With the intent of elevating the fashion community the city went to its biggest retailer, Macy’s to house the space needed for the designers to work, and sell their garments. Fashion Incubator winners have access to sewing machines, computers offices and conference rooms where they can meet with buyers and conduct business in a professional space (something that is craved but difficult to garner by young designers everywhere). With the support of the city as well as a very well known roof over their heads, the creators and designers spoke to Nolcha about why this program is essential to keep style alive in the city.
Nolcha: How do you feel Macy’s has helped aid the cause of Chicago’s Fashion Incubator?
Melissa Gamble, Director of Fashion Arts and Events for the Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs: Macy’s has been integral to the success of the Chicago Fashion Initiative. Their continued support and development of the Chicago Designer Program is unparalleled. No other major retailer has provided such a partnership to nurture new design talent in this way. We look forward to seeing the top design talent of tomorrow emerging from the Chicago Fashion Incubator.
N: Why do you feel it is so important that a major retailer focus on not only a new designer, but someone who focuses on Eco Friendly clothing?
Kristin Hassan, designer, organiK Revolution: Because we are the future. With my emphasis on green, retailers are taking special attention because it's important to provide your customer with the absolute best. The green revolution is not a trend, but instead a lifestyle. Being a part of the Chicago Fashion Incubator at Macy's has been crucial in my growth as a designer and entrepreneur. I was 22 when I started in the Incubator and had brand new business right out of college... to be accepted into this great circle not only validated me as a young designer, but has provided me with the tools to be successful. It's given me a great platform to stand on and introduce myself and my company to the local design industry.
N: How did participating in the Fashion Incubator prepare you for not only a future in design but also business?
Glenn Mallory, designer: Even though Macy’s did not pick up my line due to price point the Incubator has been wonderful because I learned so much about the retail process (I come from a custom design background vs. retail) so I knew nothing about the retail side of the industry. I learned a lot from the seminars they provided plus got maximum exposure to allow me to expand my clientele base.
N: What has being in a major National Retailer opened your eyes to as far as business?
Agga B Raya, designer Agga Collection: Macy's has always believed the customer comes first. This simple yet powerful philosophy is the mission statement I will follow as I launch my new Spring/Summer, as well as, Fall 2009 collections; Agga and Raya Silver.Careful attention has been paid to the variety of shapes, sizes and lifestyles of women in Chicago...and the world. We have all quickly realized fit, style and value are important in our current fashion economy.
N: Did the Fashion Incubator give you opportunities you would not have had if you were working in your own private space?
Lidia Wachowska, designer Evil Kitty: My goal for 2008 was to build a strong foundation for my company. I wanted to get Evil Kitty ready for world domination. The CFI helped me do that. They provided a platform for me and Evil Kitty to create and launch a new and exciting Spring 2009 collection. I got a chance to restructure the company, so now I can produce larger quantities. I got acquainted with new patternmakers, manufacturers and suppliers. The CFI organized workshops that were very beneficial. Being around other designer was also exciting, beneficial and inspiring. I enjoy working in a creative environment. Some of the designers were a great source of information. Having a workroom and an office downtown Chicago was very convenient. I was able to hire interns from various fashion colleges. I could organize events and schedule appointments with clients, all at Macy’s on State Street.
N: Has Macy’s seen any success or positive feedback from the designers?
Kimberly Prodan, Executive Director of the Chicago Fashion Incubator: One of our designers, Yana German was selected to be part of Macy’s Chicago designer shop. Her line has been selling very well and Macy’s even submitted a re-order of her best sellers.
N: What is next on the horizon for the Fashion Incubator?
Melissa Gamble: The next phases of the incubator will include the development of a resource library for designers, mentorship program, build out the workshops to include more designers from the local industry, development of additional resources for the designers-in-residence including financial, industry and more. All six of the designers have exciting projects on the way for 2009 even after their residence at Macy’s has ended. As a stylist, Agga B Raya knows “how” to wear clothing is as important designing it, therefore she is combining her efforts by launching Raya silver. Glenn Mallory is working on a leather line. OrganiK Revolution is going to have a web store starting January of 2009 filled with exclusive eco-friendly printed tees. Kate Boggiano will also focus on on-line sales and the custom shirts her clients are consistently asking for. Evil Kitty is looking to world domination with the fan club, a jewelry line and the Spring 2009 collection. Individual designer websites will have more detailed information:
To download an application for the Incubator please log on to:http://www.chicagolandec.org/content/news/news_detail.asp?NEW_ID=210
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