How To Succeed In Fashion Today

Aimed at new and established brands our How To Succeed In Fashion Today seminar featured a range of industry experts, that discussed topics including finding the right manufacturer, important documentation, the design process, fabric sourcing and the legal side of running your own fashion business.

Jenny Holloway, CEO of FashionCapital & Fashion Enter, started the seminar with a welcome and overview of the company, followed by a tour of the factory which enabled guests to see how the factory operates, manufacturing and production alongside the Fashion Technology Academy.

Gabrielle Shiner-Hill was the first guest speaker, informing seminar attendees of product development and the design process.  She stated: “You live and die by the critical path.”

Mark Dodd followed Gabrielle Shiner-Hill, sharing advice gained from his 15-years of experience in the fashion industry in various technical, sourcing and commercial roles.  He shared how he sources material for his own label and gave advice on how to avoid common mistakes that are often made.

Following a 15-minute break that gave attendees the opportunity to network with each other, Chief Executive of Enterprise4London, Richard Salmon, explained what Enterprise4London does and how the company can help start-up businesses through advice, workshops, access to finance and reward crowdfunding.

Sofia Hinkley of Gunnerbrooke LLP identified what the intellectual property rights are that secure designs and branding, how they can be protected, why this is important and whether recent developments will affect protection of intellectual property.  Speaking to our guests on a personal level, she ensured they all gained knowledge in this area. 

Last but not least our guests heard from business lawyer and mentor Nick Gould. Sharing his wisdom and thoughts he stated: “If you only take one piece of legal and common sense advice from my talk it is this; each time you agree or disagree to do something, make a note.”

Feedback from the seminar exceeded expectations here at FashionCapital and we are very much looking forward to holding future seminars.  Thank you to all of our guest speakers and attendees.

“More than I expected. Excellent content and perfect environment and group size.” – Sydney Fleming-Gale, FOXIE

“I have learnt a fair amount as to what to look out for and what to be aware of.  I feel more prepared and ready to proceed with my idea.” – Neelam Chhaya

“I have learnt a lot – an insight into manufacturing, sourcing and fabrics as well as an awareness of the financial and legal aspects of starting a company.  I really enjoyed today.” – Sarah Taplin

“I have learnt so much I couldn’t write it all down – so helpful.  Thank you!  All so informative!” – Judy Turton

Fashion Enter would like to say a huge thank you to all of the speakers who shared their incredible knowledge and experience with the new business start-ups.