Life By DESIGN

In this episode, Charmaine Mischel and special guest Joy Sutton explore the secrets to sustaining a brand’s relevance beyond fleeting moments of visibility. Joy Sutton is a media powerhouse with over 20 years of experience. From her days as a TV news reporter to her current role as an podcast host, media consultant, and VP of Brand and Communications for a leading behavioral health company, Joy ha...

The truth is, most of us weren't taught early on how to exercise strategies to accelerate brand growth without burning out. So, we learned the hard way... but you don't have to. In this episode I unveil proven mindset-friendly models, like the 80-20 rule and Parkinson's Law, to help you focus on what can truly move your business forward, and enable you to thrive. ✨Haute Takes: Why foc...

On this episode, I’m joined by Ashley Cloud, also known as “Your Fashion Attorney,” who has dedicated her time and expertise to helping Fashion Designers protect their creativity and build legally secure brands. With years of experience working at the intersection of law and fashion, Ashley specializes in trademarks and intellectual property (IP), ensuring that creatives can retain ownership of th...

In this exciting episode, we dive deep into the creative mind and designer journey of Natalie de Groot. She shares how integrating AI into her design process has expanded her creativity and opened up new opportunities in the Fashion Industry. Natalie also reveals how she stays inspired in this fast-paced fashion world while balancing tradition and innovation. Join us for these insights into the fu...

Crafting a Unique Value Proposition (UVP) that differentiates your Fashion brand will ensure that it resonates deeply with your target audience. In this conversation we’ll cover everything from understanding your brand’s unique offerings to effectively communicating your value to your customers. Plus, we'll take inspiration from Stella McCartney, a leader in sustainable luxury fashion.   Key S...

In this episode, we explore the resilient journey of Carla Nelson, Founder of the BFWF, and get a vivid reminder of the fact that entrepreneurship is not without its bumps in the road. But, what do you do when challenges come from a place closer to home? And what makes it worth staying true to your mission even in those seasons when life keeps on “life-ing” ?? Connect with Carla Nelson: Website ww...

In this episode we delve into why it is critical to understand and engage with your target customer. 🚨Spoiler alert: The survival and success-level of your fashion brand will depend on it  👀   What You'll Learn: How aligning your brand's mission with your audience's values can drive growth. The impact of market research in tailoring your brand to consumer needs. The benefits of creat...

Join me for this lively chat with Tanesha Reed, a serial entrepreneur with 20 years of experience, who has helped hundreds of business owners to collectively generate over $1 million in sales through social media. Hear insights on her top three areas of focus: creating monetizable business strategies, identifying your target audience, andcreating  your customer roadmap. Get ready to learn how to c...

Taking back your time and getting the most out of your 24 hour day is easier than you think. If you consistently have a to-do list a mile long, and not enough time to get it done, let’s have a chat… . . Key Resources and Links: The links & resources below have been carefully curated so you can expertly navigate the Fashion Industry and you brand launch journey, from concept to market launch! L...

Charles “Corvsky“ Dieujuste, the visionary behind Scorcesa, caters to the modern bride with pieces that embody sophistication and a daring edge, perfect for the aisle and beyond.  With a background deeply rooted in his family’s textile craft, Charles has transformed Scorcesa into a symbol of elegance and resilience. Featured in prestigious outlets like Vogue, Brides, WWD, and Fashionista, Scorcesa...

On today’s episode we're focusing on a critical aspect that can make or break your fashion business: effectively costing your collection.   Whether you're an aspiring designer or looking to scale your existing label, understanding the financial underpinnings of your designs is a major key to sustainable growth. . . Key Resources and Links: The links & resources below have been carefull...

On today's show, meet Mikelle Drew Pellum, a fashion industry veteran with 26yrs of experience - from Designer to CAD artist to Product Development Manager, she has done it all. Now, as the owner of 383 Design Studio, she helps fashion entrepreneurs bring their visions to life using cutting-edge digital tools. Her expertise doesn't stop there; she's also an adjunct Professor at FIT whe...

Explore the unique Designer journey of the visionary,VIRGIL ABLOH who singlehandedly inspired a generation of young creatives to dream beyond traditional boundaries. His success with his second brand launch, “Off-White,” was a precursor to the historic moment when he became the first African American artistic director of Louis Vuitton’s menswear collection in 2018. Abloh’s rich career is a testame...

There's no such thing as being too old (or too young) to sayyes to more. Putting a strategy in place where you can have some say over how you make discretionary income in today's world is one of the smartest things you can do. . . Key Resources and Links: The links & resources below have been carefully curated so you can expertly navigate the Fashion Industry and you brand launch journ...

Shaw Bernard, the visionary behind the STRUT Models full-service agency, infuses the essence of her Trinidadian roots into the NYC fashion industry, and beyond. She has established a premier boutique agency which represents “the best and the brightest, from the darkest to the lightest.”  Enjoy our convo as we cover everything from diversity and inclusion, what it takes for new talent to have succe...

Explore the unique Designer journey of the creative mind behind "Maki Oh." Amaka Osakwe has gained international acclaim for her designs that use traditional African techniques with a modern twist. Her label is a favorite among celebrities like Beyoncé and Michelle Obama, and she is celebrated for her commitment to sustainability and the preservation of African artisanal traditions. . ....

Starting a clothing business requires more than just creativity. Whether you're designing a capsule or a full collection, acknowledging your budget and exploring your funding options early on is critical.   There are predictable choices for dealing with the funding dilemma... but choose wisely. . . Key Resources and Links: The links & resources below have been carefully curated so you can...

What would your life look like 5 years from now if you dared to build a meaningful brand that empowers people to boldly take up space, express their individuality and feel good in their own skin? Explore the 6 key steps in this episode so you can streamline your launch process and bring your business vision to life byfocusing on the milestones that’ll move your brand forward instead of wasting ene...

In a world that glorifies hustle, some of us have learned the hard way that success shouldn't come at the cost of our well-being. Discover practical steps to not just survive, but to thrive in entrepreneurship. “THRIVE” PDF: https://payhip.com/b/Y06Lf Key Resources and Links: The links & resources below have been carefully curated so you can expertly navigate the Fashion Industry and you b...

Designpreneurship isn't just about building a brand; it's about crafting a life of purpose and fulfillment. In this episode, we’ll acknowledge the elephant in the room: burnout. Burnout is real, it's daunting, but it doesn't have to end your entrepreneurial journey. There are no limits to what you can achieve when you step into your power and believe that you CAN. . .  Key Resource...

Life By DESIGN is a show teaching Designpreneurs like you how to clarify your brand vision and turn it into reality, without losing yourself along the way.  We’ll explore the roadmap to a strong brand launch, plus go deep with industry insiders, subject experts and examine the journeys of renowned Fashion Designers so you can apply the learnings to grow your own business, while designing a life yo...