I believe that Fashion Week S/S10 was pivot point for fashion brands and retailers to start embracing new forms of marketing and technology. The events that occurred were numerous; live tweeting and streaming Inside The Tents, FashionCamp (Barcamp for fashion industry professionals), the Independendent Fashion Bloggers dress up soiree and even the LadyLux/Stylemom/GlamourCow launch party have all contributed to the changing the way the fashion industry does business. One of my most respected business colleagues, Crosby Noricks, of PR Couture, along with our own Maria Ogneva were fortunate enough to attend the Nolcha’s Fashion Business Panel. Crosby recorded the panel and wrote:

Nolcha hosted a Fashion Business Panel featuring Christine Driscoll, Business Development Manager of EDUN LIVE, Debora Pokallus, Founder of Bel Esprit Showroom, Elizabeth Olsen, Fashion Designer and Founder of Olsenhaus, Holly Landau, Leadership Expert and CEO of the consulting firm, Landau Leadership, Judy Galloway. owner of G Marketing Group, and Emcee Matthew Weiss, Global Learning Chair, Entrepreneurs’ Organization. In case you aren’t familiar, Nolcha is a wonderful platform for emerging and independent fashion talent to be educated, network and showcase their work on a global stage. They are known for their shared resources, business advice and continually expanding tools. The panel was aimed at the designer just starting out, with advice dispensed on all the basics, from creating a business plan to getting your designs into local boutiques and basic PR techniques. There was so much great information and priceless advice flowing I just turned on my flip in the hopes of bringing the knowledge back to you!

Part One: What To Expect When Starting A Fashion Business

• Fashion marketers love Seth Godin. What make you business remarkable? What’s your “Purple Cow?”
• Do you need trade shows? are there more cost effective alternatives?
• How do you establish your own niche markets?

Part Two: How Do You Balance & Manage Your Fashion Business?

• Time and money management.
• The Internet and interns are your best friend.
• Crowdsourcing  and partnerships.

Part Three: How To Write A Marketing & Business Plan

• Investors vs. Friend/Family Funding
• A successful fashion business is built on constant collaboration

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