Student Style Stars:
Tips for Starting Your Own Clothing Line an article by Annie Robinson Whether you’re a bona fide fashionista or a student with a keen entrepreneurial spirit, if you’ve ever dreamed of starting your own line, now is the time to go for it. The power of digital media means it has never been easier to launch a line and share it with the world. Will there be learning curves along the way? Of course! But, the best way to learn is by starting your own business and chasing after your dreams. Here on the Queen’s campus, creativity runs rampant throughout our student body. One student who has made a lasting impact on the realms of fashion and entrepreneurialism is former MUSE Fashion Editor Rachel Wong of Shop Spenny. Starting in 2014, Rachel launched her line in her fourth year as a way to raise funds for Vogue Charity Fashion Show and since graduating, Shop Spenny has continued to prosper. Rachel’s signature vintage flannels printed with sassy sayings may have been what ignited the success of her boutique’s business, but she hasn’t stopped there. Rachel now has an inventory of trendy pom-pom clad hats, lace-up sweatshirts, tees, and vintage crop tops. After graduation, Rachel worked in social media at a non-profit, recently leaving to pursue Shop Spenny and her YouTube channel full time. One major aspect of Rachel’s undergraduate experience that she credits as instrumental for the success of her own line was her involvement with extra-curricular activities on campus. Getting involved may sound cliché, but, according to Rachel, “Taking advantage of opportunities in university that can help you strengthen your craft is absolutely invaluable. I also met a ton of like-minded, super creative people that I wouldn’t have if I didn’t join these clubs!” Speaking of fellow like-minded creatives, Rachel credits t-shirt designer Nicolette Kabitsis of BeKay Designs as one of her favourite up-andcomers in the Queen’s fashion community. Nicolette says she spent nearly three years contemplating whether or not she would start her line due to nerves, plagued by fears of “what if no one likes it?” But, after deciding to “just go for it,” she says she has never been happier. Rachel also echoed Nicolette’s sentiments about the incentive behind starting a line, believing that when you can’t find the perfect opportunity the best thing to do is simply make it yourself! According to Rachel, “there are so many ways to express your creativity, especially in the digital sphere.” Don’t be afraid of new ideas and ask for advice when you need it. “Even a quick cup of coffee with a fellow fashion lover can inspire a new venture!”
21 | FASHION
So, Queen’s students, if you have a passion for fashion and a mind for business, there is no reason not to put your dreams in motion. It’s time to find your muse and let your vision take flight!
