Help Me With My Brand Launch

[Le Dirte]

Hey SF, I am in need of your advice and expertice on how to best get a small brand launched into my area.

The Story: For the past year or so, I have been screening shirts for my friends and I. Really simple things ie. Le Dirte across the chest, and a faux Louis Vuitton print - i know i know. Anyways, as my friends wear the shirts more and more, I am starting to hear a lot of posotive feedback from random people about the shits.

So this got me thinking...How could i best get the label out to the public?

What i am thinking is to talk to me local skate shop and give them like 15 shirts to give away or sell for real cheap with purchases. I would let the shop keep all the profits from that - a way of starting a good relationship with the shop. A week later, if all went well, I would bring in some more shirts, more intrecate designs, and start to sell them.

Now the reason I would give so many away would be to try to create a market base for the brand and hopefully get it out to as many areas as possible.

I know this was kind of long, but the more responses the better. Thanks for taking the time to read and i hope you all have creative ideas!

[Bing Bing]

I don't think you should give the shirts to a skate shop or let them sell them for real cheap. Once you do that, you've given up your bargaining chips. I do agree with giving the shirts out to people, but only people you know, have good style, or is a taste-maker in your area. Don't just give them away and over expose yourself. No one wants to see the guy sitting next to him on the subway with the same shirt.

Also, you need some sort of story/mission statement that goes with your brand and stick to it. That way, you always can refer back to your 'core' when you start to expand and diversify while staying consistent. I also believe that consumers like a brand that has a 'story' and seems genuine.

Once you start to build up a buzz, have your friends call local shops that you would like to be in, and ask for your brand. I know, it seems kind of decietful, but it works! It will help in the demand for your brand.

You must also set a price point consistent with your image and the competition in your area. One of the first things consumers relate to is the pricing of an item and are quick to judge on that attribute.

Don't try to get too big too fast. Slow sustainable growth is the best for the long run.

Just my two cents, take it with a grain of salt, but that's what I would do.

I'm so self-conscious...

Edited by Bing Bing on Dec 14, 2005 at 02:32 AM

[haptronic]

Le dirte

instead of giving them to a shop. try consignment where you set a wholsale price that you are paid when they are sold. [or actually on the 20th of the following month]

that way a store has no financial outlay and is more likely to give you a go.

[Le Dirte]

Bing Bing - Haha, ironically that is exaclty what i was thinking of doing as well. Having my friends call the shops around the area and ask for the brand. I once heard a story of a girl how did this and eventually there was so much buzz the stores actually saught her out.

Haptronic That is what i was planning on doing once a few more shirts are out to the public. I wasnt planning on giving the shirts away all the time, just for the first run to help with the buzz, then i would name a price to the shop if they were taken well.

[eodlover]

I'd suggest you reading Nigo of Bathing Ape's marketing strategies.

You are on the right track so far. And the guys been giving you similar strategies of Nigo's.

F*ck Fashion

[XK]

They are right. Decide your price point and don't just give them away to anybody. Create a buzz with original design and fashion forecast like a champ. Start at the smaller shops that are looking for original design in manageable numbers on your end. Tag less most times will require a larger order of shirts per color per size. Try to target peers that are constantly working the scene and give them your best designs that will back your launch. Just did it myself...not as bad once you break through....but take it easy. Unknown can work for you if you have a story to tell that coincides with the product. Have fun & don't stress!

.:: HUMBUGGED.com ::.