Urbane is Art for Art.

What is the style of your curated collection?

When we source through creative designs we often think, could this be a public artwork sculpture? We aim to have creative objects that are functional, cutting-edge and beautiful, objects one would see in a museum store - treasures.

Who are your customers?

Socially conscious individuals worldwide, art patrons, collectors, members of art non-profits and businesses.

We work with non-profits in a very unique way. We work to set-up gallery stores on their website of Art Urbane designs, where from every purchase proceeds are donated to their organization. We also advertise our designs to their large membership base through newsletters and social media.

How do you discover new brands & products?

Modalyst has been a blessing! We work with many independent artists and designers and finding them in one location with a simplistic, streamlined process of communication has been a huge time saver. We particularly love the email communication feature in Modalyst, and the layout and designer selection features are unprecedented in the industry. We are working with many great designers from the Modalyst platform because of this.

What do you look for in a brand or product to carry in your store?

Creativity, quality in execution and dependability.

What is the biggest challenge in the discovery process?

Understanding the production terms and the dependability of the designer/artist relationship with Art Urbane takes time. That is why we love Modalyst. We are able to gauge the terms of production beforehand, the designers are vetted and serious, and the site is also wonderfully curated - it speeds up the process considerably.

Who are is a designer you love on the Modalyst platform?

There are so many! Reason to be Pretty, Coyoba, Ten2Midnight Studios, and fashion designers, Alicia Reina and Melina Vou are a few. The list goes on. 

What is the best part of owning and running your own store?

The ability to truly impact the world in your own way and actualizing your passions is the best part of starting and running a company. The challenges, risks and problem-solving required is invigorating. Art Urbane has ambitious plans to engage audiences internationally to support the creative developments in their own back yard. We also aim to help artists and designers turn their "craft" into a lucrative profession through creative sales channels.

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In Store Mobile: An opportunity for retailers

*Photo courtesy of Brand + Commercial

Brand + Commercial recently published an article on the growing importance of “mcommerce” for fashion retailers.  More so than ever, shoppers are actively using their smartphones to browse products, read product reviews, and compare prices when they are in a store.   For brick and mortar retailers, this is a huge opportunity to leverage smartphones to engage customers in-store.   Brand + Commercial lays out three ways retailers currently use in-store mobile.  They include: 1) Training sales associates to utilize iPads to show customers complete product assortments; 2) Using iPads to distribute digital questionnaires for customers to complete and receive product recommendations based on their responses; and 3) Offering wi-fi so that customers can scan barcodes to purchase products at a later time at home or even pay for their purchase using a mobile app.    Author Kathryn Green offers a compelling argument for the role of in-store mobile technology:   “With customers actively seeking more information on their phones while they are shopping, it makes sense for retailers to provide it, while they have the chance to buy on the spot. Using in-store mobile technology in this way also makes the shopping experience easier and more rewarding for customers who are accustomed to the online experience. With brick-and-mortar revenue decreasing, mobile presents a strong opportunity to close the gap between online and offline, and to minimise the cannibalisation of in-store sales by online shopping.” Modalyst retailers—how are you leveraging mobile technology in your store to engage customers?  Please share your ideas and practices in the comments section below!

 xxE

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Brand Spotlight Interview - JADA LYNTON

Born in Birmingham, England, Jada Lynton began working as a Design Assistance at London womenswear label Georgia Hardinge upon graduating from the University of the Arts Rochester.  After a stint in consulting and freelancing, she has boldly stepped into the launch of her personal collection. 

1. What made you decide you wanted to be a designer?

Well, I’ve wanted to be a fashion designer since I was 5 years old. I know it seems very young to know what you want to do for the rest of your life but I’ve always stuck with it. Whenever I set my mind to something I’ve always tried to achieve it. 

I guess my main influence was my mother, she had her own fashion business when I was a child, so I’d watch her sew and think I’d like to do that one day. She actually kept her studio equipment for all those years knowing I’d use it one day. I always looked up to her and still see her as my inspiration, she has instilled a strong work ethic in me that is very much needed for this industry. I have amazing family and friends that support me in doing what I love i’m really grateful for that, as running your own business is tough I couldn't do it without their support.  

2. What profession would you take on if you weren’t a designer?

I think if i had a real talent for it I would have loved to have been a dancer. I’m a creative person so anything that allows me to express myself creatively would have been the second choice, either that or a big change, like a… nutritionist I really try and take care of my self, eat right and exercise, its something I have a real interest in so I would have liked to have done that too.

3. Who inspires you the most in fashion?

People who dress for themselves, don't follow exact trends, know what suits them and then put a hint of their personality in the mix. I admire designers like Haider Ackermann, Raf Simions and Pheobe Philo, but interesting people inspire me the most.

4.  How would you describe your style?

Minimalism with a rustic industrial edge.  Outerwear and classic staples with experimental cutting techniques.  Understated, chic with a little rock and roll 

5. What would you say are your trademark pieces?

Leather biker jacket, trench coat, little black dress

6. What is inspiration for autumn winter 14?

Autumn winter ’14 is about rebellion, craft and the 1960’s ton up boys

7. What are your favorite fabrics and colors to work with?

I really enjoy working with leather thats my real love, i love the smell, its timeless, its durable and it makes the perfect statement piece. I also like work with crepes in wools and silks, as well as putting contrasting textures together, things that make you want to touch and feel, with a real quality that make you want to wear it over and over. 

In terms of colour I like black!  most people think black is black but there is still so much you can do with it. There are different tones and when you play with texture you can create dept and create light with high shine, and layer it with transparency or use matte or highly textured fabrics. There’s something very sensual about black. Whether you drape it or make something really structured it can say so much. 

When I do use colour I like to keep it understand or tonal. If I use a bright colour its usually minimal. I use it to depict emotion and mood. Color can really evoke feeling and thats what I want my clothing to create. 

8.  Do you have a specific research process when you start designing new pieces

I’m inspired by people mainly strong characters with an individual style, an inspirational charter with a bit of a story behind them.  My design process generally starts with me writing a story with a specific person or character in mind, where they live, their personality, what music they listen to.

Then I collect old and new references which could be from art, architecture, nature,  photography, something thats in the news or a story i’ve heard or and experience, a feeling. I’m inspired by so much its from everywhere and anywhere, but in the end its always joined together to represent my customer and how i think they’d like to feel in their clothes.    

9.  What made you decide to join Modalyst?

Being a new brand Modalyst is great platform to make connections with buyers it allows me to easily upload my line sheets and sell wholesale with great control and ease. It enables me to start a conversation with buyers world wide and conveniently continue those connections all year round. An essential tool for new brands to utilise.

10. What has been the highlight moment of your career so far?

I think starting the brand and going it alone. It has always been a dream of mine and it’s been challenging but I'm really looking forward to the future, developing the business and seeing it evolve. Connecting with my customer and taking on new projects.

11. Who is you ideal customer? 

A very modern woman that likes to mix and match high and low cultural references to create there own eclectic sense of style. I imagine a women who knows who she is, know what she wants, what she stands for and lives life with purpose. A woman with a classic sense of style who dresses with elegance and individuality.

12. Who embodies the spirit of the brand? 

 At the moment I’m really inspired by Lupita Nyongo I would love to dress her, she has a real class and grace about her which is very rare these days. Her Oscar acceptance speech was everything!    

13. What music do you listen to in your studio at the moment?

London Grammar, Temples, Arctic Monkeys, Disclosure, Pharrell, The Weekend 

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DESIGNER SPOTLIGHT W/ Denise Cronwall, Viviona Wang & Maggie Zembruski

The designers in this week's DESIGNER SPOTLIGHT will inspire you with their athletic apparel to get a beach bod just in time for the warmer weather! Nothing kicks my butt into shape more than cute workout gear to sport at the gym. Well there is... seeing pictures of models in a bikinis...

So let's get inspired, there is work to be done!

DENISE CRONWALL by Denise Cronwall

Where or what do you draw your creative inspiration from?

"People watching" is very creatively stimulating for me. By observing people I can get submerge myself in what is trending and what people are interested in at this point in time. Observation of others also helps me gather inspiration "seeds" that I make note of and when I design many of those seeds bloom.

How would you describe your personal style?

My personal style is constantly evolving and can vary from one day to the next. Although, I must say I have always had a deeply rooted love for the Boho-chic influence, which is trending now. I have a weakness for paisley prints and earthy colors with strong color accents. A touch of romance or shabby-chic is also always present in my personal style as well as my design aesthetic.

Why do you think sports wear is becoming increasingly important to people?

Sports wear is becoming increasingly important because we are spending much more of our time alive exercising!

Do you play tennis? Who is your favourite player?

I play tennis from a young age, it is an amazing and addictive sport because it can be picked up at any age, it is social, it is great exercise, you don't need to be that good to have fun with it and best of all you get to wear a skirt ;)

Why did you decide to join Modalyst’s fashion marketplace?

We joined Modalyst because we want to have a greater reach and be able to connect with more buyers nationwide as well as globally. We believe this is a great innovative platform to connect new upcoming designers with boutique-type buyers.

Viviona Swimwear by Viviona Wang

What inspired you to begin designing swimwear?

The love of ocean and beach, the passion for fashion, the inspriation of health and fitness and the pursuit of the life style.

One-Piece or bikini?

We carry both, but more one pieces for this season and the collabroration line with Zaha Hadid. One pieces have bolder statement and have more room for body figure correction. One pieces are my personal favorites. 

What is the most difficult aspect about swimwear design & how have you managed to overcome it?

The most difficult part is swimwear does not have a lot of fabric to play around. The fabric has to be wearable in water and fast to dry. So we are using a lot of other techniques to make the design more interesting. Like this year, we used a lot of laser cut and geometric designs.

What is the most flattering bathing suit color?

I'm particular about white sand beaches. Just love them. Black and white are the forever colors. Majority of our designs this season are black and white, the basic element in the colorful world. Black on white sand beach or white on white sand beach! Can't be more classy!

Why did you decide to join Modalyst’s fashion marketplace?

Modalyst attends the customers well and fits the customer's wholesale needs. Looking forward to a great year.

Me2Roo by Maggie Zembruski

What inspires you most?

Being able to design beautiful pieces that inspire and empower women.

How would you describe your personal style?

My friends tease me that they never see me in anything but leggings and a ponytail, but I hope to think I’m a bit more sophisticated! Perhaps a well-curated mix of luxury meets vintage and yes, always sprinting in a pair of vintage Nike’s.

Why do you think sports wear is becoming increasingly important to people?

Modern day women are leading much more healthy and active lifestyles. Also, “work force” attire of a suit and heals has been replaced with leggings and lifestyle wear – sportswear no longer means just gym wear.

What is your favorite sport to play? Has this activity influenced your designs?

I love the water and grew up sailing with my dad but most recently, I have had the opportunity to indulge in a few surfing lessons. Surfing is a sport…. right? I really take note to the incredible colors and patterns of swimsuits and look for inspiration on new cuts that can be adapted into activewear.

Why did you decide to join Modalyst’s fashion marketplace?

As a small business owner, Modalyst provided me with the ability to showcase my collection on a platform that is accessible to retailers nationally and internationally. Without Modalyst, I would not have the manpower to connect with such influential buyers.

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RETAILERS REDRESSED: AN INNOVATIVE STORY

*Image taken from the NYTimes.com

Last week, the NYTimes published an article about one of our favorite retail outlets in NYC: Story.

If you have not had a chance to check out the innovative store in Chelsea, Story features a new theme and products every four to eight weeks. This means that products are only available for sale for a limited period of time and shoppers can expect a completely new assortment of products from one month to the next, all centered around a new theme.

A rotating selection of products is not the only thing that differentiates Story from other retailers. Story’s founder Rachel Shechtman has succeeding in attracting major corporations to sign up as sponsors for any one of the store’s themes.

In addition to shopping, Story also hold’s themed events which align with the month’s product theme.

At Modalyst, we love how many of Story’s products are made by independent designers! If you have had a chance to check out Story, we would love to hear some of your favorite designers from past themes. Please feel free to share any designers that caught your eye in the comments section below and maybe they will become one of Modalyst’s newest designers!

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IN THE INDUSTRY: FAST FASHION

*Image taken from Pacific Standard

Modern day retailers and designers are all too familiar with the term fast fashion; it is no doubt the source of your increased anxiety and weird eyelid pulsing. Fast fashion refers to the quick turn around of fashion trends from the catwalk to street. This is tricky for smaller retailers and designers alike not to mention the difficulties posed by ‘fashion hijackers’ such as H&M, Zara, Forever 21 or other chain stores that rip off high runway trends and sell them quicker and cheaper!

These massive stores are very attractive to shoppers around the world due to their low price point and the ever replenishing stock of new inventory. Is there anything that designers can learn from these giants to help them remain competitive but without sacrificing originality or quality? 

In a recent article published by Pacific Standard on Fast Fashion an interesting historical & cultural narrative provides context for retailers and designers as to why this phenomenon has been hugely successful but also highly volatile. Aside from the LA "Jobber Market" and Korean competitiveness driving Fast Fashion a new trend is on the rise. "Hauls" featured on "Vlogs". Hauls are video blogs that document a person's recent shopping spree and usually feature fast fashion products. Many of these Vloggers (video bloggers) on YouTube boast a huge following and are very influential. Should independent designers begin reaching out to these young fashion leaders and try and get their products featured? This is just one concept that can be extracted from the fast fashion phenomenon and re-purposed by designers everywhere! To read the full article visit Pacfic Standard here!

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WEEKLY PICKS!

This week's picks were selected by our sales manager, Lillian Anselmi! 

Although I love Fall/Winter fashion, I am so ready for this cold weather to be over with! To make me feel better, I put together an outfit that will transition into warmer weather. I started with the Melissa Jacket by Jada Lynton. Jada is one of my new favorite designers- she captures classic silhouettes on luxury fabrics so that they can be worn over and over. I accessorized with pieces that would subtly refer to Spring like Tnemnroda’s Mia Sunnies and Scialle’s Shaded Shawl. I love the dusty colors Scialle uses like the rose and light blue- great transitional hues! I love big arm pieces so Elena Estaun’s Foal Long Mesh cuff is worth saving for- looks equally great with a white tee as it does with more formal wear. Danielle Keller makes beautiful everyday pieces so I used her Geometric Gold Earrings as a basic. Lastly, everyone in the office knows I am a leapord freak- I would wear it head to toe everyday if I could….so I had to throw in Dapper Diction’s Riot Clutch to keep me sane. Voilå! Fall doesn’t look so bad after all….

XXL

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Designer Spotlight Interview: Stella Nemiro, Ellsworth & Ivey and Elena Estaun

This week's 3 spotlight designers have stark contrast in style but produce equally stunning pieces! We start with Stella Nemiro, whose jewelry adds a whole lot of glamour and vitality to any outfit. Ellsworth & Ivey by Taylor Ivey is collection of gorgeous, timeless capes that manifest class and elegance. Last but not least, Elena Estaun's bold, daring pieces will make any girl feel like an instant bad-ass.  

Check out our interviews with these 3 featured ladies! 

Stella Nemiro by Stella Nemiro

What would you be doing if you weren't a designer?

Design runs in my blood - my father is a sculptor and his strong love of art fostered my creativity from a young age. I have always worked in some sphere of design, whether it be interior design, houseware or gifts. My path has now led me to designing jewelry, and this medium is the perfect outlet for expressing my love for designing bold pieces that inspire confidence and creativity in the wearer. I simply cannot imagine what my life would be like without being a designer!

What was the first piece you ever made and who was it for?

I can’t put my finger on my first ever design, however some of my early pieces were selected and worn by Australian model Ruby Rose, and as such they will always remain precious to me as a symbol of the evolution of my designs. 

How would you describe your personal style?

Uniqueness gets me really excited and styles that might not ‘work’ in the traditional sense are the most interesting to me. I love bold prints, clashing colors and (of course!) statement jewelry. 

What is the one piece of advice you wish someone gave you when you first started your design career?

I wish someone had told me to never be afraid of my own ideas, and that my best designs would come from following my instincts instead of playing it safe. Of course the business side and the ‘behind-the-scenes’ of any brand is also much more time-consuming than anyone imagines as well.

Why did you decide to join Modalyst’s fashion marketplace?

I joined Modalyst to grow our international presence and create new relationships with retailers and buyers worldwide who are searching for bold statement pieces to complete their collections. 

Ellsworth & Ivey by Taylor Ivey

What would you be doing if you weren't a designer? 

 If I was not a designer, I would be pursuing a career in screenwriting, for film and television.  I have been writing screenplays since I was in high school and it’s a huge passion of mine!

What was the first piece you ever made and who was it for? 

A cocktail dress, for myself!  I had made pillows, blankets and bags growing up but the first design I made for myself to wear was a green cocktail dress with an open back when I was 18.  Unfortunately, just when I had finished the zipper broke and I was unable to wear it!  

How would you describe your personal style?  

Classic with a modern tweak, which is exactly how I describe my company’s style.  My typical uniform consists of skinny black jeans, Stubbs and Wootton slippers, a button- up (or turtleneck), and of course, a cape.  In fact, that is exactly what I am wearing now!  Clean and simple are two other words that come to mind.  I stay away from trends and instead would rather invest in a well-made piece that will never go out of style.  As you can imagine, I have a lot of black, navy and cream in my wardrobe!

What is the one piece of advice you wish someone gave you when you first started your design career? 

Hire a production manager! If you do not have experience actually producing garments, invest in hiring a freelance production manager.  A production manager works with many factories and is able to confirm better pricing and priority on your garments.  Of course, you have to pay him/her, but the stress/workload it relieves you from is invaluable.  He/she will also help you avoid making costly mistakes, which can be crippling in the beginning.  While you will still need to be involved and triple checking everything, hiring a production manager will free up more time for you to market and sell your products.

Why did you decide to join Modalyst’s fashion marketplace? 

We decided to join Modalyst to connect with retailers across the country/world that I could not otherwise get in front of because of geography

Elena Estaun by Elena Estaun

What would you be doing if you weren't a designer?

I can imagine my life far from the jewels but it is impossible to imagine it away from the artistic or creative setting. I would have loved to develop a career in the performance stage (musical comedy)... I used to dance when I was younger, I started when I was 7, but when I started my career in the University it became very hard to continue with the same level of physical demand, and finally I quit. You should see our studio when one of my favorite songs is playing... I go crazy!

What was the first piece you ever made and who was it for? The first piece I made was one of my key rings and accidentally I broke it meanwhile I was bending it so I decide to keep it. Strangely, it has become one of my bestsellers..

How would you describe your personal style?

It is a difficult question! I could define it as eclectic and casual elegance, I have been influenced by the different cities I have lived in, such as Barcelona, New York, Milano, London, Madrid....I get inspired by cultures. I always look for comfort in tandem with having confidence. I think that your style, somehow, is a way to express yourself, so If you know me a little, you can guess my mood through my outfit.

What is the one piece of advice you wish someone gave you when you first started your design career?

I would have liked to listen before, when I was told: " you have to make many mistakes in order to go forward, you have to fall many times to learn how to get up and continue walking."  Thanks to Parsons and my internships, I got used to the fast paced industry. You know what? That piece of advice was given to me by one of my best professors and now, my good friend, Tom Handley.

Why did you decide to join Modalyst’s fashion marketplace?

Because I think it is an ideal way to get into another market and an interesting and well put-together site to help both designers and buyers. It is a new concept of showroom on-line.

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Retailers Redressed: Next Generation Retail at SXSW

  Last week, leading entrepreneurs, innovators, and technologists convened in Austin, Texas for SXSW Interactive.  SXSW has become one of the largest conferences worldwide where the brightest minds in technology can showcase and discover emerging technology and the best new websites.

While SXSW has an impressive schedule that spans five days and hundreds of speakers, one panel in particular caught our attention: Next Generation Retail Stores.  If you have a chance to check out the video SXSW posted when the idea for the panel was first pitched to attendees, you will discover the mind-blowing ways Kate Spade and eBay are driving customer engagement!  It is remarkable how Kate Spade is transforming window shopping from window browsing to actual window shopping!  This panel also featured RedLaser, a free shopping app which allows customers to shop at a brick and mortar boutique 24/7 (yes, even when it is closed!).

  To our Modalyst retailers (and designers!)—how are you leveraging technology to drive customer engagement?  While Kate Spade’s technology is very advanced (and expensive to build) and eBay’s strategy involves a lot of human capital, what kinds of ideas do you have for smaller, independent retailers to employ technology?

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Brooklyn Independent Fashion Week!

Remember last month when Alexander Wang hosted the New York Fashion Week show for his fall 2014 collection in Brooklyn—and everyone was simultaneously intrigued yet also slightly annoyed? Well, looks like the industry is going to have to start getting used to crossing water, because Brooklyn Fashion Week is about to become a thing.

"Everything knows that out of all the borough presidents, I'm the most fashionable, so it's only fitting," Brooklyn's Borough President Eric Adams said, as he announced that the inaugural Brooklyn Fashion Week would kick off on March 13 (next week!) in Sunset Park.

The four-day event will open with eco-friendly collections the first night, African-inspired collections the second evening, European-inspired fashion the next day, and Brooklyn-based designers on the final day.

What will New York Fashion Week organizers think of Brooklyn going rogue? Who knows, but it's exciting that emerging talent will be showcased on its own stage this way.

"A lot of designers don't have the funding to show at New York Fashion Week," Fashion Week Brooklyn spokeswoman Colleen Armstrong told the New York Daily News. "But they're just as good."

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DESIGNER SPOTLIGHT INTERVIEWS W/ SCIALLE, C.ALEXANDRIA & IAN JAMES

This week’s DESIGNER SPOTLIGHT features brands for both men and women. You might be drawn to the beautiful prints of Scialle Shawls, the perfect accessory for the summer or if you have a west coast vibe will likely love Ian James bags and duffles! C.Alexandria features accessories as unique and intricate as the women who wear them. Which collection represents your style? We want to know!

Don’t forget to Like us on Facebook & Follow us on Twitter @Modalyst for all the latest fashion news, designer info & event details!

For wholesale inquiries regarding any of these and our other designers please visit Modalyst.

Scialle Shawls by Jane Cuddehe

Who is your style inspiration?   I am continually inspired by women I see in the city who know how to accessorize, who dress smartly whether for business or pleasure, and who utilize a few well-chosen accessories to impart a personal flair to their outfits. In my opinion, a well-chosen scarf that can be tied in so many diverse ways, adds something to an outfit that is more than the small piece of lovely material that it actually is.

My style inspiration is the confluence between a savvy New York aesthetic and the craftsmanship of Italy. The changes in the marketplace since 2008 have left a gap in this particular area, especially for accessories. Buyers from the US stopped developing product in Italy. This drove an expansion in the upper tier designer brands, but left out comparable offerings in the bridge tier. Scialle fills that gap. Our factories produce scarves for all major designer brands, and we utilize the same designers and fabrics as they do.   A scarf is a timeless, yet contemporary wardrobe item, and I see this usefulness for an outfit spanning many age groups. For this reason, if I had to choose known faces and names for inspiration, I would say youthful- Katie Holmes; fun- Jennifer Lawrence;  chic- Ivanka Trump; classic- Cate Blanchett; timeless- Audrey Hepburn.

How does your brand resonate with people?

I have been thrilled to see the growth of Scialle in the boutique business, in which we have been specializing. It is clear that our client notices and appreciates the fine quality and design of our scarves, and our business continues to grow every season. As an alternative to retail price points of $500+, with comparable quality, and with a very reasonable price point, I would say that Scialle excels.

What has your biggest accomplishment as a designer been so far?

My ability to align the collections with my core clients has grown every season, and thanks to the boutique owners who recognize and reward the Scialle aesthetic, I have felt gratified that I am continuing to align with their discerning retailers and to the women they serve.

  *Italian Factory Visit

How has technology impacted your business? Are there any challenges?

Scialle has had a website for many years, and there are countless examples of new clients coming on board when they easily access the website. A website is a billboard to the world, and the “pictures” are worth a 1,000 words. The speed and simplicity of of file sharing technologies like Drop Box and Google Drive never cease to astound me. One of the challenges however, is that in the online marketplace one cannot see and feel the fine nature of the product. People love to see, feel and interact with the product.  I see this lack of tangibility with the product as a drawback for new brands that want to succeed online.   We are a customer service operation for our retail partners, and work in every way to make sure they are happy with Scialle. We will send samples as requested if a retailer would like to feel the quality before committing to a large buy, and we are completely supportive of all questions and requests. I think I learned this very early from my parents, both of whom were in the retail business, and taught me that “the customer is always right”.

Why did you decide to join Modalyst’s fashion marketplace?

Modalyst aggregates Retailers and Brands. I see this as a great benefit for both the retailer and the brand. Multiple showroom stocking of samples is costly. Continual buying trips to see collections are also costly. Modalyst has created a platform to address the needs of both components of the sales process. Through this platform we hope to meet new retail clients and to be partners in making their businesses grow as well.

C.Alexandria by Cire Alexandria

Who is your style inspiration? I am really inspired by NY street style and their individuality and how it's express it through clothing and adornments.

What has your biggest accomplishment been as a designer so far? I have been reaching out to larger art shows and was accepted in Renegade this past summer in Chicago, that was huge for me.

How has technology impacted your business? Are there any challenges?

To start, the use of square to accept credit cards with my phone has been amazing, to be able to document and connect in photos via Instagram is life changing.  I love Pinterest and Tumblr, not only for marketing but its like taking a day to walk through a virtual museum packed full of artistic inspiration.

Why did you decide to join Modalyst’s fashion marketplace? I really believe its the next step in taking my small business to the next level, I am looking forward to creating new relationships with other business owners and creating art for them.

Ian James by Ian James

Who is your style inspiration?

The most impactful person that captures my interest is Reed Krakoff. The manner in which he infuses luxury and affordability into his collections inspires me greatly and I admire how he grew Coach to such a powerful brand. It is great how uber-wealthy fashionistas, modern soccer moms, and even the young professionals can find a common thread in his work.

How does your brand resonate with people?

The best quality in my brand is its timeless appeal that can resonate with both men and women. My customers appreciate how the bags can easily fit into their lives while maintaining their unique sparks. I try to make bags that are special without being loud or untranslatable.

What has your biggest accomplishment been as a designer so far?

Though it is not a specific event, the biggest accomplishment I have reached so far is being able to compete with established brands that outsource their production and graphic qualities. I make every bag, take every picture, build my website, and market my brand myself. I was fortunate enough to complete two successful Kickstarter campaigns to build my business to this point, which I could not have done without a very loyal and supportive customer base.

How has technology impacted your business? Are there any challenges?

Technology is a huge factor is businesses as it creates endless ways to attract customers and secure transactions. Between social media, official websites, and in-person phone card swipers, business can be conducted anywhere. The downside is everybody is able to do this, which can muddle the market a bit. However the muddled market forces business to be creative and push the boundaries.

Why did you decide to join Modalyst’s fashion marketplace?

As a very young and small brand, it is often hard break into brick and mortar stores that buy months in advance and often stick to the same brands. Modalyst allows smaller designers the chance to fully interact with stores that may not have seen us or would have to wade through hundreds of email requests.

[modalyst-blog]

Retailers Redressed: The Perfect Fit!

TrueFit's Big Data Aims To Solve A Big E-Commerce Problem

Last week Forbes shared some surprising data from SaleCycle—that is, 73.9 percent of shopping carts that are started on e-commerce sites do not actually make it to the check out! This is most prevalent in the travel industry and apparel comes in a close second.

“Only about 10 percent of apparel and footwear purchases happen online,” Romney Evans tells FORBES. The co-founder of TrueFit, a data analytics company, believes sizing plays a big part in consumers’ lack of confidence.Drapers Etail Report found that sizing problems accounted for more than 70% of fashion purchased online was subsequently returned.

TrueFit is trying to solve this problem by compiling a database of information on brands and styles and using this information to provide customers with customized fit and sizing recommendations based on their own body, style, and fit preferences. With TrueFit, customers can now make purchases online and be confident that items will fit!

For Modalysts’ designers and retailers, with e-commerce sites this is certainly a great tool!

[modalyst-blog]

In the Industry: Branding for Designers

Designers should be thrilled about the influx of new competition in the industry because this means that independent designers are beginning to reclaim the fashion market! There are new companies who are working to revolutionize the fashion industry. Modalyst's wholesale marketplace democratizes the industry allowing emerging designers to compete in the same space as older more established brands. As the industry becomes more accessible the challenges designers face continue to evolve. Now that the playing field is beginning to level how will designers stand out and take their brand to the next level?

SLATE Designs is a branding agency that specializes in helping emerging fashion labels connect with consumers. Start Up Fashion recently interviewed SLATE founder, Lee Stevensen about her company and how she addresses the needs of designers. To read the full store visit StartupFashion.com or visit SLATE Designs for contact information.

Power to the emerging & independent designers!!

[modalyst-blog]

DESIGNER SPOTLIGHT INTERVIEWS

It's Wednesday, my absolute favorite day of the week! Why? Every Wednesday we feature interviews from our DESIGNER SPOTLIGHT! If you are fashion forward then you will love this week's designers. No matter your style - bohemian-chic or rocker glam or Mediterranean goddess - you will be at the cutting edge of the fashion you love!

Alicia Reina by Alicia Reina

What is your favorite piece in your collection, past or present?

Its hard to choose a favorite when they are like your kids but if I where to choose... I would say that my favorite piece is the red wool and lace jumpsuit from the "Entangled" collection.  I used one of my closest friends, fine artist, Guston Abright's finger painting to create a textile print that I placed in the center panel and lining.  I like to see people's reaction when they find out that it is actually fingers clustered together in a vibrant color palette. 

When or where does your best creative brainstorming take place?

When I am riding the subway, I tend to zone out, or when I am watching a movie or a show.

Who are your favorite retailers & why?

I am a big fan of Opening Ceremony as I love Carol and Humberto's surrealist approach when merchandising their store.  There is always something fun and exciting to look at.  They have a more juvenile, dynamic, tactile approach to their esthetic than most serious conservative stores especially in NYC.  They tend to select the pieces/designers that are more out of the box (not mainstream) and take a chance with them.  It makes you feel welcomed and want to touch and feel everything!  Every time I visit the store I want to run to my studio to create!

What is the one piece of advice you wish someone gave you when you first started your design career?

Take a business course.  Pay attention to the actual operation of the business (especially the sales) in addition to just the designing.  This is something that I have come to learn as I go and sometimes wished I had had a mentor who had gone through the same experience whom I could bounce ideas with.  

Why did you decide to join Modalyst’s fashion marketplace?

I decided to take a chance to push my sales efforts as this is the toughest part.  Since you are not creating a more "main stream" product it can sometimes be difficult to get your foot in the door and get people to look at your product.  Going digital is also an alternative approach to marketing and sales. It is more instant and has a much more extensive reach.

Lena Quist by Lena Quist

What is your favorite piece in your collection, past or present?

My all-time favorite piece is the Art Deco Catsuit, that's available now. I feel that it represent the brand and my style very well. It's that wow-piece that draws immediate attention to the wearer. And that's what my brand is about; to stand out from the crowd, be yourself and don't apologise for who you are.

When or where does your best creative brainstorming take place?

Usually, when I'm creating a new collection, I go out to just sit and watch people, I go to art galleries and music events to sort of "gather impressions." Then I go home and end up sitting in a large pile of fabrics, magazines and sketches. I am my most creative self when I have lots of things around me that inspires me.

Who are your favorite retailers & why?

I really like a strong point of view and a great concept. I think the most important thing when you are shopping is to feel inspired, so my favorite retailers are the ones that can inspire their buyers to go outside their comfort zone and dare to try something new.

What is the one piece of advice you wish someone gave you when you first started your design career?

I wish someone would have told me how much time I would spend on the business part. That it was so much more to having a fashion brand than creating nice designs. But you don't think too much about that when you are 22, just graduated from fashion school and wanna get started right away. I did figure it out on my own; how to run a business and how to make it grow, but it might have been a bit easier with some kind of business advice before starting.

Why did you decide to join Modalyst’s fashion marketplace?

I've been having a break from doing wholesale, to focus on other parts of the business, and felt that Modalyst was a good option when getting back into it again. Since I have customers worldwide, but mainly in the U.S. Modalyst was a good choice with it's New York base. And I also must add that I really like the concept, to connect independent labels with independent shops.

Melina Vou by Melina Vou

What is your favorite piece in your collection, past or present?

Every season, I always have several “favorites” within the collection. For me, my favorite pieces are always the ones, which involve a technical detail or an intricate stitch. Basically, the ones that have made me work hard! From my FW 14/15 collection, I really love the Leila dress and the Mena trousers.

When or where does your best creative brainstorming take place?

My most creative moments take place when I’m traveling. I am fascinated by human interaction, and the effect that cultural diversity has on this. Whenever I travel I sit at café’s, in parks, or even waiting for my flight at the airport and I observe people; the way they move, interact with each other and their body language. All of these elements stimulate my creativity.

Who are your favorite retailers & why?

There are so many! Dover Street Market is definitely one of my favorites. I love the way they combine established and emerging designers. The combination of the various elements that create the interior spaces of the stores is fascinating and described, as “beautiful chaos” by Rei Kamakubo and that’s what life should be! They are continuously doing great things with such artistic vision and innovation. Net-a-porter must be mentioned as my favorite online retailers. Natalie Massenet had a vision at a time where online stores were almost unheard of, so this is commendable and highly admirable to say the least. It has become one of the most reputable and well-respected high-end online fashion spaces.

What is the one piece of advice you wish someone gave you when you first started your design career?

Before I launched my label I did a whole load of research and then some! I spoke to lots of professionals in the industry and they provided me with invaluable advice. In my everyday life I’m very impulsive, when it comes decisions in the studio however, I contemplate over decisions for days on end! So the one piece of advice would have been to not over analyze a design or a fabric choice and to just go with instinct. Trial and error is the best teacher though!

Why did you decide to join Modalyst’s fashion marketplace?

Selling on a platform with so much exposure and access to international retailers is a fantastic opportunity, especially as an emerging label. Being based in Europe and having the opportunity to be part of a selling community based in the U.S is also a huge advantage. It’s also part of the process of establishing which market(s) you belong as a designer.

[modalyst-blog]

In the Industry: Business for Designers

*Picture supplied by the Fashion Institute of Technology 

Do you have a NYC based fashion design business in apparel or accessories?

Have you been in business for at least 1 year?

Do you have some press and sales to prove your traction?

Then you are eligible to apply to Design Entrepreneurs NYC developed by the Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT)! This is a "mini- MBA", weekend intensive mentorship program for designers to participate in over the summer.

Designers will have lessons in areas of their business like finance, operations, and marketing. Designers will also have the opportunity to compete for a $25,000 and $10,000 prize as well as have access to FIT resources during the program.

If you want to take your emerging fashion business to the next level you must apply by March 31st, 2014. 

To learn more about the program visit their website DENYC, follow @DesignPreneurNY or visit their Facebook page. You may also wish to attend an Emerging Designer meet up to network and chat with professionals in the industry!

Visit the Emerging Designer website for the application posting at:

http://theemergingdesigner.com/open-call-design-entrepreneurs-nyc-recruiting-for-the-class-of-2014/

[modalyst-blog]

Weekly Picks!

Time for another one of our Friday Weekly Picks featuring our favorite items from the Modalyst wholesale marketplace!

I’m Lyse and I work in retailer relations here at Modalyst! I would probably describe my style as classic and sophisticated. I love timeless pieces that transition well from day to night and can be paired with different accessories for a completely new ensemble! I’m always looking for apparel and accessories that can be worn for a casual day at the office, conference, or meetup, but love to add special items to my wardrobe for Saturday nights.

The Lotus Foldover in Black by Popinjay, the Satchel Hexa by Bellebas, and the Copley Green by Cashhimi are essential handbags that can be paired with a dress or blazer and jeans for everyday. If I am looking to accessorize a LBD for business, I will choose the Formica Kites Necklace by Shlomit Ofir, the Meta Bracelet by Andrea Bocchio, or The Celeste Woven Bead Necklace in Coral and Cream by Jennifer Loiselle. When I have a special function or conference to attend, I love to wear the Verona Drop Slit Skirt by Jada Lynton with the Hannah Hard Body Satchel by Jess Rizzuti. On a Saturday night, I will wear my LBD with the Four Directions Loksi Collar Necklace by Kristen Dorsey.

To stay warm this winter, the Rowen Mobius by DylaniumKnits is an essential, and pairs well with the Shadow Hood by Sarsen and a pair of black leggings. Looking forward to Spring and Summer, I think that the Handmade Crochet Necklace by Lamprini and the Envelope Clutch by Medusa are fun, colorful must-haves for day or night.

At Modalyst, I love how we feature socially-conscious designers. Two of my favorite pieces are the O’Eclat Cross Body by O’Eclat, which is made by women artisans in Nigeria and the Breakthrough scarf by ChetnaSignh, which supports Breakthrough’s Ring the Bell campaign.

xxL