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2021: Business in Review

I hope you can also take some time to reflect on this year and celebrate the wins both big and small. Here are some of the highlights that felt significant for my business this year (and I hope some of them have been or will be significant for your business as well!).

2021: Year in Review

Fashion Business, Fashion Resources

I don’t know about you, but for me 2021 was one of the busiest years yet. I’m reflecting on what filled my workdays in 2021. I’m celebrating the milestones, analyzing what worked and what didn’t, and pondering the lessons I learned. Join me for a two-part Alison Hoenes Design 2021 year in review.

6 Questions Every Fashion Business Owner Should Be Prepared To Answer

Fashion Business, Industry Basics

Starting your own fashion business involves many steps. You as the founder have to make the decisions to move your business towards your goals. But even before you start working through the spreadsheets, sticky notes, voice memos, or whichever method you use to track your to-dos, there are some questions you need to answer first.

What I Learned About Tech Packs From Making A Family Recipe For Thanksgiving

Mindset, Product Development, Tech Design

The feast turned out great all around and we’re still enjoying the leftovers, but all the debate, guesswork, and phoning a friend about the family recipes got me thinking about how not having a tech pack results in similar commotion for similar reasons.

How Long It Really Takes To Launch Your First Collection

Fashion Business, How To, Industry Basics, Product Development

Whatever prompted you to start this business and however eager you are to get your design ideas out into the world, you need a realistic timeline for developing your collection so you can plan your launch. Getting a first collection ready to launch may take longer than you think.

Why Quality Patterns Matter In Production

Industry Basics, Patternmaking, Product Development

In general, I think that when people think of quality production, they think of quality sewing. While this is certainly true, it is what’s upstream of the sewing – like the pattern – that has the most control over the quality of the finished garment.

5 Ways to Use Reference Samples

How To, Industry Basics, Product Development

Throughout product development and production, you’re going to be communicating with many different people. Clothing is very physical and visual, so having reference samples to look at during these conversations will keep everyone on the same page. So, what exactly can you use reference samples for?

Alison Hoenes Design Turns 4! (Exciting Updates)

Fashion Business, Patternmaking, Sustainability

I get to work with amazing clients and be part of making clothes that fit the lifestyle, values, and bodies of real women. This year has been the busiest yet and I’ve had a lot going on behind the scenes. Today I’m excited to share a few exciting updates about Alison Hoenes Design!

Should You Start Your Brand By Making Pattern Blocks?

Fashion Business, Fit, How To, Industry Basics, Patternmaking, Product Development

I often get asked “should I make pattern blocks for each category before developing and launching my collection?” Blocks and slopers are what we all were taught to start with in fashion. However, I recommend a different approach that gets you testing your market quicker and is more efficient for future development.

Stop Defining The Success Of Your Business Like Fast Fashion

Ethics, Fashion Business, Mindset

Most of us agree that fast fashion is toxic. We see the dangers of fast fashion and are eager to change that mindset about our clothes. But, even once it’s gone from your wardrobe, the fast fashion mindset can still creep into your business.

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