by Mitchelle Uzorka
There is always More to add and do when it comes to the Fashion world. Let’s Talk about How the Fashion space is doing in Rivers State, starting with the Fashion Designers out there.
In our Opinion on how Fashion can be Bigger & Better in Rivers State, Designers should;
• Explore their Creativity;
Creativity is an important part of problem solving and development. Actively seek inspiration Much like creativity, inspiration doesn’t always come as easily as we would like it to. If inspiration doesn’t find you immediately, don’t give up. Instead of staring at a blank screen for the entire day, take the time to invest in research and find different elements that will inspire you for the project you are working on. “Pull from varying sources of inspiration such as artwork, literature, nature…you never know what will spark your interest and motivate you to create something amazing”.
• Not be afraid of Mistakes;
Sometimes, actually starting your design is the scariest step to take—and this is because you’re fearful of making a mistake. However, “it’s through mistakes that you actually can grow. You have to get bad in order to get good.” Also Remember to stay Curious.
• Organise more Fashion Events;
A Fashion show should not be taken for granted. The Organisation of few more Fashion events should be Looked into Rivers State because Fashion shows and Exhibitions can be used to improve the skeletal framwork in Fashion not just in Rivers State but in Nigeria at Large.
• Check your Finishing Process;
Most importantly, Fashion designers Should be more intentional with their finishings. A mind blowing design in a fine material and then a Bad Finishing spoils the Entire work. A work with good finishing will be far-fetched from complains and this is determined from the start of the work.
• Maintain good Relationships;
It ‘s really important to meet people and build healthy relationships. Building relationships can mean establishing good communication lines between your company and the public.
Here are 4 ways why building relationships are important to fashion brands.
It Helps you achieve your goals;
Every company no matter how young the business is has company goals and objectives. By building good relationship with your publics for instance your employees, you are more likely to achieve your desired goal as they are able to work hard and bring on board their best ways which becomes beneficial to your business. You must work in harmony with everyone including the community within which you operate, that way they there is goodwill which is transferred onto the work and its growth.
It Helps you reach the right target
As a fashion designer, your target markets are usually those who are interested in buying and wearing your clothes. In order to reach such people, you need to communicate effectively using the right channels to reach them. With good relationship with editors, bloggers, journalists, marketers etc you are able to create strategic visibility for your brand using the right channels thereby reaching your targeted market.
It Puts you in a strong position when customers are making buying decision
In an age where social media is king, word of mouth is key. The kind of relationship you have with your customers influence what they say about you. Good relationships, loyalty and referrals are the order of the day. Many people buy products because of what they have heard about it. With that achieved, work at building a strong relationship with them such that they become loyal to the brand and then end up referring their friends to purchase as well.
Easier access to funding
For startups looking to attract investors and some funding for their young fashion businesses, having a good relationship with stakeholders opens up opportunities for growth. With clarity on the company’s vision statement and mission, investors become confident of your business and possibly will want to invest in them.
The important thing to remember is that the earlier you build good relationships with the right publics for your brand, the better your chances at positioning your brand for opportunities that will further leap the fortunes of your company.
Through a mix of effective communications, good customer service and appreciation, feedback mechanisms and proactive engagements, you’ll be well on your way to being able to accomplish more as a strong fashion brand
Lastly, In the field of art and Fashion, designers do not get as much accolades as he/she deserves. A fashion designer should be appreciated for he/her work and what it represents.
