In episode 102, women’s workwear brand founder Aditi Sinha speaks out against pocket inequality for women in the workplace. Hear how she is leveraging extensive research and customer feedback to close this gap - not just with the size of pockets - through her brand Point of View Label. 

Aditi Sinha is the founder & CEO of Point of View, a Seattle based functional and designer workwear brand on a mission to end pockets inequality for women through smartphone pockets in everything they make. POV has started the 'Pockets Pledge' movement, a change.org petition where women all over the world demand functional pockets from the fashion industry.

With over 15 years of work experience, Aditi is a big tech marketing executive alum with the likes of Amazon as well as early member of decacorn start ups back home in India. In her role as a founder and former corporate business leader, she has mentored multiple women and start ups in the early stages of their professional journey. Aditi is passionate about bringing meaningful change with respect to women's equity and diversity. 

• Aditi’s point of view on women’s workwear
• Why pocket inequality is a big deal in the workplace
• The research Aditi did before starting POV and what it revealed about today’s women in the workforce
• How Point of View Label’s brand tenants helped curate their debut collection
• How Aditi met her co-founder Sakina
• How Aditi collects and organizes customer feedback in a way that is useful for future reference
• When polarizing designs are a good thing

• Point of View Label website
• Point of View Label Instagram

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In episode 101, Kalia Carter gets real about the challenges she’s faced creating BodyCon The Brand exclusively to fit full-bust women. She’s faced pushback from factories and internet trolls alike for her unwavering focus on full-bust fit, but she’s also created the pieces she’s always wished she could wear and has a growing community of women in her niche that get it and support what she’s building.

Kalia started BodyCon the Brand as a fuller-bust clothing brand. Growing up she had always struggled to find pieces she was comfortable in, that flattered her, and that actually fit. This applied to almost everything: bras, tops, dresses, and swimsuits. You name it! Everything was either too small on the chest and fit the waist, or fit the chest and was too big on the waist! Kalia started this brand to attempt to solve this problem! She first launched in March of 2024 and has been able to serve hundreds of happy customers. Kalia is actively working on new pieces and always looking for inspiration in new trends!

• How Kalia developed and stays firm on BodyCon The Brand’s full-bust size chart
• How to communicate sizing effectively for e-commerce 
• The expensive lesson Kalia learned about manufacturing
• Why Kalia uses a different factory for each of her designs
• How Kalia develops her tech packs without having good comp samples to reference
• The good and the bad sides of going viral for your business
• The number one thing that has fueled BodyCon The Brand’s social media growth

• BodyCon The Brand website
• BodCon The Brand Instagram

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In episode 92, The Shortlist founder Laura Briggs gives us a detailed look at how her fun and cheeky petite-only brand has reached profitability. From pricing and production to business operations, Laura describes the growing pains she’s gone through and the huge milestones she’s reached as she’s scaled her 3-year-old business.

Laura was also my guest two years ago on How Fitting episode 37 where she talked about how she first started The Shortlist and what her first year of entrepreneurship looked like.

The Shortlist is a premium, limited edition petite fashion brand.

• Why Laura moved production from the UK to Poland
• How many collections The Shortlist released before it became profitable
• What the turning point was for profitability
• What Laura is changing since realizing The Shortlist customer base is wider than she originally thought
• The balance between innovative designs and familiar basics
• How The Shortlist has built exceptional loyalty and repeat business from its customers
• Laura’s genius system for celebrating how far the business has come at each step
• The rollercoaster of launch day and what Laura is doing to minimize the challenges
• How Laura balances sharing her personal entrepreneur story and The Shortlist brand voice in her marketing and copywriting
• Laura’s plan for scaling The Shortlist this year
• How Laura’s long-term goal for The Shortlist drives her decisions now

• The Shortlist website
• The Shortlist Instagram
• The Shortlist LinkedIn

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Daphne Benzaquen is the creative designer, CEO and founder of daph., a St. Louis-based fashion and lifestyle brand inspired by her Peruvian heritage.

She was inspired to start daph. while pursuing her M.B.A. at Washington University’s Olin School of Business. After having trouble finding a backpack that was functional, high quality, and fashionable, she decided to design her own bag, incorporating the unique materials and craftsmanship of Peru, and daph. was born.

Founded in 2016, daph. is one of the only U.S. fashion and lifestyle brands that solely combines modern, timeless designs with Peruvian resources and handcraftsmanship.

Daphne is passionate and committed to giving back, donating a portion of all daph. sales to support children with special needs in Peru. She also supports local charities in daph.’s headquarters, and is actively involved in the St. Louis fashion community, helping to mentor and support other designers and entrepreneurs, as well as serving as the marketing committee co-chair for Fashion Group International, Inc. Additionally, she serves on the Young Professionals Board for Annie’s Hope.

In 2019, Daphne was named one of St. Louis Business Journal’s ’30 under 30’, and has been featured in many local media publications and news outlets, including St. Louis Post-Dispatch, Riverfront Times, Ladue News, Town & Style, Fox 2 News, ‘Show Me St. Louis’, STL TV, and more.

• How a degree in Pre-Med, a Masters in Business Administration, and her Peruvian heritage lead Daphne to start her fashion lifestyle brand daph.
• Why she made giving back such a big part of her brand and business -- even when she was a brand-new start-up -- and the impact it’s had.
• How she found the factory that produced her first collection (who she still works with to this day).
• How she balances designing products that she personally likes with products that her customers love to buy.
• What she’s learned adding an apparel product line to daph. 
• How Daphne sees her customers and manufacturing partners like a community and how that has helped her during low points in her entrepreneurial journey.
• When she has learned to trust her gut. 
• Why Daphne thinks it is so important for designers to visit the factories that make their products.
• What’s next for daph. - Daphne gives us a sneak peak of what’s coming for Fall 2020 and Spring 2021!

• daph. website
• daph. on Instagram
• Daphne on LinkedIn
• Daphne’s email

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After watching the fashion documentary "The True Cost", Jessica couldn't "un-see" the facts about the impact of the fashion industry on the world. That began her journey to examine her own relationship with fashion and eventually start her brand, Mount Indigo, to spread awareness and advocate for a more sustainable fashion future.

Jessica currently splits her time between a corporate job in fashion as the Associate Manager of Brand Marketing for Soft Surroundings, a volunteer position as the Regional Director for Fashion Group International of Saint Louis, and growing her sustainable fashion startup brand, Mount Indigo. She specializes in fashion marketing and public relations and is very passionate about creating a more sustainable fashion industry.

• How watching a documentary about the impact of the fashion industry on our world prompted Jessica to start a sustainable brand
• What she did to start the brand and how she had to shift her vision to stay true to her mission
• How she decided what products would go in her launch collection
• How customer feedback is informing her messaging and sales pitch
• Why having colleagues and friends to bounce ideas off of is so important
• How she juggles a full-time day job, volunteering for a professional non-profit, and her start-up
• How her sustainability research and brand launch have impacted her own buying habits

• The True Cost documentary
• Mount Indigo’s website
• Mount Indigo on Instagram
• Jessica on Instagram
• Jessica on LinkedIn
• Jessica’s email

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Hello and welcome to the How Fitting podcast. I’m Alison Hoenes. On this podcast, you’ll get to hear from independent fashion designers and entrepreneurs about how they grow their business making clothes that fit their customer and values. 

I’ll be your host for this show, but I’m also a freelance patternmaker who helps independent womenswear brands keep control of product development without the technical hassle.

As a patternmaker, I care about how clothes fit. There is something special about how well-fitting clothes make us feel. But even beyond how a garment physically fits a body, I think our clothes should also fit well with our lifestyle and values. Clothes affect our view of ourselves and others and how we go about manufacturing and buying them reflects what our values are. How do my designs fit with my market niche? How do I make this specific style or trend fit my customer? How do I find a factory that fits my business needs? How do I find fabrics that fit with my brand’s value of sustainability? How do I make sure my designs really fit an inclusive size range? These or similar questions are things you’ve probably asked concerning your own brand.

And you’re not alone. I have conversations about these topics all the time with fashion business owners. These conversations are what inspired me to start this podcast to share these "fitting" stories and questions from independent fashion businesses. While the answers to these questions, the exact business values, and specific target markets are slightly different for each brand, I think there is alot that can be learned from seeing how other brands fit it all together. My goal is that you’ll find these stories inspiring and insightful and they’ll help you find the right fit for each area of your fashion business.

So, again, welcome! I’m glad you’ve joined me and I hope you are as excited as I am to hear these conversations. 

To make sure you never miss an episode, go ahead and subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Play, or Stitcher and visit howfittingpodcast.com for show notes and links to resources mentioned in each episode. 

I’d love to hear from you as well! What questions do you have? Do you have a fitting story you’d like to share? Reach out to me anytime here.

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In episode 91, hear how former opera singer Suzanne Vinnik designs bold, inclusive fashions that make women “feel seen” and encourage them to take up space for who they are. Knowing first hand what it is like to be exploited working in the arts, Suzanne runs her business differently. Her secret to success both on and off the stage is prioritizing community and personal relationships and paying everyone she works with living wages.

Suzanne Vinnik, a distinguished figure in both classical music and the fashion world, boasts a richly diverse career path. Originally traveling the world as an opera singer, Suzanne performed at renowned venues such as Carnegie Hall, Lincoln Center, and notable opera houses across Europe, Russia, Norway and the United States. As a leading soprano, some of her favorite operas included "Manon Lescaut," Nedda in "Pagliacci," Mimi and Musetta"La bohème," and Violetta "La traviata," captivating audiences with her emotive performances.

Parallel to her operatic endeavors, Suzanne embarked on entrepreneurial ventures, founding Shoperatic, a pioneering social media network and marketplace tailored for women in classical music. This platform served as a hub for artists to connect, collaborate, and showcase their talents, solidifying Suzanne's reputation as an innovator within the industry. Users could buy, rent, sell and promote their outside skills. 

Driven by her passion for fashion and a commitment to inclusivity, Suzanne transitioned seamlessly into the realm of design, launching "byVINNIK," a luxury womenswear brand celebrated for its size-inclusive ethos and ethically manufactured garments. Based in the heart of Los Angeles, Suzanne's designs have graced the frames of Classical Music luminaries, Broadway stars, and prominent figures in television and film. 

The impact of Suzanne's creations extends beyond the realm of entertainment, with her designs featured prominently on platforms like Disney+, Netflix, and HBOMax's acclaimed series "The White Lotus," on Jennifer Coolidge earning recognition with an Emmy nomination for Outstanding Contemporary Costumes. Her work frequently adorns red carpets, editorial spreads, and stages worldwide, embodying a fusion of sophistication, elegance, and inclusivity.

Suzanne holds a Bachelor of Music in Vocal Performance from Texas Christian University, supplemented by studies at prestigious institutions such as Mannes College of Music and Otis College of Design. She further honed her craft at the Opera Studio of Accademia Nazionale di Santa Cecilia in Rome, mentored by the late Renata Scotto, and as an Administration Fellow at The Dallas Opera's Hart Institute for Women Conductors.

Beyond her artistic pursuits, Suzanne is a passionate advocate for entrepreneurship, ethical manufacturing practices, and classical music education. Her expertise as a textile connoisseur, style forecaster, and classical music aficionado has positioned her as a sought-after keynote speaker at conferences, and universities, and as an expert for popular TV Shows like Today Show and Access Hollywood. Through her inspiring journey from opera singer to fashion designer, Suzanne empowers women of all backgrounds to embrace their confidence and individuality, embodying the transformative power of artistic expression.

• Why Suzanne left a worldwide career in opera to start a fashion brand
• The transformative power of owning your boldness and dressing accordingly
• How Suzanne created a loyal community before she even started her brand
• How the personal relationships she’s built with her clients influences her design decisions
• Why ethical production and paying fair wages are so important to Suzanne
• The people on Suzanne’s team and what they each do in the business
• How By Vinnik’s production model has changed and why
• How Suzanne prioritizes her day to not burn out even though she’s “bad at boundaries”
• What Suzanne has learned the hard way about the fashion industry
• Why Suzanne designs a lot of outerwear for her collection

• By Vinnik website
• By Vinnik Instagram

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In episode 90, hear how Aja Cohen left her big corporate fashion career for a lifestyle - and fashion business - that put relationships and her values first. Transcendent Active is helping women embrace who they are and move confidently toward their goals. Her modest activewear designs aren’t just covering, but also comfortable, sustainable, and functional and are worn by more than just the modest community.

After designing fast fashion for over a decade, Aja Cohen launched an activewear brand for the woman she believed was not being spoken to in the marketplace - the modest woman.  At the time, she struggled to find modest activewear pieces that weren’t made of heavy, non-breathable fabrics or couldn’t wick sweat away properly. More importantly, she couldn't find brands that matched her strong ethical values of sustainability and locally made.  She knew there had to be a better option for women who wanted to workout, do good for Mother Earth, and honor their religious values.  Transcendent Active was born at the height of the Covid pandemic and combines eco-conscious fashion with strong ethical values.  Made in America from recycled plastic water bottles, the brand is committed to providing women of all faiths and sizes with high-quality, sustainable activewear. The signature All Day Active collection includes skirts, exercise dresses, quarter-sleeve tops, leggings, and bike shorts. Transcendent Active believes every woman deserves clothing that supports her lifestyle and faith while fostering confidence and style through movement.

• The positives and negatives of Aja’s corporate career in activewear design
• Why knowing your customer is so important
• How Aja has built a healthy business without selling on Amazon or manufacturing overseas
• Why the pandemic was actually a great time to start a business for Aja
• How Aja cultivates real connections and relationships with the people she works with
• How Aja decides her priorities and delegates the work to get it done
• How Aja approaches the difficult decisions of hiring and firing
• How customer research has shaped Transcendent Active’s collection
• Transcendent Active’s sustainability efforts
• How to stay focused on your values

• Transcendent Active website
• Transcendent Active Instagram
• Transcendent Active Facebook
• Transcendent Active LinkedIn
• Transcendent Active TikTok

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In episode 89, hear how Janet St Cyr & Diana Kerins have created a swim and resort brand inspired by nature and travel. Learn what this mother-daughter partnership did to land a dream collaboration with a luxury resort and how they are growing their business slowly and steadily.

Bambina is a women’s swim and resortwear brand owned and operated by mother-daughter duo Janet St Cyr and Diana Kerins. Their creations blend bold, vibrant aesthetics with unparalleled comfort to ignite confidence and happiness in those who wear them.

They’re committed to keeping production right here in the USA and their collections are sewn at a women-owned factory in the heart of New York City’s garment district.  From how they source materials to how they manufacture and package their products, they’re always learning and seeking out the most Earth-friendly ways to bring their collections to you. 

Bambina’s new resortwear launch for Summer ‘24 - The  Cardamom Collection, includes a beachwear robe and sarong featuring a custom print inspired by the endangered species of the Cardamom Rainforest in Cambodia. A percentage of proceeds from every sale will go towards The Wildlife Alliance to protect these beautiful and vulnerable creatures.

• How nature, the environment, and travel inspire Bambina Swim collections
• What it is like working as a remote mother-daughter partnership
• Why Bambina business started out sporadic and what changed for Janet and Diana to take it more seriously
• What Janet and Diana look for and design in a quality garment
• Why Janet and Diana are intentionally growing the business slowly
• How Bambina gets its funding
• How Janet and Diana landed a collaboration with a luxury resort to stock their recent collection
• What Diana and Janet’s goals are for the future of Bambina

• Get 10% off at bambinaswim.com with code: HOWFITTING
• Bambina Swim website
• Bambina Swim Instagram

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In episode 88, textile sourcing rep Jay Arbetman of The Sourcing District walks us through how to source wholesale fabric for your independent fashion brand - even in low quantities. Jay shares insights on fabric quality, sustainable fibers, and how to not spend months on your fabric search. With decades in the business, Jay knows what questions designers should ask and what has helped his longest-standing clients be so successful.

Jay has been in the garment and textile business since he was a teen. He spent the 1980's in NYC selling to department stores and specialty stores throughout the country. When he stopped making apparel, he started selling buttons and zippers and eventually morphed into fabric. He now represents 10 suppliers and sells to indie designers throughout the country.

• Why fashion brands should never buy fabric at retail stores
• What makes the suppliers Jay represents ideal for independent designers
• What designers need to have prepared before talking to a sourcing rep
• How to source fabrics in-person, over the phone, and at trade shows
• How to not spend months on your fabric search
• The questions Jay wishes designers would ask
• Do you get what you pay for when it comes to fabric?
• The cost of made in the USA textiles
• What MOQs and timeline to expect for sampling and production
• What differentiates successful designers in the long run
• What is new in sustainable textiles 

• The Sourcing District website
• Jay’s email
• The Sourcing District Instagram
• The Textile Show in Nashville April 3-4, 2024

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In episode 87, life-long lover of fashion and modest dresser, Rivky Itzkowitz, shares how she makes fashion work for her and other women like her through her brand Impact Fashion. Rivky seamlessly weaves her Orthodox Jewish values, skillful design and patternmaking, and fashion sense into each piece for sizes 2-28. 

Rivky Itzkowitz is a fashion designer living in NYC. As a practicing Orthodox Jew, she was frustrated at not being able to find modest clothes that actually fit, so she set out to create her own. Her company, Impact Fashion, is among the only size-inclusive modest fashion lines on the market. Every style is fitted to perfection and is available in sizes 2-28 because there’s no reason why it shouldn’t be. She is also the host of the Be Impactful Podcast where she sits down with the women making a difference in their own corners of the world. You can find her @impact.fashion.nyc and see all of her designs on impactfashionnyc.com. Listen to the Be Impactful Podcast wherever you get your podcasts.

• How Rivky has always her love of fashion fit her personal values
• The real cost of offering inclusive sizes (hint: it’s not what you’d think)
• Why good design and good fit require caring for bodies of all shapes and sizes
• The insights Rivky gained from working as a seamstress doing alterations
• How Rivky chose her business name - and why the name is not actually that important
• The three values that Impact Fashion is built on
• How Rivky developed the inclusive size chart for Impact Fashion
• The reasons why Impact Fashion switched from being a wholesale line to selling only retail
• How Rivky structures her days to get everything done
• Why Rivky started her podcast, Be Impactful, and the results she’s seen after 200+ episodes

• Impact Fashion website
• Be Impactful podcast
• Impact Fashion Instagram

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In episode 86, Kirby Best, the CEO & President of the innovative on-demand factory Bespoke Manufacturing Company, talks about what on-demand production is and what it means for the future of fashion. Learn the pros and cons of an on-demand model and how to know if it is a good fit for your fashion business.

Kirby is currently the President & CEO of BMC.Fashion, iCreate.Fashion, and 3100 West.

His main focus is on creating value to the customer through "on-demand" and fully customizable products using the finest technical material possible.

He is the past President & CEO of Lightning Source Inc. the world's largest digital print-on-demand book manufacturer, and a division of Ingram Industries.

Kirby was the founder and CEO of Royal Book Manufacturing - a company that optimized the book manufacturing process for speed, efficiency, and cost.  Kirby has served on several Boards including the BMI (Book Manufacturers Institute). He has written articles for trade journals, published several books and spoken at industry shows worldwide on the future trends in the manufacturing and information analysis industries.

Prior to his business career he represented Canada in many World Championships. He was the driver of Canada 1 - the four man bobsled and skied on the biathlon, speed and freestyle skiing teams for Canada.

Mountain Biking, Road Biking, Soaring and Polo are his top four sports today. He has four sons - all of which enjoy challenging him at everything!

• What on-demand production is and how it is different from the traditional production model
• The benefits and downsides of on-demand production
• What an on-demand production model can look like as a brand grows and scales
• The type of products that are the best fit for BMC’s Phoenix plant
• How the role of a designer might shift with widespread adoption of an on-demand production model
• The costs of on-demand manufacturing versus traditional bulk production
• The high-tech systems that BMC uses and the human roles that technology cannot replace
• The lessons they learned from their first factory that have improved BMC’s Phoenix plant
• The best way to prepare to work with BMC
• Kirby’s outlook on the future of the fashion industry

• Bespoke Manufacturing Company
• Bespoke Manufacturing Company Instagram
• 3100 West
• Redefining Fashion: A Sustainable Future BMC video
• The True Cost documentary

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In episode 85, design agency founder and intimate apparel brand co-founder Kristen Anderson reveals the inner workings of the lingerie and swim industry. Kristen speaks from her experience as an in-house designer, freelancer, intimate apparel design agency owner of KRSTN NDRSN, and co-founder of the intimates brand Iteration sharing the lessons she’s learned and the new innovations she’s excited about.

Kristen has been designing apparel for over 13 years and has built a strong reputation for her innovative products, technical and fit expertise, and deep understanding of the end user. Her wide-ranging design skills have been sought out by powerhouse brands and fast-growing start-ups such as Adore Me, Sheertex, Knickey, Lane Bryant, and Victoria's Secret. Kristen currently runs KRSTN NDRSN LLC, an intimate + swimwear design studio started in 2019, designing and developing garments for DTC start-ups, VC-funded brands, and independent labels.

As the founder and CEO of iteration, an apparel brand started by Kristen, she aims to leverage her intimate knowledge of apparel design, fit, and functionality to create better-made, more sustainable garments from conception to customer. Her extensive industry experience in intimates has allowed her to identify critical gaps in the market and opportunities to introduce innovative solutions. Kristen is passionate about sustainable fashion, thoughtfully engineered design, and constantly improving and enhancing the entire customer experience. She believes there is an opportunity to do better for the customer, the planet, and the factories. 

Kristen was the first designer hired at Adore Me, where she contributed to a team that increased sales from $5 million in 2013 to nearly $84 million by 2016. During Kristen's tenure at Adore Me, it was the fastest-growing lingerie start-up in the United States. From 2016 to 2019, Kristen was the lead swimwear designer at SwimUSA. Kristen's career started in 2010 at Bennett & Company, where she worked on the Lane Bryant, Victoria's Secret, and Hanes brands. She earned her BS degree studying Design and Merchandising at Framingham State University, where she graduated with honors. She won the Young Alumni Achievement Award from FSU in 2016 and was accepted into the Project Entrepreneur program by UBS and Rent the Runway in 2018.

• How Kristen got into the intimates, lingerie, and swim niche
• Kristen’s perspective on the industry having held in-house, freelance, and brand founder roles in her career.
• Why her first brand never launched
• The benefits of an outside perspective
• How Kristen and her co-founder have co-created their brand, Iteration’s, products with a community of customers
• The biggest lingerie pain points Kristen hears from women
• The software that is inspiring Kristen's designs and business right now
• The expensive lesson Kristen and her co-founder learned while visiting a factory in Sri Lanka
• The speed of start-up life and why the direction actually matters more

• KRSTN NDRSN intimates and swim design agency
• Iteration lingerie brand
• Kristen on Instagram

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In episode 84, UPPERCASE founder and designer, Sophie Kissling, tells us what she’s learned, the mistakes she’s made, and the smart choices she’s made throughout her career as a designer and personal stylist. She now weaves her experience seamlessly into smart closet services - including wardrobe edits and the UPPERCASE line that fills the gaps in sustainable wardrobes.

UPPERCASE was born as an expression of freedom. We created a collection for you to either fill in the gaps in your wardrobe or create an easy wardrobe. So you have the time to do whatever matters most to you, rest assured you are dressed for the occasion. Time is a precious thing and among other million things, time is also meant to enable a space where true dialogue within ourselves occur. 

Our wardrobe should reflect who we are and be our ally. Help us achieve our goals and dreams. So you could say we basically sell time and freedom. 

In a more personal level, it is also an expression of freedom because it was born as a means to gain financial freedom. As a divorced working mom, most of the decisions about my children’s future depended on the restrained financial situation we were at. I decided that in order to succeed in being truly independent I needed to become financially free first. 

And being a self-educated designer and stylist for so many years, it felt right to finally fully dedicate to it. In the end, the ultimate goal is always love. Love for your community and love for what you do.

• How Sophie learned about fashion design and sewing
• The mistakes Sophie made with her first fashion brand and how she’s approached UPPERCASE differently
• Why Sophie chose to base her brand in (and move to) Miami, FL
• Tips for editing a smart and sustainable wardrobe
• The impact Sophie wants UPPERCASE to have and what she’s doing to make that happen
• How Sophie’s personal styling background influences how she designs for UPPERCASE
• How long it took to start her brand from initial concept to website launch
• How Sophie found her factory
• Why an on-demand production model makes sense for UPPERCASE’s mission and business 

• UPPERCASE website
• UPPERCASE Instagram
• Bespoke Manufacturing Company – on-demand factory

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In episode 83, Sadie Burton shares her story about starting her fashion brand, FRST John, with a focus on real women, real life, and real impact on her community. Hear what she’s learned about designing, marketing, and wholesaling and the big plans she has for FRST John’s impact in the future.

FRST JOHN is a purpose-driven brand focused on designing feminine yet functional womenswear. Each collection gives you a tailor-like fit as if it were made specifically for you. Beyond the fit, our Texas-based founder and designer knew it was necessary to create not only a beautiful brand but one steeped in philanthropy. Her own experiences with abuse have driven her to lead her life with purpose and help others who have struggled with the same. A portion of every garment sold from our curated collections are donated to local women’s shelters specializing in domestic and sexual abuse. Join us in empowering women, in style.

• Why Sadie started making her own designs after starting an online boutique
• The ways Sadie designs for real women and real-life
• The vulnerable story behind FRST John’s mission
• Why philanthropy is an important part of FRST John
• Sadie’s approach to styling and designing for FRST John
• Why Sadie decided to focus on wholesale instead of DTC for FRST John
• How Sadie was welcomed by other brand owners at her first trade show
• Sadie’s experience selling FRST John at wholesale trade shows
• The benefits of going to wholesale shows beyond taking orders
• How Sadie is incorporating buyer feedback into her next collection
• What FRST John’s design calendar looks like

• FRST John website
• FRST John Instagram
• How Fitting episode #29 with Kimberly and Miriam of PWR WMN

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It’s episode 100 of How Fitting®! Each of these conversations with fashion designers and business owners has explored how they create clothing and grow a business that fits their customer, lifestyle, and values. I have enjoyed getting to know each of these people and seeing what drives their decisions and it has been a privilege to share their stories with you on this podcast over the past four years. Fashion has meaning and significance far beyond the superficial look.

To celebrate this 100-episode milestone, I asked you, the listeners, which episodes and guests have stood out to you the most. Whether it was because you saw your own story in theirs, picked up a new business idea, or gained the courage to pursue your own values more fully, I want to celebrate the impact these stories have had.

In this episode, you’ll hear highlights from five past episodes and what made them a favorite. Each guest and brand have found their unique fit, but there is so much in each story that we can relate to and learn from. How Fitting is that?

• How to reframe sales and marketing from sleazy to being of service to your customers and your business
• The benefit of putting your community and lifestyle first in your business
• What it takes to make it as a fashion entrepreneur
• How long it took for this founder to go from zero knowledge of how clothes are made to turning a profit in her fashion brand.
• How to find support and inspiration from your friends and family
• How to overcome the fear of failure

• HF#72: Selling Your Products Without Selling Your Soul with Elizabeth Stiles
• HF#90: Prioritizing Customer Research and Values To Shape A Modest Activewear Brand with Aja Cohen of Transcendent Active
• HF#37: The Fun & The Reality of Fashion Entrepreneurship with Laura Briggs of The Shortlist
• HF#92: Reaching Profitability In Fashion Business with Laura Briggs of The Shortlist
• HF#81: The Basics of Timeless Slow Fashion with Emily Bracey of Juuney
• HF#29: Equality, Power, and Functional Pockets For All with Kimberly Borges and Miriam McDonald of PWR WMN

• HF#77: The Fat Success of Comfort and Good Fit with Marina Hayes of Peridot Robes
• HF#95: The Underrated Skills That Will Get You Far in Fashion Business with Madison Powers of Madison Victoria
• HF#58: Perfecting The Craft of High-End Tailoring with Keti McKenna of Ketivani

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In episode 82, hear how attorney-turned-designer Sopi Mitil turned her frustration with the lack of well-fitting petite professional attire into a business: The Sopi Mitil Co. The brand offers short (but not just small) women stylish, professional attire that fits curves like a glove without a trip to the tailor. 

The Sopi Mitil Co. is a fashion brand that has emerged as a beacon of empowerment and style for petite and curvy women. Founded by Sopi, a former attorney turned fashion entrepreneur, the brand was born out of her personal struggle to find stylish and professional clothing tailored to her size. Sopi's dedication to creating a solution to this common problem has resulted in a brand that offers: inclusive sizing, personalization, fashion diversity, sustainability, luxury, empowerment, and exclusive offers. The Sopi Mitil Co. has emerged as a trailblazer in the fashion industry, addressing the long-standing issue of inclusivity for petite and curvy women. It offers a new way to embrace style and confidence, making fashion a source of empowerment for women of all sizes.

• What Sopi disliked about the typical petite sizing
• Where Sopi found women to participate in her customer research surveys when she first started the brand
• The different types of petite bodies
• Why Sopi produces her pieces in Italy
• What Sopi looks for in a good factory and what things she’s learned are red flags to avoid
• How Sopi’s mindset and business growth changed when she hired a team
• The two types of people everyone needs in their support network
• Why Sopi has a scale-up plan for her business
• How Sopi incorporates customers’ and her team’s feedback into the designs

• Sopi Mitil website
• Sopi Mitil Instagram

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In episode 81, hear how Emily Bracey took what she learned in fashion school in a whole new direction that focuses on timeless, slow fashion, and ethical fashion in her brand Juuney. Inspired by her grandma June’s purposeful and resourceful closet, Emily creates basics that can go from a wedding to naptime and are made to be meaningful for generations.

Juuney was born out of the founder, Emily Bracey’s vision to bring the timeless elegance of her Grandma June’s dress collection to a new generation. Grandma June’s reverence for beauty and fashion imprinted on Emily and she carried that spark of inspiration through college at FIT and into starting Juuney.

“I still think about Grandma June’s closet and the experiences I had with her that shaped my perception of what timeless fashion is. Looking back, I can see that the love and care surrounding my Grandma June’s dresses truly enhanced their beauty and value. I still wear my grandma’s pieces and noticed that most of my friends don’t have pieces that have been passed down.”

I started sewing in early high school, but had been designing since 6th grade when I decided I wanted to be a fashion designer. I went to school at FIT in NYC and realized that the fast fashion world was not for me, but I knew one day if I kept working and saving money I could start my own brand that didn't hurt the planet and people as much as others. 

• What Emily realized about the fashion industry while studying at FIT
• The inspiration behind the Juuney brand and style
• The pros and cons of using new fabric versus upcycled textiles
• What gives clothes meaning
• How Emily found her development agency and how she knew they were a great fit
• How to know if a factory is actually paying fair wages
• How long (and how many samples) it took to develop the June dress
• How Emily balances running the business, designing, and sewing pieces
• Why you need to treat yourself as a worker and not just as a boss in your small business
• The questions Emily asked to figure out what her wholesale and retail pricing should be
• The nuances of educating consumers on slow fashion as a brand that is selling fashion

• Juuney website
• Juuney Instagram
• Maker’s Row - US manufacturing directory
• Blank Canvas -  development agency

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In episode 80, Joie LaFrentz shares all the thoughtful decisions that go into designing for Jola, her line of colorful basics with a twist . Learn how she balances design, production, sales, and admin for her business all from remote Iowa. 

Joie LaFrentz was born and raised in Iowa and has always had a love for design, color, and fashion. She studied both fashion merchandising and design before ending up with an art history degree. After living all over the country, Joie settled back in Iowa to raise her family amongst hard-working people and open spaces. The idea of having her own line was always in the back of her mind, so after having four boys who were past their toddler years, she took numerous classes to ensure she had the foundation needed to launch JOLA. When she’s not trying to keep her growing crew fed or running to their activities, she spends every free minute sourcing sustainable fabric, manufacturing partners, marketing her line, and spreading the word on how color can be uplifting in our daily lives.

• The education Joie invested in before starting her brand
• How the midwest lifestyle inspired the five blouse designs
• The values Joie incorporated into her business from the start
• How color plays an important role in Jola - and in our lives
• How Joie found the perfect fabric even without prior experience with textiles or sewing
• How Joie found her factory
• Why manufacturing in the USA is important to Joie
• How Joie has grown beyond her comfort zone to sell the Jola collection
• The balance between transparency and privacy and authenticity that Joie has found for her business

• Jola website
• Jola Instagram
• The New School (Parson’s School of Design)
• Factory45 sustainable fashion brand accelerator

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In episode 79, hear how Jenna Loyal, the founder of Pro Hac Vice, has created a fashion-forward brand that petite women actually want to wear - all while working a full-time day job. With thoughtful fit, feminine details, and quality fabrics, Pro Hac Vice serves style in just the right proportions.

Jenna Loyal is the founder of Pro Hac Vice, a New York City based clothing brand for petite women, 5’4” and under. Pro Hac Vice makes well-fitting clothing with feminine silhouettes, unexpected details, and high-quality fabrics. Jenna's greatest passion for the brand is to make clothes that petite women will actually be excited to wear.

• What Jenna struggled with as a petite woman that made her start her own petite fashion brand
• Why Jenna decided not to put together a whole business plan
• Why Jenna started her branding and social media before having any products or even designs
• How long the process took from design to finished product
• How Jenna decided on the two initial pieces for the Pro Hac Vice collection
• Why Jenna chose to work with a consulting agency to develop her designs instead of hiring freelancers
• How Jenna balances a full-time legal career with running her brand
• The skills from Jenna’s legal career background that help her in her entrepreneurial life

• Pro Hac Vice website
• Pro Hac Vice Instagram
• CFDA resource directory

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In episode 78, mother-daughter duo Stephanie and Mary Cayten Brakefield share their passion for universal design that is fun, comfortable, and accessible. Their brand, Brakefields, is built on the idea that designing accessibility is better for people of all abilities and that fashion should be functional without sacrificing style.

It’s funny how the sum of all your experiences come together to create opportunities. Stephanie Brakefield learned to sew before she started kindergarten, making clothes and blankets for her dolls alongside her mom who was making beautiful garments for herself and her two daughters. In high school, Stephanie spent her free time designing and sewing clothes, painting and working with the disabled population.

Little did she know that some 40 years later, she would come full circle, finding herself creating a universally designed line of clothes with her daughter that encompasses all three of her teenage passions. A lot happened during those 40 years. She attended Vanderbilt University earning bachelor’s and master’s degrees in Special Education. She taught in the classroom for six years then turned her attention to her favorite job, raising her four children.

A couple of years ago when her youngest daughter, Mary Cayten, suggested they start a brand together, Stephanie was all in, and Brakefields was born! When the Pandemic hit in 2020, the two ladies reached out to women all over the world to find out what their closets lacked and what would make dressing easier.

With an initial focus on designing for disabilities, Mary Cayten and Stephanie soon realized that by adding adaptive features to their garments, their designs were desired by a much larger audience. Whether due to disability, motherhood, a demanding job, or simply an active lifestyle, all women need clothes that equip them for anything their day might ask of them. Quote from Stephanie: “Colors are like children; I could never pick a favorite. They all make me happy! I’ve surrounded myself with color, patterns, art, and fashion for as long as I can remember. In my eyes, leopard is a neutral and hot pink is a basic. I love combining my background in Special Education, love of art and design, and my desire to hear other’s stories into this brand we call Brakefields. And best of all, I get to work with my daughter every day!” 

Mary Cayten Brakefield is the cofounder of Brakefields, a universally designed clothing label that focuses on fashion and function. She, along with her cofounder/mom, work to design vibrant pieces that solve the problems created by traditional fashion. Whether due to disability, motherhood, a demanding job, or an on the go lifestyle, we all need clothing that is more functional and comfortable without sacrificing style. Mary Cayten’s work at Brakefields aims to provide exactly that! Mary Cayten was a student athlete at the University of Tennessee where she studied Retail and Consumer Sciences and earned a Masters of Marketing at Vanderbilt University. Between working with disabled athletes in college and then personally acquiring a disability soon after, she became passionate about accessible, universally designed products in the fashion world and beyond!

• What universal design means and why it is important
• What is is like working as a mother-daughter team
• The little details that make Brakefields pieces so accessible for all of life
• How Stephanie and Mary Cayten share their work
• How on-demand manufacturing allows them to offer more customization
• The challenges in marketing accessible fashion
• Stephanie’s and Mary Cayten’s long-term goal for Brakefields
• Their biggest clothing pet-peeves 

• Brakefields website
• Brakefields Instagram
• Bespoke Manufacturing Company - on-demand factory

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In episode 77, hear how Marina Hayes has grown her successful robe and lounge brand and a community of “fat activists” to provide more comfortable and well-fitting clothing options to plus size people. After selling out the first production run in less than two days, Peridot Robes has expanded their styles, fabrics, and the difference their clothes make for people that wear them.

Marina's entrepreneurial life began with reading The Babysitters Club at age 12 and was inspired to begin her first small business that very same year. Marina currently lives and loves in Chicago and owns 38 bathrobes. She still can't believe she gets to wear her pajamas to work every day.

• Why started her plus size brand with bathrobes
• Why Peridot doesn’t work with influences or pay for ads - and what they do instead
• How Marina finds and chooses models for Peridot product photoshoots
• Marina’s tips for designing plus sizes that fit multiple body shapes
• How Peridot sources its fabrics
• The power and kindness of the Peridot community
• How Marina balances being sustainable and paying ethical wages with offering accessible pricing
• What is causing many big brands to fail at plus size collections
• Why the message that the fashion industry is telling fat people is so damaging

• Peridot Robes website
• Peridot Robes Instagram
• Ragfinders deadstock fabrics

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In episode 76, Chamiah Dewey shares how she has built the UK’s first brand for short-statured (under 4’11”) people with empathy, diversity, inclusivity, and style at the forefront. Hear how she’s overcome the challenges of creating a whole new standard for fit and sizing – and the difference it has made in peoples’ lives.

Chamiah Dewey is the founder and CEO of Chamiah Dewey Fashion, the UK’s first clothing brand for short stature people, measuring under 150cm tall. She is an advocate in the disability, equality and inclusion conversation and freelance as a disability trainer and keynote speaker in the field. Chamiah began her career in the adaptive fashion industry while studying at London College of Fashion, she created and grew her brand alongside her studies, and for the past year, has been a full time director.

• Why Chamiah started a fashion brand for short-statured people when she is average height
• Why Chamiah spent a year on research before developing any designs for her brand
• How Chamiah designs for diversity and inclusion within her niche market
• Why some factories didn’t take her seriously on her first collection
• The challenges of creating a product that differs so much from the industry standards
• The power well-fitting clothes can have
• The reaction Chamiah got when she launched her brand (the UK’s first brand for people under 4’ 11”)
• The moment Chamiah is the most proud of in her business

• Chamiah Dewey Fashion website
• Chamiah Dewey Fashion Instagram

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In episode 75, Erica Sullivan Feggeler dives into how the sun-protective apparel brand idea she put together for a university business pitch competition her senior year has expanded its mission, product line, and impact. 2.5 years later, Low Ultraviolet is making waves in the UPF50 clothing market and creating a community that outshines skin cancer. 

Erica is the founder and CEO of Low Ultraviolet (L.U.V.), a safe and fashionable UPF 50+ clothing brand on a mission to educate and protect the public from skin cancer. L.U.V. was founded in December 2019, a year after Erica's mom was diagnosed with progressive cases of malignant melanoma. After experiencing her own skin cancer scares at the young age of 21, she set out to create a safe and fashionable UPF 50+ lifestyle brand.

• Why Erica is passionate about sun-protective apparel
• The gap Erica saw in the sun-protective apparel market
• How the business idea first formed
• How (and why) Erica has learned to take feedback with a grain of salt
• How customer feedback has shaped Low Ultraviolet
• Why Erica is glad she didn’t launch with her initial designs
• How Erica and her Director of Analytics, Snigdah, use their unique perspectives to make decisions that meet their goals
• Why community is important to Low Ultraviolet
• How Erica’s role in the business has changed over the years and how that has affected the business growth

• Low Ultraviolet website
• Low Ultraviolet Instagram
• Ultraviolet Tide podcast

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In episode 74, drawing from decades of running her own successful fashion and retail business and coaching other fashion product brands to do the same, Jane Hamill shares practical strategies and lessons on identifying and connecting with the ideal customers for your brand. She shares what’s working and what’s not in today’s fashion business landscape.

Jane Hamill is the founder of Fashion Brain Academy which offers online classes and coaching for apparel and accessories designers on the BUSINESS side of things. Her goal is for every designer to make a living using their creativity while becoming business savvy – even if they hate sales and cringe at the idea of a marketing plan. Jane ran a successful women’s wholesale clothing line and boutique & her work has been seen in Entrepreneur, CNN, NPR, InStyle, WWD, Lucky, etc. Her clothing line was carried in stores across the country, including Macy’s, Saks, Bloomingdale’s. After 14 years and 2 kids, she sold her wholesale and retail business and started coaching. She loves every minute of helping other entrepreneurs work on their dream businesses. You can grab Jane’s free guide, “How to Find Wholesale Fabric in Small Quantities".

• What should come first - the product or the ideal customer
• The three things that all ideal customers have in common
• How to create a buyer persona for your brand and how it will help your business
• How to attract your ideal customer and stay in contact with them
• The list-building strategy that Jane is seeing really work for brands right now
• Which marketing platform has the highest ROI
• How to turn an audience into paying customers

• Fashion Brain Academy website
• Jane’s Instagram
• Ideal buyer persona worksheet
• 5 Elements of a Great Offer podcast episode
• MNOP jewelry
• Guild Party

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In episode 73 - the second episode in our summer fashion business series - apparel business consultant and SEO expert Glynis Tao of Chase Your Dreams consulting demystifies SEO for fashion brands. She explains how SEO works, why fashion brand owners should care, and how an optimized e-commerce website helps you serve your customers better (and make more sales).

Glynis is a clothing brand owner turned Business Consultant & SEO Specialist with 20 years apparel industry experience. She helps fashion entrepreneurs and clothing brand owners launch, build and grow their fashion e-commerce business. She’s the founder of Chase Your Dreams, which is an apparel consulting agency that specializes in SEO for fashion e-commerce brands who want to increase organic traffic, rank higher in search engines and make more sales online. Glynis has expertise in technical design, product development, domestic and overseas garment manufacturing, fabric sourcing, new business development, and search engine optimization. She has been featured on the front page of the business sections of the Vancouver Sun, National Post, The Globe & Mail and has been interviewed on CBC Radio.

• The sections every fashion e-commerce website should have
• The three things that should be on the top of your website home page
• How a blog can bring traffic (and customers) to your website
• What SEO is and why fashion brand owners should care about it
• Key changes to your site that can improve your brand’s SEO
• How to balance content creation for readers versus search engines
• How to know if your SEO is working
• Why SEO is like good customer service
• When it might make sense to DIY your website’s SEO or hire a professional

• Glynis’s website
• Glynis’s Instagram
• Google Analytics
• Google Search Console

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In episode 99, Kat Williford recounts how her brand Pamut has shifted over the years to sustain her and now her team through cross-continental moves, hard times, and new family priorities. Kat puts people first, but doesn’t miss a beat on the creative or the financial aspects of her business either. Hear how her thriving business model works in this episode.

Kat is the owner and designer behind the slow fashion brand Pamut. After completing her BFA in Fashion at the Savannah College of Art and Design and working for years at a mall brand, Kat took a chance and moved to Budapest, Hungary. She rented out a little screenprinting studio and started printing tees, which they then sewed in her apartment. When she moved back to Raleigh, NC in 2016, she expanded upon the concept of custom and made-to-order clothing. Since then, Pamut (which means "cotton" in Hungarian) has grown into a successful small business. Based out of her Raleigh studio, Kat designs beautiful and timeless styles, all made from natural fibers and available in sizes XS-4XL. All Pamut pieces are cut and sewn by the Pamut team in-house.

• What Kat learned from working for both a slow fashion brand and a fast fashion mall brand early on in her career
• How her patternmaking skills have helped her offer custom sizing profitably
• Why Kat chose the made to order model for Pamut
• The things Kat values more than certifications from the fabrics she sources
• The benefits and risks of working for yourself
• How becoming a mom has allowed Kat to be more productive
• The best decision Kat has ever made in her business
• The actual amount Pamut spends on new customer acquisition

• Pamut website
• Pamut Instagram

Has listening to How Fitting helped you create a better fit in your fashion business? Episode 100 of this podcast is coming up and I’m planning a special episode featuring the most notable moments from the 104 guests I’ve had on this podcast so far – plus your story! Click here to tell me about your favorite How Fitting episode and how it has impacted you or your business.

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This week we kick of a summer mini-series diving into the business side of fashion!

In episode 72, fashion brand consultant Elizabeth Stiles shares her expertise on selling your fashion products without selling your soul. We talk about getting into a sales mindset that isn’t sleazy and practical tips on how, when, and where to sell so that you can make money doing what you love.

Elizabeth Stiles is a fashion & textiles brand consultant with 15 years experience in the retail industry working with the likes of Next, New Look, River Island & Urban Outfitters as a buyer & sales manager.

She’s incredibly passionate about helping creatives make more money in their business via online courses focused on selling & visibility.

For the past 3 years she has focused on launching & scaling independent brands including Olive & Frank, Megan Crosby and Lucy & Yak

• What Elizabeth learned about selling from her jobs in buying for a retailer and sales for a supplier
• The common fears around selling that so many independent designers have
• How to sell without being sleazy
• Why it is important to know the customer (or buyer) before selling to them
• What designers need to stop worrying about when it comes to sales
• How sales and marketing differ
• The three types of marketing platforms you need for your business
• How often you should be selling
• What to talk about when you are not selling
• How to generate interest in your products before you launch them
• How to get over the fear of showing your face on camera

• Elizabeth’s Instagram
• Elizabeth’s website
• Oversubscribed book by Daniel Priestley

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In episode 71, Patricia Luiza Blaj shares how her own relatable struggle to find clothing in her size led her to start Loud Bodies - an ethical, sustainable, and inclusive brand that offers sizes 2XS-10XL. Patricia believes that you too deserve to be happy,  to wear beautiful clothes, and to be respected and represented by brands – and the Loud Bodies clothes and business reflect that.

Patricia Luiza Blaj is the Founder of ethical, sustainable & inclusive brand Loud Bodies, Patricia is passionate about social justice, sustainability and building a business that brings value by putting people at the heart of it. She is an advocate for garment workers' rights as she believes there is no such thing as sustainability without the ethical treatment of all people involved.

• Why Patricia started Loud Bodies
• Why fashion is anything but superficial
• The values that Patricia won’t compromise on for Loud Bodies
• The unexpected pressures of moving to a more strategic and creative role as the business owner
• How Loud Bodies clothes get made
• Who is on the Loud Bodies team
• How Loud Bodies practices sustainability in the business - and what areas they want to become more sustainable in
• What goes into designing and creating clothes for an 2XS-10XL size range
• How Loud Bodies grew an international following and customer base
• How many garments Loud Bodies actually sold last year

• Loud Bodies website
• Loud Bodies Instagram
• Loud Bodies Facebook
• Loud Bodies Twitter

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In episode 70, hear how Leah Longueville grew the onesie screen printing hobby she started in her spare bedroom when her daughter was a newborn into a thriving lifestyle brand for millennial moms. Over five years later, Polished Prints now sells retail and wholesale plus has its own brick and mortar shop with multiple employees. Leah shares practical tips on how it all happened and how her mindset has shifted over the years in this episode.

Leah Longueville is the Founder + CEO of Polished Prints, a lifestyle brand dedicated to creating products that bring positivity to you, your children and your home. Polished Prints started out as a passion project - a way to bring more inclusive and intentional apparel into the lives of her and her children. With a background in graphic design, Leah would create the artwork and then screen print it by hand onto onesies in her guest bedroom. 

Today, Polished Prints has grown into a globally-recognized lifestyle brand with goods sold in retailers over the world. Our full collection of purposeful, everyday wears includes pullovers, t-shirts, and onesies, all of which are made in a sustainably-driven factory committed to protecting the environment and supporting the well-being of its makers. 

As the CEO, Leah continues to drive the creative vision of the brand and product development, while also working to grow collaborations and partnerships. Prior to Polished Prints she ran a freelance graphic design and marketing agency designed specifically for small, women-owned businesses with a story to share. 

In her free time, you can find Leah spending time with her husband and three children, exploring their new community in the metro-area of St. Louis.

• Why Leah started Polished Prints
• Where Leah sourced blanks for the brand when she first started
• How not having the pressure to make money allowed Leah to play and experiment with the products and brand of Polished Prints
• How Polished prints grew from a guest-bedroom hobby to having a warehouse space, full-time employees, and brick and mortar shop.
• Leah’s tips for making scary decisions that will grow your business 
• Why it is so important to understand your business’ finances
• How Leah started manufacturing her own styles for Polished Prints 
• What Leah did to fund her first big production order
• How Polished prints grew their wholesale orders from 4-5/yr to 6-7/day
• The differences between what sells best online versus in store for Polished Prints

• Polished Prints website
• Polished Prints Instagram
• Polished Prints email
• Leah’s LinkedIn
• To The Market ethical supply chain solutions
• Faire wholesale marketplace

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In episode 69, Crystal Cave gets real and honest about her decision to close Poppy Row - the inclusive and sustainable apparel brand she started in 2018. She shares what changed over the years in the business and in her personal life and why closing the brand is NOT failure, but growth.

Crystal Cave is a celebrity stylist turned style educator and fashion designer. She is the Founder + Creative Director of Poppy Row, a size-inclusive, eco-conscious clothing line. 

Following her employment in branding + marketing, Crystal decided to follow her dream of becoming a celebrity stylist and worked between NY and Los Angeles on the teams behind many major brands including Taylor Swift, Usher, Willem Dafoe, Kate Upton, Mercedes, Billboard Music Awards, among many others. 

After working with women across the globe, she realized there was a need in the marketplace for functional, transitional and stylish staples that were sustainably made, which lead to the creation of Poppy Row, a Los Angeles-based line of size inclusive, modular staples made from eucalyptus, carrying sizes 2-40. 

Crystal’s style advice has been seen by over 1 billion people globally. She’s the recipient of Rent the Runway's Project Entrepreneur Class of 2018 and has been seen in Elle Magazine, Essence Magazine, ABC, NBC, CBS, Bustle, The Boston Globe, Live About, Mind Body Green, Huffington Post, The Curvy Fashionista, and many more. 

• Crystal’s background before starting her apparel brand
• What Crystal’s vision and goal for Poppy Row was when she first started
• How Poppy Row and Crystal’s role in it shifted over the five years she ran the brand
• The things that made Crystal re-evaluate Poppy Row
• Why Crystal decided to close Poppy Row
• The response Crystal received when she announced the brand closing
• The importance of building a lifestyle that supports your personal goals as well as business goals
• Why it is important to define you own version or success
• What Crystal plans to do next

• Poppy Row website
• Product Visionary Instagram
• Crystal Cave LinkedIn
• Email Poppy Row
• Crystal on How Fitting podcast episode 8.

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In episode 68, Stacy Grace shares how being frustrated with the overabundance of synthetic underwear options available, she set out with her husband and co-founder Jeff to create Kent - a fully compostable, natural underwear brand. Three years after launch, Kent offers underwear and basics for women and men that are soft and breathable and you get to “plant your pants” when you are done with them.

Stacy Grace is the founder of KENT, the compostable underwear brand that’s on a mission to help save the planet, one super natural basic at a time. A Canadian living in LA, Stacy started her career in sustainable business consulting across apparel, consumer goods and entertainment in North America, UK and Europe and started KENT after being frustrated with her underwear drawer filled with scratchy, unbreathable and uncomfortable synthetics.

• The reason why Stacy wanted to start a sustainable underwear brand
• Why small and mid-sized brands are the ones driving change towards a more sustainable future
• What Stacy spent a couple years researching before launching Kent
• The benefits of natural fibers for underwear
• How Kent underwear can be home composted at end of life
• The fun story behind the brand name Kent
• The biggest lesson Stacy has learned in the three years of running Kent
• Why Stacy wanted to have control over her supply chain and materials

• Kent website
• Kent Instagram
• Kent email

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In episode 67, Emma Rubinson takes us behind the scenes of her namesake label and shares how she designs artful fashion and experiences that encourage people to be their most authentic selves. Hear her creative perspective on design and what it took to produce her recent NYFW collection.

Hailing from the planet Neptune, Emma Rubinson is a rare species of light that only travels in prime numbers. She is fascinated by the human consciousness, and the connections we form with one another. 

Emma’s work explores the human experience. Inspired by dreams, alternate realities, and psychological phenomena, she aims to empower people to embrace and express the true colors of their inner souls. She is constantly inspired by interactions with deep thinkers and big dreamers. 

Growing up near NYC, Emma thrives in a fast-paced environment full of diverse perspectives. Simultaneously, Emma’s heart lives deep in the mountains with an appreciation for solitude and disconnection from the world. Contrast plays a major part in Emma’s work as she explores dichotomies in the universe and in her own life, and pushes the boundaries of comfort seeking growth. 

Beyond fashion, Emma is a performer. Dancing and singing from a young age, she brings her collections and her audience to the stage by carefully designing the environment in which the work is experienced. Each show invites you into an alternate reality, challenging your perception of the world and inviting you to shamelessly wear your subconscious for the world to see.

• How Emma got into fashion
• Why color is a big part of her life and work
• How to develop a personal design style
• Emam’s process for concepting and creating a collection
• How Emma aims to create an experience beyond just the clothing with her work
• How Emma got the opportunity to show her collection during NYFW
• What contributed to Emma’s massive social media growth
• Why Emma shares tips and resources for other designers on social media
• Why Emma does not want her own brand to be her full-time job

• Emma Rubinson website
• Emma Rubinson Instagram
• Emma Rubinson TikTok
• Emma’s email

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In episode 66, hear how Lizzie Gordon started a fashion brand making sports bras for bigger boobs after years of thinking “some bigger brand will be the one to make this”. Personally understanding the challenges women face trying to find sports bras in larger cup sizes, Lizzie set out to solve those challenges and she shares what she’s learned about being a business owner in the fashion industry in this episode.

Lizzie  started working on B.X.M in 2020, with absolutely zero experience in both running a business and fashion/manufacturing. Meaning she had a  steep learning curve/crash course in how to build a sustainable fuller bust sportswear brand. 

She is originally from Scotland, just outside Glasgow, and moved down to London in 2013 to start an internship at a small design agency. Lizzie now lives in South East London with her partner and their dog Murdo.

Life outside of B.X.M is relatively quiet, Lizzie  sings in a choir every week and they do some performances every few months. Apart from that, she dabbles in a bit of weightlifting in the gym and has recently got into cold water swimming in the local lake. 

• The assumption that stopped Lizzie from starting her brand sooner
• The research Lizzie did to test her concept and find innovative solutions
• The must-have features Lizzie designed B.X.M. bras to include
• The biggest business lessons Lizzie has learned since starting her brand
• The four values that B.X.M. is built on
• Ways B.X.M. is sustainable and ethical - and areas Lizzie is looking to improve sustainability efforts
• Why Lizzie has no plans to expand beyond a larger cup size focus
• How Lizzie dealt with imposter syndrome when starting a business with zero experience
• What Lizzie did to get B.X.M. bras featured in multiple publications

• B.X.M. website
• B.X.M. Instagram
• B.X.M. Facebook
• London College of Fashion

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In episode 65, Kahindo Mateene shares the inspiration, ethics, and inside entrepreneurial journey of her namesake label Kahindo. With a focus on African textiles, her business is built to empower the women who wear her clothes and the women who make them. 

KAHINDO is a New York based ethical fashion brand that is inspired by our founder’s Congolese heritage and African upbringing and ethically Made in Africa using fair trade practices. KAHINDO is a celebration of the legacy and natural beauty of Africa. Our one-of-a-kind prints and dynamic color palettes are an ode to the continent’s rich culture and heritage and offer a fresh reinterpretation of traditional African fashion. Each piece is a wearable luxury that allows today’s adventurous woman to express her individuality in her own unique style.

At KAHINDO we believe that making conscious, responsible decisions today will create a better future for everyone. In fashion, sustainability is about much more than fabrics and material sourcing—it also extends to the people who create products and the fairness of the practices that surround their work. As part of our commitment to ethics and sustainability, we exclusively use ethically sourced materials and are devoted to fair-trade production practices. In addition, we are actively working to meet the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals, which include gender equality, climate action, access to quality education, and elimination of poverty.

• Why Kahindo went back to fashion school and started a brand
• How Kahindo brings inspiration from African fashion into her collections
• The importance of print and color in Kahindo’s design process
• Kahindo’s tips for trying out more print and color in your wardrobe if you’re not usually a print person
• How Kahindo got her line into Rent The Runway and Nully and why they passed on the first collection she showed them
• Why Kahindo moved all her production to her hometown in the DR of Congo and Kenya 
• How even small brands can have a big impact
• How Kahindo turned a defeating elimination from Project Runway into motivation to get her brand to where it is today
• The effect having another full-time job versus being full-time with her brand has had on her business

• Kahindo website
• Kahindo Instagram
• Kahindo email
• Kahindo’s LinkedIn

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In episode 64, Amanda shares how she started a sustainable fashion brand, Nicole & Rose, with the goal of making all women feel worthy, powerful, and included. From starting with just a dream of working in fashion to now running her own brand, Amanda’s journey is relatable and affirming.

Amanda has loved fashion for as long as she can remember and has always dreamed of starting her own clothing brand. For so long this dream felt like it could not be a reality, and so she followed a more traditional career path… but in the back of her mind (and heart)she was always hoping this dream may someday, somehow come true.

In the meantime Amanda picked up other hobbies, sewing being one of them! At first the idea of sewing her own clothes felt intimidating, but she bought a sewing machine, watched a ton of YouTube videos and realized right away it was something she really enjoyed!

Sewing gave Amanda a greater appreciation for clothes and really opened her eyes to how much time and effort can go into making clothing. It made her start to really question the fast fashion industry and how clothing was being made at such a quick (and cheap) rate. Amanda dug deeper and discovered more and more about the harmful effects fast fashion has on humans, animals and the environment. 

As she continued to learn more about sustainability, Amanda discovered some really amazing slow fashion brands. She loved their approach to creating ethical, sustainable and timeless clothing that is made to last; the opposite of fast fashion. Amanda started to realize her childhood dream of creating a clothing brand might align with her values by starting a slow fashion brand - and so she took the leap! 

With Nicole & Rose Amanda not only wanted to create a brand that values sustainability and ethical practices, but also makes others feel worthy, deserving and enough exactly as they are.

Nicole & Rose is a size inclusive slow fashion brand focused on empowering women to be their most authentic, beautiful and worthy selves. They aim to create timeless & effortless clothing that you will not only feel amazing in but also feel amazing about as it’s made with other humans, animals and the environment in mind.

Nicole & Rose collections are made up of versatile pieces that can be effortlessly worn together as a set or easily paired with items from your own wardrobe. Each piece has been thoughtfully created with comfort, ease and versatility in mind and the timeless design allows for them to be worn for many years to come. Each piece is ethically made in Calgary, Canada in small batches.

• What sparked her love of fashion from a young age
• The journey that led Amanda to start a fashion brand
• Why Amanda was intimidated to learn to sew 
• How Amanda’s perspective on fashion changed once she did learn to sew
• The steps Amanda took to start her brand even before she felt like she was ready
• Amanda’s journey with self-worth and how that shaped the mission of Nicole & Rose
• Why launching a brand with inclusive sizing is more attainable than you might think
• The power of good fit
• How Amanda found the perfect factory for her brand (on the first try!)

• Nicole & Rose website
• Nicole & Rose Instagram
• Factory45 founder Shannon Lohr on How Fitting #60
• Color Alchemist Studio

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In episode 63, Tigist Ketema recalls the demoralizing fitting room experiences trying to find workwear that fit her curvy, petite frame and shares how she felt called to solve that for herself and other women by creating something that didn’t exist before: a luxury workwear brand designed and made just for petite women. 

Tigist Ketema is the founder and designer behind Tigist Petites, the luxurious new designer ready-to-wear label for women under 5' 4". The eponymous brand is a true labor of love for its founder, Tigist Ketema, who has long struggled to dress her own 5' 1" hourglass figure. "I was continually frustrated by the lack of well-made, well-tailored silhouettes available in my size, particularly when it came to shopping for workwear. Every woman wants and deserves to feel strong, feminine and sophisticated in her own skin," says Ketema, "I'm committed to being the brand that provides petite women that outlet of expression." Tigist spent more than two years perfecting her first three dress styles (MSRP: $835 to $855) for Tigist Petites, each of which is available in three colorways; black, navy, and grey pinstripe. All designs by Tigist Petites are manufactured in New York and are available for purchase at TigistPetites.com.

• The challenges of finding workwear as a petite, curvy women
• How fruitless shopping trips really affects your mindset 
• Why Tigist felt a calling to start a petite brand
• How Tigist balances trusting her gut with trusting industry experts
• Why Tigist started over on sampling after seeing the final sales samples
• Tips for being your own fit model
• Why Tigist decided to produce her line in NY
• How sometimes done is better than perfect

• Tigist Petites website
• Tigist Petites Instagram
• For press inquiries, email

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In episode 98, hear how Vktori founder Keona Moy is challenging societal norms as well as her own self-limiting beliefs as she grows her braless, bandless, neuro-inclusive clothing brand. Women are told so many shaming messages about how they should dress their boobs, but Vktori is setting a new example of embracing comfort on your own terms.

Keona Moy, with her 13-year healthcare background, founded VKTORI in response to the discomfort of traditional bras and the stigma of going braless. Her firsthand experience with sensory sensitivities at work fueled the creation of VKTORI, a revolutionary women’s wear brand. VKTORI's no-nip tee features a patent-pending and sensory-friendly construction which ensures comfort for all. VKTORI is at the intersection of fashion, wellness, and functionality, which allows women to be comfortable on their terms. 

• How entrepreneurship has forced Keona to confront her devils
• The societal pressures of dressing as a woman and how Vktori removes those pressures
• The problem Keona started out to solve and how that evolved
• How Keona has funded Vktori’s launch and growth
• How Vktori’s messaging has changed based on customer feedback
• How to decide what feedback to pay attention to and what is just a distraction
• How Keona found the team and advisory board members who are excited about Vktori’s mission
• How Keona’s perspective on her role as CEO has changed over the years

• Vktori website
• Vktori Instagram
• Keona's LinkedIn
• Join the waitlist for the new NahBra Tee

Has listening to How Fitting helped you create a better fit in your fashion business? Episode 100 of this podcast is coming up and I’m planning a special episode featuring the most notable moments from the 104 guests I’ve had on this podcast so far – plus your story! Click here to tell me about your favorite How Fitting episode and how it has impacted you or your business.

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In episode 62, hear how Bianca Bellantoni has built her sustainable fashion brand, Bellantoni, to be kind to animals and the planet  - and how she’s grown as a designer and business owner in the process.

Bianca Bellantoni is a Canadian designer and the founder behind the sustainable and cruelty-free clothing brand, BELLANTONI, which she started in 2017. She has her Bachelors of Design from Toronto Metropolitan University and completed her studies with a focus on zero waste sustainable fashion. Her passion to become a sustainable fashion advocate started in 2012 when she learnt about the devastating effects the fashion industry as a whole was having on the environment, on animals and on the people who work within the supply chains. She knew she had to be part of the change, which led her to start her own sustainable fashion brand from the ground up. Since starting her brand, she has been a top 10 semi-finalist for the Canadian Sustainable Fashion Awards 2018, has spoken to students at universities and has been featured in OMNI News, Alternatives Journal, CBC and the Georgia Straight. 

The mission behind BELLANTONI is to help people dress well while being kind to animals, people and the planet, and they do so by using certified sustainable and recycled textiles, manufacturing locally in Vancouver and planting one tree with TreeEra for every clothing piece sold. Each piece is thoughtfully designed to easily transition into anyone’s wardrobe and often has an element of modularity to it, which gives their customers multiple ways to wear their pieces. 

BELLANTONI also takes responsibility for their textile waste through their Re•Nu Project, a zero waste initiative that aims to (Re)define the new (Nu) by giving new life to textile waste. They use leftover deadstock and scraps from their own production and from the fashion industry to create zero waste products such as their scrunchies, masks, Re•Nu Gift Wrap, and more. They also recycle all of their small fabric scraps with the local textile recycling company, Fabcycle.

• The things about the fashion industry that almost made Bianca stop studying fashion design
• How Bianca got involved in the sustainable fashion community
• What Bianca learned about fashion entrepreneurship from her job at a vegan outerwear startup
• How Bellantoni incorporates its values of being kind to animals and the planet
• The limitations and creative opportunities as a sustainable brand
• How Bianca organizes her business and timeline for both wholesale and retail orders
• What a day in the life for Bianca looks like
• How to be creative while designing more commercial, basic products

• Bellantoni website
• Bellantoni email
• Bellantoni Instagram
• Bianca’s LinkedIn

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In episode 61, longtime friends and Co-Founders Danny Burke and Brandon Winslow talk about how they dream big and work to achieve it. They share the story of their 7-years-in-the-making luxury streetwear brand MADE FOR ALL, the wins and challenges of running a brand, and what they’ve learned about entrepreneurship and each other along the way. 

MADE FOR ALL Co-Founder and Head of Strategy Danny Burke is a proud, disabled United States Army veteran and gay, black professional with a passion for building meaningful, disruptive businesses. Danny holds a MBA in Organizational Behavior and Marketing Management from Claremont Graduate University and a BA in Organizational Behavior Studies from Pitzer College. Danny serves as Board Chair for the globally reaching gaming media non-profit Qweerty Gamers, which advocates for underrepresented communities in game development and game media. Danny Burke has been recognized by the California House of Representatives for his community organizing and the California State Assembly for his mental health advocacy. He also has a proud track record of advocacy work in support of local HIV-service organizations and queer resource centers. 

Before co-founding MADE FOR ALL, Head of Operations Brandon Winslow built a successful career spanning the sports, entertainment, and real estate industries. As a visionary impresario of lifestyle and culture, Brandon is the founder of The Redline Group, a lifestyle agency that maximizes relationships, visibility, reachability, and manageability of luxury real estate brokerage and investments as a licensed agent with the agency. Brandon previously served as Director of Brand Management and Business Development at Roc Nation, the full-service entertainment company, providing inclusive artist and athlete management, label, publishing, touring, film and tv, and new ventures owned by Jay-Z.

MADE FOR ALL is a luxury streetwear brand designed and manufactured in the heart of the Los Angeles Fashion District. Founded in 2015 by Brandon Winslow and Danny Burke, MADE FOR ALL was born out of a shared love of minimalist style, luxury design and quality craftsmanship. More than just a brand, MADE FOR ALL is a ‘members only’ club for hardworking, dedicated dreamers committed to achieving their goals.

• Why Danny and Bradon decided to start a luxury streetwear brand
• Why it took 7 years to finally launch the brand
• How Danny and Brandon divide responsibilities and support each other as co-founders
• Tips for talking about technical information with creative-minded people
• The lessons they learned launching and marketing their first collection
• What the name MADE FOR ALL means
• Why Danny and Brandon think of their brand as a club and call their customers “members”
• How Danny and Brandon stay motivated to achieve their goals
• The surprising part of entrepreneurship that Danny and Brandon didn’t expect
• Why negotiation is a necessary skill for entrepreneurs
• How Danny and Brandon communicate new designs to their seamstress and factory

• MADE FOR ALL  website
• Danny’s email
• Danny’s Instagram 
• Brandon’s Instagram 
• MADE FOR ALL Instagram
• MADE FOR ALL LinkedIn

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In episode 60, sustainable fashion business school founder & CEO Shannon Lohr shares insights, practical tips, and marketing and mindset wisdom for starting a sustainable fashion brand based on her years of experience coaching successful fashion entrepreneurs through her Factory45 program.

As the Founder & CEO of Factory45, Shannon Lohr works with idea-stage entrepreneurs to launch fashion brands that are sustainably and ethically made. 

Shannon got her start in 2010 when she co-founded {r}evolution apparel, a sustainable clothing company for female travelers and minimalists that was featured in The New York Times, Forbes.com and Yahoo! News. 

Through her online business school, Factory45, Shannon has worked with over 500 entrepreneurs in the sustainable fashion space, many of whom have gone on to launch some of the most transparent supply chains in the fashion industry. 

Shannon has worked as a consultant for crowdfunding projects that have surpassed their goal amounts by as much as 300%, and has worked closely with startup apparel companies from all over the world to create ethically-made products with a focus on environmentally-friendly materials. 

Shannon is a strong advocate for increasing supply chain transparency through sourcing, localization and storytelling. She’s been named a thought leader for the future of fashion and was nominated as a "Woman of Note" by the Wall Street Journal.

• Why Shannon started Factory45 after seeing first hand the challenges of starting her own brand
• What things new fashion entrepreneurs worry about that actually aren’t that important - and what to focus on instead
• How to launch a minimum viable product to test your concept without sacrificing building a long-term business foundation
• How to communicate your brand’s sustainability efforts in a way that won’t come across as greenwashing
• How to work through the vulnerability of putting your designs out into the world
• How to set your brand’s goals and values
• The value of knowing your brand’s “why”
• The two things in Shannon’s experience that distinguish successful fashion brands from the unsuccessful ones
• How long it takes to launch a fashion brand
• How Factory45 supports your sustainable fashion brand launch and beyond

• Factory45  website
• Shannon’s email
• Factory45 Instagram
• Factory45 LinkedIn
• Factory45 one-page business plan template
• How to Start A Sustainable Fashion Brand podcast
• Vetta - Factory45 alum
• Loti - Factory45 alum
• Poppy Row - Factory45 alum - on the How Fitting podcast

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In episode 59, Natalia Pavanelli brings us into her poetic exploration of the whimsy of little moments through her romantic, cottagecore brand Wandwoods. Her storytelling, industry experience, and purpose weave a captivating tale in this episode about chasing dreams and the realities of fashion entrepreneurship.

“I am a Brazillian-Canadian fashion designer with a passion for prints, beauty and old-times-everything. As a child I would move around the world with my parents, collecting new stories, cultures and languages from the old world. As an adult, I continued to live abroad, and worked in France, Brazil and finally, moving to Canada at 27. My favourite thing is to express beauty creating shapes and graphics that make you dream of a simpler world, full of magic and poetry. My ultimate life goal is to help people feel like their true-whimsical-self, bringing joy into their lives and creating beauty.”

“After 11 years working in the Fashion Industry, in several fields, I decided to launch my own identity through this brand, creating prairie-like fashion with a pinch of "whimsy". The sustainability factor was crucial for me, as I used to be a terrible fast-fashion shopper. I wanted to contribute to the slow-fashion movement, with my fantasy language. Wandwoods is almost 1 year old and heading into its 3rd collection drop.”

• What the cottagecore aesthetic and mindset is
• How Natalia creates a compelling story through her brand and collection
• How Natalia found her community
• Why launching her own brand was so much more vulnerable than designing collections for her industry job
• The mistakes Natalia thought her 12 years of industry experience would help her avoid, but didn’t
• When to stay grounded and when to be open-minded with what you want
• What parts of Wandwoods Natalia does herself versus hires contractors, consultants, and experts to do

• Wandwoods website
• Wandwoods email
• Wandwoods Instagram
• Natalia’s LinkedIn
• A Quiet Wild - photographer/content creator
• Factory45 sustainable fashion brand accelerator

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In episode 58, master clothing craftsman Keti McKenna tells the story of her fashion career from recently-immigrated geophysicist in NYC in the 1990s, to seamstress, to patternmaker at designer brands, and finally founder of her own high-end suiting brand Ketivani.

Keti's original career was as a geophysicist, but she always had a love of fashion and sewing since she was a little girl growing up in Tbilisi, Georgia. She immigrated to New York City in the early 90's and soon began selling her designs to local boutiques in the Forest Hills neighborhood of the city. At the same time, she completed her Patternmaking degree at New York’s Fashion Institute of Technology. She worked as a patternmaker, fit model, designer and technical design manager for a wide range of companies including Federated, Tommy Hilfiger, Anne Klein, Tahari, Adrianna Papell and Joe Fresh. She frequently traveled to overseas factories to train representatives in craftsmanship and garment construction, as well as to troubleshoot production problems. 

She moved to Denver, Colorado with her husband in summer of 2015 for a change of pace and to enjoy what Colorado has to offer. In Denver, she established her own business: Ketivani. She designs and produces upscale clothing for specialty stores and offers classes in sketching, draping and patternmaking at Denver Design Incubator (DDI). 

Keti is considered one of the industry’s unique talents. Not only can she draw beautiful and sophisticated fashion sketches, but she also brings a wealth of technical construction knowledge and industry expertise to transform such illustrations to finished products. 

• How Keti got her first job in the industry in NYC in the early 1990s
• Why Keti decided to get a patternmaking degree at FIT
• Why many designer fashion brands thought hand-drafted paper patterns were better quality than digital patterns for many years
• The importance of a good patternmaker
• Why designers sometimes have to approve less-than-perfect fit or quality
• What to look for in a high-quality suit
• Why Keti intentionally keeps her brand small
• The challenges of making high-end products as a small brand
• How Keti got the opportunity to show her work and process as part of an exhibit at the Denver Art Museum and what that did for her business

• Ketivani website
• Keti’s email
• Ketivani Instagram
• Ketivani Facebook
• Keti’s LinkedIn
• Denver Design Incubator

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In episode 57, the owner of Canadian slow fashion brand Betty x Bow, Allison Kittle, shares how she combines comfort, versatility, and feminine flair to create thoughtful, elevated basics. Her pieces do it all, and so does she - Allison balances a full-time nursing career with operating Betty x Bow. 

“My name is Allison Kittle, I am the owner and operator of Betty x Bow (pronounced Betty and Bow) a slow-fashion womenswear brand based out of Ottawa, Ontario Canada. We create timeless, effortless, classic silhouettes with a feminine flair that help women build a conscious capsule wardrobe. I was born and raised in the west end part of the city of Ottawa and still live in the area today. I have always had a passion for fashion for as long as I can remember. But my career did not start as a fashion entrepreneur but in healthcare, which I continue to work in both industries today. For the past 11 years I have worked as a NICU (neonatal intensive care) nurse. I have always felt fulfilled caring for others but as I got more invested into my nursing career I had this pull to also pursue my creative passion for fashion and chase this dream for myself. As a nurse you have to be thoughtful and purposeful in your actions and these qualities have transferred into my brand. There is intentionality with everything that is Betty x Bow.” 

• Why Allison decided to start a fashion brand after almost a decade of nursing
• The style and values that focuses the Betty x Bow collection
• What Allison looks for in the perfect fabric
• The thoughtful design process Allison uses to create Betty x Bow pieces
• Some of the function details that add feminine flair to the Betty x Bow collection
• How Allison got connected to her factory and technical designer
• Why she chose to produce her garments locally in Canada
• How Allison got over imposter syndrome when starting a business in an industry she had no formal training in
• Why there are transferable skills in any industry
• How Allison balances a full-time nursing job with running Betty x Bow
• The pressure to always be working as an entrepreneur

• Betty x Bow website
• Allison’s email
• Betty x Bow Instagram
• Betty x Bow on Pinterest
• Betty x Bow Tiktok

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In episode 56, Anna Dougherty shares her story of belonging as she developed - and recently launched - her NYC-locally made wool outerwear collection - Anna Gray Collection. Hear how her background in outerwear wholesale and the street she grew up on as a child came together in her launch collection.

Anna Dougherty is a New York City based designer who founded Anna Gray Collection, a women's outerwear brand for those looking to add a little merriment, joie de vivre, and color to their lives. Anna Gray Collection pieces are ethically made in NYC. 

Anna had a wide range of experience prior to launching her brand. She majored in fashion design at Meredith College, and worked in the retail and commercial real estate industries before moving to NYC. Once in NYC, she worked for a knitwear and outerwear company learning the ins and outs of the fashion industry. After losing her job due to the Covid-19 lockdowns, Anna decided to take the leap, hire herself, and launch her brand. 

• Why Anna decided to start her brand
• The things Anna learned in her wholesale sales job that are invaluable 
• Why she chose outerwear as the focus of her brand
• How Anna sources her materials
• What her creative process looks like 
• Why Anna chose to manufacture in NYC
• How Anna found her factory
• The benefits of being part of a brand accelerator program
• How Anna overcame the fear of being vulnerable and putting her designs out there

• Anna Gray Collection website
• Anna’s email
• Anna Gray Collection Instagram
• Anna’s LinkedIn
• Factory45 - sustainable fashion brand accelerator program
• Alison's Instagram Live with Shannon from Factory45

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In episode 55, Laura Fisher of Revivall Clothing encourages us to slow down and get in touch with our values, our clothes, and the land around us. She shares the windy path (including a degree in Animal Science) that led her to start Revivall in 2009 and how she’s built the brand to “revive all clothing and materials”.

From Laura: “I am inspired by the women of the Wild West and the bygone era of durable clothes, warranties, and American manufacturing. I believe we can do fashion better...better for the planet...better for the people making the clothes and better for us. My passion is up-cycling and using dead stock fabrics and materials to reduce our impact on our planet. Everything is made with love and intention in Montana and Oregon.”

“My mission is to create well made, flattering, and wearable styles that will become staples of your wardrobe. These treasures are meant to be part of your story, part of your memories, part of your life. I care about you and am honored to be part of your story. We are a team. We are a community. We are part of a RevivALL and it's truly a blessing that we've found each other.”

“I believe in a higher power and that the Divine works through me. I am part of the creative process, but I don't take credit for anything that is created.”

• How Laura found the group of women who are the ideal customers for Revivall
• How Revivall clothing encourages a slower way of life
• How Laura has built a business and life that aligns with her personal values
• Why there’s more to confidence than beauty
• How strength and femininity can coincide in clothing
• The challenges and creative serendipity of working with deadstock and reused materials
• Who is on Laura’s team and how she met her seamstresses
• Why Laura’s love of sewing held her business back for years
• What a week in Laura’s life looks like
• The benefits of letting your creativity lead

• Revivall website
• Laura’s email
• Revivall Instagram

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In episode 54, Dana Todd, the founder of custom-made fashion marketplace Balodana, shares how she started the business after a successful career as CMO and tech start-up founder. Dana talks about how tech-based, made-to-measure, on-demand clothing is the bright future of apparel manufacturing and our closets. 

Dana Todd is a 3-time founder, recovering CMO, and digital innovation pioneer with 20+ years making digital experiences for humans, including a patent for SEO technology. In 2019 she launched Balodana, the first multi-brand marketplace that is exclusively women's made-to-measure clothing. Balodana brings the skills of independent tailors and designers worldwide to US consumers who want to nail the art of the first impression. Women feel transformed, confident and beautiful in custom made clothing - it affects them on an emotional level like no other clothing purchase.

Dana became obsessed with custom clothing first as a means of delivering body fit and unique style, and then as a means to reduce wasteful garment production worldwide by scaling on-demand manufacturing. She is committed to accelerating innovation and collaboration in the fashion and garment production industry. She is a frequent speaker at global digital events and on fashion tech panels.

Balodana is the only clothing marketplace that inspires and perfectly fits women who want to master the art of the first impression. They represent designers and tailors worldwide who specialize in women’s made-to-measure clothing. Online shoppers choose from hundreds of custom style patterns, from underwear to evening wear, in all price ranges and categories. In an era in which consumers expect personalized experiences, tailor-made clothing is not only personal but the most sustainable way to buy new garments today.

• Why Dana founded a fashion start-up after a career in marketing and technology
• What Dana learned from the research she did before starting Balodana
• How knowing your measurements gives you power over your wardrobe
• How Balodana merges fashion and technology to create a new business and manufacturing model
• The common misconceptions about made-to-measure clothing
• How made-to-measure designers can offer their styles through Balodana’s marketplace
• The custom-made customer experience of Balodana
• The projects Balodana is working on to standardize production to allow for custom fit and creativity
• The fashion tech Dana’s most excited about right now 

• Balodana website
• Dana’s email
• Balodana Instagram
• Dana’s LinkedIn
• 3DLook - virtual fitting room technology
• TrueToForm - digital avatars from a smartphone body scan
• Pleneri - digital industry infrastructure

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You’ve heard of fashion made with recycled polyester, but have you heard of fashion made with recycled flowers? In episode 53, Melissa Hargus Pierce gives us a glimpse into the creative and scientific natural dyeing process of Soul Studio - the sustainable, slow fashion brand she started with her mom. 

Soul Studio is a Natural Dye House and Slow Fashion Label founded by Melissa Hargus Pierce and her mother Carol Hargus. They are known best for their ethereal and feminine silk fabrics created using plant based dyes and floral waste (Fashion Made from Flowers.) All wearable/functional art pieces are created using sustainable and ethical practices by their small team of women in Austin, TX. 

• Why Melissa and her mom began Soul Studio
• How Melissa advocates for self-expression
• Why Soul Studio uses only botanical dyes
• The science and creativity of natural dyeing
• Where Soul Studio sources their flowers
• Melissa’s favorite flowers for dyeing
• How Soul Studio encourages their customers to slow down and appreciate the details
• The three values that Soul Studio is built on
• How Soul Studio found and connects with its audience
• Melissa’s tips for running a business with a family member
• Why hosting dyeing workshops and classes have been so fun and successful for Soul Studio

• Soul Studio website
• Soul Studio email
• Soul Studio Instagram
• Soul Studio LinkedIn
• Soul Studio email list

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In episode 97, Patternier founder and designer Heather Rose Rauscher gives us a tour of the intricate layers of her innovative artwork and business. Working in the industry for over a decade, she’s learned the rules of textile design. Now, with her own brand, she breaks them. Her luxury fashion and home pieces juxtapose vintage with new and minimal with maximal to create a deeply creative story.

Patternier, the brainchild of Master Textile Designer, Heather Rose Rauscher, is a unique Art, Fashion, and Home company rooted in Textile Design. With a deep passion for vintage fabrics, which showcase design culture, Heather reimagines these pieces through her own lens. Using vintage quilts as the backdrop for her designs, she then hand-paints original patterns over the quilts to create a new textile design- and an original work of art. The new textile is then used to create unique home and fashion stylings.

Pushing it one step further- all fashion pieces are created from vintage silhouettes which Heather sources herself. Using motifs that would not normally be put together, such as, a chinoiserie Jacobean on an Americana Patchwork, Heather somehow makes it work in a sophisticated and inventive way. Any item from Patternier is meant to stand alone as a work of art, not just a luxury good.

Made 100% in New York- from the design and printing to the cut and sew, and quilting, keeping it local and sustainable is at the forefront of Patternier’s mission. Heather’s 10+ year’s in the textile industry ensures that all fabrics of rich cotton, silk, and linen are of the finest quality to match the craftsmanship of the collections.

• What Heather prioritizes in designing her fabrics, textile prints, and products
• Why it is important to work for other companies before starting your own brand
• How Heather knew it was the right time to start her own business
• The innovative technique Heather uses to create the Patternier prints
• How each print translates into fashion and home products
• How Heather found her seamstresses
• The drop schedule Patternier uses to maximize the newness of each print
• How Heather gets more eyes on the Patternier brand

• Patternier website
• Patternier Instagram
• Heather’s Instagram

Has listening to How Fitting helped you create a better fit in your fashion business? Episode 100 of this podcast is coming up and I’m planning a special episode featuring the most notable moments from the 104 guests I’ve had on this podcast so far – plus your story! Click here to tell me about your favorite How Fitting episode and how it has impacted you or your business.

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In episode 52, discover how Claire Thomas-Morgan weaves exploration and imagination into her high-end childrenswear line Vivi Design Studio and how her business has grown into its unique identity over the years.

Claire Thomas-Morgan started out in fashion in the early 2000s, earning her BFA in fashion design from Washington University in St. Louis and MFA in fashion merchandising from Academy of Art University in San Francisco. Thomas-Morgan has worked as a women’s wear designer and buyer, visual merchandiser for J.Crew, and currently has her own children’s wear line, Vivi Design Studio. 

Vivi was launched as an homage to Thomas-Morgan’s grandmother, Vivian, who taught her all about living life not only fashionably but fully. Thomas-Morgan aims to elevate children’s wear to a realm of thought-provoking, creatively classic, and everlasting design, while fostering discovery, acceptance, and expression of self. Her goals are to open children’s fashion to a more emotionally connected, intelligent, and artistic environment that allows healthy self exploration and expression.

• Why Claire started a children’s line
• The skills Claire has used the most from the graphic design and photography major she started and the fashion design and merchandising masters she ended up getting
• The role of fashion in growing up and self-discovery
• How Claire weaves imagination and exploration into Vivi Design Studio collections
• The power of storytelling for Vivi Design Studio
• Why Claire started offering adult clothing in her children’s line
• How Claire approaches designing and fitting growing kids
• What Claire does to prepare for an impactful runway show
• How Vivi Design Studio settled into its specialty childrenswear niche
• Why the balance between creativity and commerciality hasn’t really been an issue for Vivi Design Studio

• Vivi Design Studio website
• Vivi Design Studio email
• Vivi Design Studio Instagram
• Claire’s LinkedIn
• Washington University in Saint Louis Fashion Design program
• Omaha Fashion Week

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