The Business of Apparel

3 Manufacturing Red Flags That Can Destroy Your Apparel Brand If your manufacturer's quote feels too cheap or the turnaround time sounds unrealistically fast, this episode could save you tens of thousands of dollars. In this episode of the Business of Apparel Podcast, Rachel breaks down three critical manufacturing red flags every apparel brand owner must know before signing with a factory. These are the costly mistakes that quietly kill margins, compromise quality, and leave founders with zero leverage when production goes wrong. You'll learn how professional factories actually operate, why "perfect samples" don't guarantee perfect production, and how to protect yourself with the right agreements, tech packs, and ownership structures, before it's too late. Sign up for the Secrets Behind Billion Dollar Apparel Brands Masterclass here: https://www.thebusinessofapparel.com/secrets Join The Board here: https://www.thebusinessofapparel.com Key Moments: 00:23 Understanding Manufacturing and Production Red Flags 01:54 The Importance of a Golden Sample 04:24 Protecting Yourself with Vendor Agreements 09:00 Owning Your Tech Pack and Patterns 12:41 Evaluating Manufacturer Transparency 18:06 Conclusion and Invitation to Join the Board 19:53 Final Thoughts and Contact Information   Watch more of The Business of Apparel Podcast episodes: Wholesale 101: https://youtu.be/lpezH1YwCyE Use AI in Your Apparel Brand: https://youtu.be/Dn9tjPNmfaw  Grow A 7-Figure Apparel Business: https://youtu.be/rpQYDyo5Rao We can't wait to hear what you think of this episode! Purchase the Business of Apparel Online Course: https://www.thebusinessofapparel.com/course ABOUT RACHEL: Rachel Erickson—Fractional COO, Apparel Industry Consultant, and founder of Unmarked Street and The Business of Apparel. With 20+ years in technical design and product development leadership, I've sat at the executive table of a $25M apparel line and helped scale it to $60M in one year. After decades working inside major fashion companies, I learned the truth behind billion-dollar brands, and it's not about chasing trends or pumping out endless products. It's about building clean processes, tightly edited assortments, and obsessively focused customer targeting. I help founders and CEOs of performance apparel brands: ✅ Build lean, profitable product lines ✅ Streamline operations for growth ✅ Replace overwhelm with executive clarity ✅ Create garments that fit bodies in motion   Whether you're just hitting $1M in revenue or trying to break through the $10M ceiling, my team joins you as an embedded operations and product partner—running fittings, line plans, tech packs, and vendor communications so you can get back to leading.   To connect with Rachel, you can join her LinkedIn community here: LinkedIn. To visit her website, go to: www.unmarkedstreet.com.   

Why Sustainable Apparel Brands Fail (And How Wildhaven Wools Is Doing It Right) with Julia Billings What does it really take to build a sustainable apparel brand that lasts? In this episode of The Business of Apparel Podcast, Rachel sits down with Julia Billings, founder and CEO of Wildhaven Wool, to unpack the real story behind building a values-driven kids apparel brand from Alaska, without cutting corners, chasing trends, or underpricing the product. Julia shares how she turned a personal need into a profitable brand, why merino wool is one of the most misunderstood materials in fashion, and what most founders get wrong about sustainability, pricing, and growth. This is an unfiltered conversation about long timelines, tough decisions, pricing with confidence, and why loving your idea is non-negotiable if you want to survive entrepreneurship. If you're building (or thinking about building) an apparel brand, and want to do it ethically, profitably, and with intention, this episode is required listening. Sign up for the Secrets Behind Billion Dollar Apparel Brands Masterclass here: https://www.thebusinessofapparel.com/secrets Join The Board here: https://www.thebusinessofapparel.com   Key Moments: 00:27 Julia Billings: Founder of Wildhaven Wools 00:54 The Origin of Wildhaven Wools 02:54 The Benefits of Merino Wool 04:28 Sustainability and Longevity in Kids' Clothing 06:42 Masterclass Announcement 07:54 Commitment to Sustainability 14:03 Advice for Aspiring Apparel Entrepreneurs 17:50 Overcoming Initial Hurdles 18:31 Starting Small and Understanding Your Customer 19:20 The Importance of Passion and Innovation 22:05 Believing in Your Vision Despite Doubts 25:02 Fail Fast and Learn from Failure 28:01 Pricing and Profitability 32:00 Community Impact and Final Thoughts   CONNECT WITH JULIA: Julia Billings is the founder of Wildhaven Wools, a sustainable children's clothing brand making merino wool base layers designed to expand as kids grow and fit for 3+ years. An Alaskan mom who believes deeply in the importance of raising kids in connection with nature, Julia started Wildhaven to make warm layers that could keep up with her rowdy kids all-day outdoor play, without harming the planet and its inhabitants in the process. Since starting her brand in 2022, Julia has grown Wildhaven from a home sewing operation to US-based commercial manufacturing and a business that pays her a paycheck and employs other women in her rural community. In addition, Wildhaven has helped thousands of customers outfit their kids in 100% natural ethical merino and live the core belief that all kids deserve a childhood spent outside and wild.   Website: https://wildhavenwools.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wildhavenwools/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/wildhavenwools Watch more of The Business of Apparel Podcast episodes: Wholesale 101: https://youtu.be/lpezH1YwCyE Use AI in Your Apparel Brand: https://youtu.be/Dn9tjPNmfaw  Grow A 7-Figure Apparel Business: https://youtu.be/rpQYDyo5Rao We can't wait to hear what you think of this episode! Purchase the Business of Apparel Online Course: https://www.thebusinessofapparel.com/course ABOUT RACHEL: Rachel Erickson—Fractional COO, Apparel Industry Consultant, and founder of Unmarked Street and The Business of Apparel. With 20+ years in technical design and product development leadership, I've sat at the executive table of a $25M apparel line and helped scale it to $60M in one year.   After decades working inside major fashion companies, I learned the truth behind billion-dollar brands, and it's not about chasing trends or pumping out endless products. It's about building clean processes, tightly edited assortments, and obsessively focused customer targeting.   I help founders and CEOs of performance apparel brands: ✅ Build lean, profitable product lines ✅ Streamline operations for growth ✅ Replace overwhelm with executive clarity ✅ Create garments that fit bodies in motion   Whether you're just hitting $1M in revenue or trying to break through the $10M ceiling, my team joins you as an embedded operations and product partner—running fittings, line plans, tech packs, and vendor communications so you can get back to leading.   To connect with Rachel, you can join her LinkedIn community here: LinkedIn. To visit her website, go to: www.unmarkedstreet.com.   

This Simple Calendar System Will Scale Your Clothing Brand Is the #1 thing you're avoiding right now a timeline and calendar for your brand? In this episode of The Business of Apparel Podcast, Rachel unpacks why building a detailed, backwards-planned timeline is the foundation of a successful and stress-free apparel brand. Whether you're selling direct-to-consumer or eyeing wholesale, understanding your calendar isn't just helpful, it's essential. Rachel details production schedules, fashion industry timelines, and the leadership mindset required to hit your dates and grow your brand. You'll also learn about the "invisible killer" of apparel businesses: poor decision-making at key milestones. Stick around to the end for crucial advice on Spring 2027 launch timelines and how The Board membership can give you insider tools and mentorship to level up your operations. Sign up for the Secrets Behind Billion Dollar Apparel Brands Masterclass here: https://www.thebusinessofapparel.com/secrets Join The Board here: https://www.thebusinessofapparel.com Key Moments: 00:00 Introduction: The Importance of a Brand Timeline 00:33 Leveraging Fashion Calendars for Success 01:14 Building a Stress-Free Timeline 02:28 Decision Making and Leadership 04:24 The Importance of Timely Decisions 06:42 Masterclass: Secrets Behind Billion Dollar Apparel Brands 07:27 Commitment to Timelines in Leadership 07:49 Wholesale Buying Timelines 09:38 Planning for Spring Collections 18:46 The Board: Your Strategic Advantage 20:21 Direct to Consumer Strategies 23:20 Conclusion: Join the Board for Industry Insights Watch more of The Business of Apparel Podcast episodes: Wholesale 101: https://youtu.be/lpezH1YwCyE Use AI in Your Apparel Brand: https://youtu.be/Dn9tjPNmfaw  Grow A 7-Figure Apparel Business: https://youtu.be/rpQYDyo5Rao We can't wait to hear what you think of this episode! Purchase the Business of Apparel Online Course: https://www.thebusinessofapparel.com/course ABOUT RACHEL: Rachel Erickson—Fractional COO, Apparel Industry Consultant, and founder of Unmarked Street and The Business of Apparel. With 20+ years in technical design and product development leadership, I've sat at the executive table of a $25M apparel line and helped scale it to $60M in one year.   After decades working inside major fashion companies, I learned the truth behind billion-dollar brands, and it's not about chasing trends or pumping out endless products. It's about building clean processes, tightly edited assortments, and obsessively focused customer targeting.   I help founders and CEOs of performance apparel brands: ✅ Build lean, profitable product lines ✅ Streamline operations for growth ✅ Replace overwhelm with executive clarity ✅ Create garments that fit bodies in motion   Whether you're just hitting $1M in revenue or trying to break through the $10M ceiling, my team joins you as an embedded operations and product partner—running fittings, line plans, tech packs, and vendor communications so you can get back to leading.   To connect with Rachel, you can join her LinkedIn community here: LinkedIn. To visit her website, go to: www.unmarkedstreet.com.   

Your Apparel Brand Is NOT For Everyone! Niche Down to Grow and Build Customer Loyalty In this episode of The Business of Apparel podcast, Rachel discusses why your apparel brand cannot be for everyone. Learn the critical strategy of niching down to a specific target market, which is essential for launching, growing, and scaling your business. Rachel explains that trying to create a product for everyone leads to making products for no one, highlighting the importance of focusing on one perfect target segment. She uses compelling examples, from nudist colonies to different types of runners, to illustrate how varied customer needs are. Discover how defining a clear customer avatar, like 'Kara', can guide all your business decisions, from product development to marketing, ensuring you build brand loyalty through superior fit and comfort. This approach helps attract new customer segments organically and build a profitable, fulfilling brand that stands the test of time. Sign up for the Secrets Behind Billion Dollar Apparel Brands Masterclass here: https://www.thebusinessofapparel.com/secrets Join The Board here: https://www.thebusinessofapparel.com Chapters: 00:00 Introduction: The Reality of Target Markets 00:33 Understanding Your Target Market 02:26 The Importance of Niching Down 03:03 Masterclass and Community Support 04:26 Creating Brand Loyalty Through Fit 09:21 Defining Your Target Customer 12:41 The Power of a Clear Target Customer 17:58 Conclusion Watch more of The Business of Apparel Podcast episodes: Wholesale 101: https://youtu.be/lpezH1YwCyE Use AI in Your Apparel Brand: https://youtu.be/Dn9tjPNmfaw  Grow A 7-Figure Apparel Business: https://youtu.be/rpQYDyo5Rao We can't wait to hear what you think of this episode! Purchase the Business of Apparel Online Course: https://www.thebusinessofapparel.com/course ABOUT RACHEL: Rachel Erickson—Fractional COO, Apparel Industry Consultant, and founder of Unmarked Street and The Business of Apparel. With 20+ years in technical design and product development leadership, I've sat at the executive table of a $25M apparel line and helped scale it to $60M in one year.   After decades working inside major fashion companies, I learned the truth behind billion-dollar brands, and it's not about chasing trends or pumping out endless products. It's about building clean processes, tightly edited assortments, and obsessively focused customer targeting.   I help founders and CEOs of performance apparel brands: ✅ Build lean, profitable product lines ✅ Streamline operations for growth ✅ Replace overwhelm with executive clarity ✅ Create garments that fit bodies in motion   Whether you're just hitting $1M in revenue or trying to break through the $10M ceiling, my team joins you as an embedded operations and product partner—running fittings, line plans, tech packs, and vendor communications so you can get back to leading.   To connect with Rachel, you can join her LinkedIn community here: LinkedIn. To visit her website, go to: www.unmarkedstreet.com.   

How to Instantly Upgrade Your Apparel Tech Sketches Using Adobe Illustrator If you want manufacturers to take you seriously from the very first sketch, your tech drawings have to speak their language. In this episode of the Business of Apparel Podcast, Rachel breaks down one of the most overlooked professional upgrades in apparel design...using stitch and symbol libraries in Adobe Illustrator. This is a live, step-by-step demo that shows how the best designers save time, reduce costly sample mistakes, and instantly elevate how their tech packs are received. You'll learn why manually drawing stitches is one of the biggest red flags manufacturers see, how stitch codes translate visually on garments, and how using the right tools can drastically reduce revisions, sampling costs, and production delays. Rachel also demonstrates how to download, install, and permanently save Illustrator libraries so they're always accessible, making your workflow faster and more professional every time you design. This episode is ideal for brand owners, designers, and technical designers who want their sketches to communicate clearly and confidently to factories. Download the Adobe Illustrator Sketch Libraries here: https://www.thebusinessofapparel.com/shop Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Professional Tech Sketches 01:19 The Importance of Using Brush and Symbols Libraries 02:31 Creating Professional Tech Sketches with Adobe Illustrator 04:06 Exploring the Digital Tools and Libraries 07:50 Masterclass and Additional Resources 09:37 Demo: Importing and Using Brush and Symbols Libraries 14:30 Conclusion   Sign up for the Secrets Behind Billion Dollar Apparel Brands Masterclass here: https://www.thebusinessofapparel.com/secrets Join The Board here: https://www.thebusinessofapparel.com/the-board We can't wait to hear what you think of this episode! Purchase the Business of Apparel Online Course: https://www.thebusinessofapparel.com/course To connect with Rachel, you can join her LinkedIn community here: LinkedIn. To visit her website, go to: www.unmarkedstreet.com.   

Why Pop-Ups and Trunk Shows Will Dominate Fashion in 2026 (and How to Use Them to Grow Your Brand) Pop-ups, trunk shows, and IRL brand experiences are back in a big way and 2026 is already shaping up to be the year they dominate the fashion and apparel space. In this episode of The Business of Apparel Podcast, Rachel breaks down why in-person activations are becoming a non-negotiable strategy for growth, especially as AI-driven brands begin to lose their human touch. If you've been relying on digital alone, it's time to reconsider how you connect with your audience. Whether it's a curated trunk show, a farmer's market booth, or a major trade show appearance, Rachel shares how showing up in person can reveal real customer thoughts, boost community engagement, and help you future-proof your brand. If you're serious about scaling in 2026, this episode is for you. Come see us at MAGIC in Las Vegas, Feb. 17th & 18th, 2026: https://www.thebusinessofapparel.com/events Key Moments: Predictions for 2026 00:21 The Revival of Pop-ups and Trunk Shows 02:55 Benefits of In-Person Customer Engagement 04:34 Masterclass and Community Support 06:26 Leveraging AI and Personal Branding 09:42 Planning In-Person Events for 2026 15:02 Conclusion and Final Thoughts   Sign up for the Secrets Behind Billion Dollar Apparel Brands Masterclass here: https://www.thebusinessofapparel.com/secrets Join The Board here: https://www.thebusinessofapparel.com/the-board We can't wait to hear what you think of this episode! Purchase the Business of Apparel Online Course: https://www.thebusinessofapparel.com/course To connect with Rachel, you can join her LinkedIn community here: LinkedIn. To visit her website, go to: www.unmarkedstreet.com.   

2026 Planning, Profit vs. Growth, and the 6 Segments Every Apparel Brand Must Understand 2025 taught us some hard lessons. 2026 is about consistency, focus, and finally doing what works. In this New Year's Day episode of The Business of Apparel Podcast, Rachel breaks down what really happened behind the scenes in 2025. What grew, what burned out the team, and why understanding your actual customer segments (not just your ideal target customer) is the key to profitable growth in 2026. Rachel also touches on how prioritizing profitability over vanity metrics, saying no to burnout-driven growth, and building a team before you feel ready creates space for real momentum. Rachel also reveals what's coming in 2026: free workshops, expanded mentorship, deeper personalization, student-focused education, and a renewed commitment to community-first business building. If you're an apparel founder trying to scale sustainably, or questioning whether you're growing in the right direction, this episode is your new year reset. Key Moments: 2025 Recap 00:28 Welcome to 2026: New Year, New Plans 01:29 Reflecting on 2025: Lessons Learned 02:34 2026 Goals and Workshops 04:45 Masterclass and Community Engagement 07:31 Understanding Our Audience Segments 11:52 Expanding Services and New Initiatives 20:32 Fashion Business School and Student Programs 23:34 Team Roles and Future Plans 27:32 Warpping Up   Sign up for the Secrets Behind Billion Dollar Apparel Brands Masterclass here: https://www.thebusinessofapparel.com/secrets Join The Board here: https://www.thebusinessofapparel.com/the-board We can't wait to hear what you think of this episode! Purchase the Business of Apparel Online Course: https://www.thebusinessofapparel.com/course To connect with Rachel, you can join her LinkedIn community here: LinkedIn. To visit her website, go to: www.unmarkedstreet.com.   

How to Turn Holiday Returns into Lifetime Customers for Your Apparel Brand Returns don't have to hurt your brand...they can build it. In this short yet powerful episode of The Business of Apparel Podcast, Rachel shares how returns and exchanges, especially during the busy holiday season, can be transformed into a strategic advantage for your apparel brand. Instead of dreading post-holiday returns, learn how to handle them for quality data, improve your customer service touchpoints, and build brand loyalty. Rachel walks through how to handle customer feedback (the good and the brutal), why you should never chase perfection for everyone, and how to create a customer experience that leaves people talking, in a good way. Whether you're deep in the return season or planning for next year, this episode will shift your mindset and help you lead with confidence. Key Moments: 00:00 Introduction to Returns and Exchanges 00:31 Holiday Returns: Turning Stress into Opportunity 01:56 Collecting Valuable Feedback 03:13 Handling Sizing and Fit Issues 07:18 Quality Concerns and Customer Preferences 08:51 Creating a Positive Customer Service Experience 11:35 Conclusion    Sign up for the Secrets Behind Billion Dollar Apparel Brands Masterclass here: https://www.thebusinessofapparel.com/secrets Join The Board here: https://www.thebusinessofapparel.com/the-board We can't wait to hear what you think of this episode! Purchase the Business of Apparel Online Course: https://www.thebusinessofapparel.com/course To connect with Rachel, you can join her LinkedIn community here: LinkedIn. To visit her website, go to: www.unmarkedstreet.com.   

Wholesale 101: Is Your Apparel Brand Ready to Sell to Boutiques? Are you ready to sell your apparel line into wholesale? Before you jump into boutiques and department stores, make sure your pricing is solid...or risk losing money fast. In this episode of The Business of Apparel Podcast, Rachel breaks down the essentials of launching a wholesale strategy the smart way. From understanding keystone pricing and margin structure to the nitty-gritty of salesman samples and development timelines, this is your crash course in Wholesale 101. Whether you're scaling from DTC (Direct to Consumer) or building a blended retail model, this episode helps you avoid costly mistakes and confidently step into the wholesale game, with your numbers in check. Key Moments: 00:00 Introduction to Wholesale Selling 00:29 Personal Update 00:57 Understanding Wholesale Pricing 02:44 The Salesman Sample Process 04:33 Masterclass and Membership Introduction 09:43 Final Tips and Best Practices 19:55 Conclusion and Contact Information   Sign up for the Secrets Behind Billion Dollar Apparel Brands Masterclass here: https://www.thebusinessofapparel.com/secrets Join The Board here: https://www.thebusinessofapparel.com/the-board We can't wait to hear what you think of this episode! Purchase the Business of Apparel Online Course: https://www.thebusinessofapparel.com/course To connect with Rachel, you can join her LinkedIn community here: LinkedIn. To visit her website, go to: www.unmarkedstreet.com.   

Post-BFCM Profits | How to Decode Your Data & Boost 2026 Sales Black Friday and Cyber Monday are over, but your most important work is just beginning. If you're only looking at total sales, you're missing the bigger picture. This episode of the Business of Apparel Podcast breaks down how to actually read your BFCM data so you can scale smarter, not just harder. Rachel is also diving into what to do after the madness of Black Friday and Cyber Monday. Discover why focusing on gross sales alone is a costly mistake and how to analyze the data in your CRM, ad accounts, and customer base to optimize for real profitability and retention. Rachel walks us through the metrics that matter most, from profit margins, CAC, and AOV to customer segmentation and product performance. Whether you crushed it or feel like you barely made it through, this is your guide to making better, data-driven decisions for your apparel brand going into 2026. Plus, Rachel shares a sneak peek at a free 3-day Black Friday planning workshop coming in August 2026! Key Moments: 00:00 Introduction to Post-Black Friday Data 00:27 Analyzing Black Friday and Cyber Monday Data 02:34 Understanding Profit Margins and Sales Strategies 04:39 Masterclass and Advanced Strategies 05:14 Key Metrics: AOV and CAC 08:04 Inventory and Product Analysis 10:47 Customer Segmentation and Retention 12:14 Marketing Performance and Ad Analysis 15:43 Engaging New Customers and UGC 19:43 Upcoming Workshops and Final Thoughts   Sign up for the Secrets Behind Billion Dollar Apparel Brands Masterclass here: https://www.thebusinessofapparel.com/secrets Join The Board here: https://www.thebusinessofapparel.com/the-board We can't wait to hear what you think of this episode! Purchase the Business of Apparel Online Course: https://www.thebusinessofapparel.com/course To connect with Rachel, you can join her LinkedIn community here: LinkedIn. To visit her website, go to: www.unmarkedstreet.com.   

How to Create an Unboxing Experience That Builds Brand Loyalty Your packaging is more than just a box, it's your brand's first physical impression. If you're not thinking about it early, you're risking delays, legal issues, and missed opportunities to connect with your customer. In this episode of The Business of Apparel Podcast, Rachel breaks down why your apparel brand's unboxing experience could be the secret weapon for brand loyalty, customer retention, and operational efficiency. From mandatory care content labels to QR code innovation and sustainable packaging, Rachel walks through every detail you need to consider. If you've ever been caught off guard by last-minute packaging decisions, or haven't considered them at all, this episode will change the way you think about and develop your brand.. Key Moments: 00:26 The Importance of Packaging in Apparel 00:51 Challenges in Packaging Development 02:49 Creating a Memorable Unboxing Experience 04:01 Care Content Labels: A Must-Have 05:50 Masterclass: Secrets Behind Billion Dollar Apparel Brands 07:02 Alternative Care Instructions Methods 09:15 Global Care Label Requirements 13:16 Hang Tags: More Than Just Labels 17:53 The Board: Your Strategic Advantage 19:11 Tissue Paper and Bags: The Debate 22:50 Boxes: A Premium Packaging Option 25:13 Making Packaging Special   Sign up for the Secrets Behind Billion Dollar Apparel Brands Masterclass here: https://www.thebusinessofapparel.com/secrets Join The Board here: https://www.thebusinessofapparel.com/the-board We can't wait to hear what you think of this episode! Purchase the Business of Apparel Online Course: https://www.thebusinessofapparel.com/course To connect with Rachel, you can join her LinkedIn community here: LinkedIn. To visit her website, go to: www.unmarkedstreet.com.   

5 Hard Truths That Transformed My Apparel Business in 2025 Let's talk real growth...the kind that hurts a little but changes everything. In this special Thanksgiving episode of The Business of Apparel Podcast, Rachel gets real about the top five lessons she's grateful for in 2025. From massive revenue wins to painful misalignments, she walks us through the hard truths and breakthroughs that reshaped her mindset, team dynamics, client strategy, and leadership. This is not just a gratitude episode, it's a blueprint for clarity, scale, and sustainable success in your apparel brand. Tune in for the emotional honesty, tactical details, and CEO perspective that defines The Business of Apparel. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to The Business of Apparel Podcast 00:13 Thanksgiving Reflections and Traditions 01:10 Gratitude and Community Appreciation 02:42 Top Lessons Learned in 2025 05:01 Masterclass and Scaling Secrets 05:36 Client Experiences and Business Growth 08:03 Delegation and Team Empowerment 10:49 Understanding and Managing Client Relationships 13:32 Personal Responsibility and Client Engagement 19:08 Clearing Clutter for a Clear Mind 22:46 Year-End Reflections and Future Plans   Sign up for the Secrets Behind Billion Dollar Apparel Brands Masterclass here: https://www.thebusinessofapparel.com/secrets Join The Board here: https://www.thebusinessofapparel.com/the-board We can't wait to hear what you think of this episode! Purchase the Business of Apparel Online Course: https://www.thebusinessofapparel.com/course To connect with Rachel, you can join her LinkedIn community here: LinkedIn. To visit her website, go to: www.unmarkedstreet.com.   

Come With Me to Do A Live Press Briefing for The Business of Apparel and Unmarked Street! From corporate burnout to leading an apparel education movement — Rachel goes completely off-script in this special live press briefing episode! For the first time ever on the show, Rachel is joined by Ella Ripley Rodriguez, Unmarked Street and Business of Apparel's marketing assistant, to flip the script and walk her through an unscripted, behind-the-scenes press interview. You'll hear Rachel's raw reflections on leaving a high-paying fashion job, starting her own agency, and building The Business of Apparel into the go-to mentorship platform for serious apparel founders. Rachel and Ella go into everything from the most common mistakes startup brands make, to leadership lessons, to why she believes slow growth is the key to real sustainability. If you're building an apparel brand or even just dreaming about it, this episode is not to be missed! Key Moments: 00:00 Introduction to the Business of Apparel Podcast 00:13 Special Announcements and Meet Ella 01:37 Rachel's Career Journey 02:36 The Birth of Unmarked Street and Business of Apparel 04:45 Unique Value of Business of Apparel 06:28 Masterclass and Mentorship Programs 07:57 Advice for Aspiring Apparel Entrepreneurs 12:17 Challenges and Leadership Lessons 21:44 Community and Mentorship Importance 30:03 Closing Remarks and Contact Information   Sign up for the Secrets Behind Billion Dollar Apparel Brands Masterclass here: https://www.thebusinessofapparel.com/secrets Join The Board here: https://www.thebusinessofapparel.com/the-board We can't wait to hear what you think of this episode! Purchase the Business of Apparel Online Course: https://www.thebusinessofapparel.com/course To connect with Rachel, you can join her LinkedIn community here: LinkedIn. To visit her website, go to: www.unmarkedstreet.com.   

The Smart Way to Offer Black Friday Discounts Without Killing Your Margins Slashing prices this Black Friday? Stop and listen to this first. If you're discounting without a margin strategy, you're sabotaging your brand. Here's how to sell smarter. In this episode of The Business of Apparel Podcast, Rachel is getting into the nitty gritty of strategic discounting, helping apparel founders avoid the biggest profit-killing mistake of the holiday season. Whether you're running markdowns on dead stock or bundling bestsellers, this episode walks you through how to use your line planning worksheet (grab yours at https://www.thebusinessofapparel.com/gift) to calculate margins and protect your bottom line. Rachel shares her color-coded margin system, what numbers to target for DTC (Direct-to-Consumer) vs. wholesale, and how to avoid falling into the red zone.  Get ready to make this season not just busy, but profitable! How to Build Your Line Plan Podcast Episode: https://youtu.be/6hzqe8DI5dc Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to the Business of Apparel Podcast 00:12 Black Friday and Cyber Monday Strategies 01:18 Strategic Discounting for Inventory Management 04:48 Understanding Profit Margins 05:25 Masterclass and Membership Introduction 13:53 Final Tips for Black Friday and Cyber Monday 17:09 Conclusion   Sign up for the Secrets Behind Billion Dollar Apparel Brands Masterclass here: https://www.thebusinessofapparel.com/secrets Join The Board here: https://www.thebusinessofapparel.com/the-board We can't wait to hear what you think of this episode! Purchase the Business of Apparel Online Course: https://www.thebusinessofapparel.com/course To connect with Rachel, you can join her LinkedIn community here: LinkedIn. To visit her website, go to: www.unmarkedstreet.com.   

Your Black Friday and Cyber Monday Playbook: How Apparel Brands Can Win Without Slashing Prices BFCM (Black Friday Cyber Monday) doesn't have to mean burning your margins or chasing discount chaos. This episode of The Business of Apparel gives you a smarter, more profitable path. Today, Rachel talks about creating a sustainable, profitable strategy for Black Friday and Cyber Monday. Whether you're stocked and ready or still catching up, this playbook is your essential guide, ranging from inventory planning to messaging, email workflows, gift guides, and post-sale engagement strategies. We also cover what to do if you're choosing not to participate in BFCM and how to own that narrative with integrity and positivity. This isn't about doing what everyone else is doing. It's about doing what works for your brand. In this episode, you'll hear: - BFCM logistics & inventory planning - Alternatives to deep discounting - Crafting intentional messaging & policies - Email marketing and automation ideas - Gift guides, style guides, and bundling - Planning now for next year's success - Navigating BFCM if you opt out   Sign up for the Secrets Behind Billion Dollar Apparel Brands Masterclass here: https://www.thebusinessofapparel.com/secrets Join The Board here: https://www.thebusinessofapparel.com/the-board We can't wait to hear what you think of this episode! Purchase the Business of Apparel Online Course: https://www.thebusinessofapparel.com/course To connect with Rachel, you can join her LinkedIn community here: LinkedIn. To visit her website, go to: www.unmarkedstreet.com.   

Use AI in Your Apparel Brand (Without Losing Your Voice or Identity) AI is reshaping how customers shop and how founders build. From virtual try-ons to AI-assisted sketching and content workflows. Today, Rachel shares how to use it wisely without sounding like a bot. In this episode of the Business of Apparel Podcast, Rachel breaks down the most practical ways apparel brands can leverage AI today, on both the consumer side (virtual try-ons that change how people buy) and the operator side (faster sketching, tech packs, and content support). She shares real tools she's testing or watching (On-Brand PLM, NewArc, Canva, Riverside Co-Pilot, Google Gemini), clear boundaries for accuracy and voice, and a warning: brands that ignore AI will fall behind, but brands that outsource their voice to it will, too. In this episode, you'll hear: - Virtual try-ons and how they'll impact conversion on brand sites - AI in design: flat sketches, colorways, early 3D, and PLM workflows - Tech-pack experimentation and where AI helps vs. where it still struggles - Using AI for marketing (SEO titles, captions, content calendars, brainstorming) - Maintaining authenticity with AI - Social Media platform shifts toward original content with AI saturation   Sign up for the Secrets Behind Billion Dollar Apparel Brands Masterclass here: https://www.thebusinessofapparel.com/secrets Join The Board here: https://www.thebusinessofapparel.com/the-board We can't wait to hear what you think of this episode! Purchase the Business of Apparel Online Course: https://www.thebusinessofapparel.com/course To connect with Rachel, you can join her LinkedIn community here: LinkedIn. To visit her website, go to: www.unmarkedstreet.com.   

The Anatomy of A Product Page That Actually Sells: Boosting Converstions with Strategic Storytelling Most apparel brands think a product page just needs a few photos and a price tag, but that thinking is costing you sales. In this episode of The Business of Apparel, Rachel breaks down the real anatomy of a product page that converts, from visual storytelling to size guides that slash return rates.  She walks through exactly what makes a product page not only beautiful, but profitable. You'll learn how to strategically craft imagery, write descriptions that sell through emotion, and use tactics like bundling, reviews, and fit guides to reduce friction and increase conversion rates. Launching your store or looking to optimize for the holiday season? This episode is packed with expert advice you can apply immediately! In this episode, you'll hear: - The psychology behind why people buy from a product page - How to create shot lists for better photo & video planning - Writing descriptions that emotionally connect and sell - Sizing charts vs. fit guides — and why you need both - Increasing trust with customer reviews and testimonials - Strategic placement of CTA buttons and urgency messaging - Mobile vs. desktop design considerations for product pages   Sign up for the Secrets Behind Billion Dollar Apparel Brands Masterclass here: https://www.thebusinessofapparel.com/secrets Join The Board here: https://www.thebusinessofapparel.com/the-board   We can't wait to hear what you think of this episode! Purchase the Business of Apparel Online Course: https://www.thebusinessofapparel.com/course To connect with Rachel, you can join her LinkedIn community here: LinkedIn. To visit her website, go to: www.unmarkedstreet.com.   

How to Find the Right Manufacturer for Your Apparel Brand (Without Wasting Time or Money) Think finding a manufacturer is as easy as a Google search? Think again. In this episode of The Business of Apparel, Rachel breaks down the crucial process of sourcing and interviewing manufacturers the right way, so you don't waste thousands of dollars or end up with unsellable inventory. With 25+ years in the industry and real experiences from members inside her mentorship program The Board, Rachel shares very crucial steps to compare vendors, calculate true unit costs, negotiate MOQs, and protect your brand with a solid vendor agreement. If you're sourcing your very first production run or switching vendors to reduce tariffs, this is the guide you must follow to keep your margins clean and your operations smooth. In this episode, you'll hear: - How to start the manufacturer sourcing process strategically - Using your extended network to get real vendor recommendations - Understanding minimum order quantities (MOQs) and their impact on budgeting - Breaking down different types of costing: CMT, FOB, and DDP - Why vendor agreements are non-negotiable for protecting quality - Navigating tariffs and freight costs in today's global apparel market   Sign up for the Secrets Behind Billion Dollar Apparel Brands Masterclass here: https://www.thebusinessofapparel.com/secrets Join The Board here: https://www.thebusinessofapparel.com/the-board We can't wait to hear what you think of this episode! Purchase the Business of Apparel Online Course: https://www.thebusinessofapparel.com/course To connect with Rachel, you can join her LinkedIn community here: LinkedIn. To visit her website, go to: www.unmarkedstreet.com.   

Should Your Brand Be on TikTok? A Real Talk for Apparel Entrepreneurs Wondering if TikTok is the right move for your apparel brand? Or is it just another distraction? This episode breaks it down with real advice rooted in what actually works for small product-based businesses. In this episode of The Business of Apparel podcast, Rachel expands on a hot topic raised during a recent office hours session: Should your brand be on TikTok? We're taking a clear-eyed look at the pros and cons of joining the TikTok bandwagon. You'll get guidance on consistency, scheduling tools, native posting strategies, platform-specific content tips, and, most importantly, how to align your social strategy with your target customer.  Plus, hear about our $17 masterclass (normally $47) and how to join The Business of Apparel Board for weekly coaching and community-driven strategy. In this episode, you'll hear: - The pros and cons of launching a brand presence on TikTok - The importance of content consistency over chasing every trend - How to determine which platform is right for your audience - Leveraging scheduling tools like Later.com - Why a clear customer profile drives your entire strategy - How to make social media work even with limited time - Sneak peek at the Business of Apparel Board membership & live office hours   Join The Board here: https://www.thebusinessofapparel.com/the-board   Sign up for the Secrets Behind Billion-Dollar Apparel Brands FREE Course here!   We can't wait to hear what you think of this episode! Purchase the Business of Apparel Online Course: https://www.thebusinessofapparel.com/course To connect with Rachel, you can join her LinkedIn community here: LinkedIn. To visit her website, go to: www.unmarkedstreet.com.   

Why Sustainability Is the Future of Apparel: How New Laws & Tariffs Are Changing the Industry Fast fashion is losing its grip and the shift is accelerating...FAST. In this episode of The Business of Apparel, Rachel breaks down the rising tide of sustainability in the fashion industry. From changing tariff laws to game-changing EU regulations and the fall of influencer-driven fast fashion, the apparel landscape is undergoing a major shake-up. Whether you're an emerging brand or a seasoned entrepreneur, you'll learn what these shifts mean for your business and how to build a brand that lasts. Rachel reveals sustainability practices beyond fabrics (think: 3D prototyping, QR code labeling, and ethical operations), and urges founders to prepare for the new transparency standards coming soon. Plus: why marketing your slow fashion process is more powerful than you think and how to avoid the legal risks of greenwashing. In this episode, you'll hear: - How new tariffs are making fast fashion more expensive - EU regulations banning influencer fast fashion endorsements - Why slow fashion is gaining a competitive edge - The risks of greenwashing and how to avoid legal pitfalls - Sustainable practices beyond materials (fit, prototyping, marketing) - How to tell your slow fashion story to earn trust and loyalty   Join The Board here: https://www.thebusinessofapparel.com/the-board   Sign up for the Secrets Behind Billion-Dollar Apparel Brands FREE Course here!   We can't wait to hear what you think of this episode! Purchase the Business of Apparel Online Course: https://www.thebusinessofapparel.com/course To connect with Rachel, you can join her LinkedIn community here: LinkedIn. To visit her website, go to: www.unmarkedstreet.com.