Helping Independent Apparel Brands Avoid Costly Mistakes with Elizabeth Solomeina In this episode, Rachel welcomes Flying Solo co-founder, Elizabeth Solomeina to talk about what it really takes to successfully grow an independent apparel brand from scratch and avoid some very costly mistakes. From testing the market to wholesale risks, Elizabeth draws from real-world experiences from over nine years helping designers break into the fashion world. Elizabeth shares the biggest mistakes new brands make during early production, the underestimated power of community building, and why slow, strategic scaling beats going big from day one. They get into how to test your market, build brand loyalty, approach PR and wholesale smartly, and use retail partnerships as a launchpad, not a liability. If you're launching or scaling a fashion brand, this episode is essential for you and your brand. In this episode, you’ll hear: - How to test your first apparel collection without overcommitting. - Why being visible as a founder drives sales. - Building a community that markets your brand for you. - Retail strategies that won’t bankrupt your startup. - The hidden risks of wholesale agreements. Connect with Elizabeth: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flyingsolonyc/reels/ Website: https://flyingsolo.nyc Purchase the Business of Apparel Online Course: https://www.thebusinessofapparel.com/course To visit her website, go to: www.unmarkedstreet.com. Like, comment & subscribe to my channel and learn more at https://www.thebusinessofapparel.com We can’t wait to hear what you think of this episode! --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Connect with us: https://www.linkedin.com/company/unmarked-street/ https://www.instagram.com/unmarkedstreet/ https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100076027998346 https://twitter.com/UnmarkedStreet https://www.pinterest.com/unmarkedstreet/

Mary Coats On Sustainable Fashion, Finding Your Fit & Her Role At Unmarked Street In this episode, Rachel connects with longtime friend and industry pro Mary Coats for an inspiring conversation about her winding path through the apparel industry. From childhood sewing projects to earning a master’s degree in sustainability and working with major brands like Pearl Izumi and Head Sweats, Mary shares her journey with humor, clarity, and wisdom, making this a must-listen for anyone in, entering or even thinking about entering the apparel world. Together, they discuss how sustainability isn’t just about fabric. It’s about people, education, systems, and small, intentional changes. Mary details her research on laundry behavior, her pivot into solar sales during COVID, and her current role helping scale the Unmarked Street team and its mission. If you're a student, freelancer, or founder trying to navigate your next step, this episode will leave you inspired and empowered. In this episode, you’ll hear: - The real sustainability issues most brands ignore. - Navigating career pivots and industry changes. - Sales and customer service in a small fashion business. - The power of networks and mentorship. Connect with Mary: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mary-coats/ Purchase the Business of Apparel Online Course: https://www.thebusinessofapparel.com/course To visit her website, go to: www.unmarkedstreet.com. Like, comment & subscribe to my channel and learn more at https://www.thebusinessofapparel.com We can’t wait to hear what you think of this episode! --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Connect with us: https://www.linkedin.com/company/unmarked-street/ https://www.instagram.com/unmarkedstreet/ https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100076027998346 https://twitter.com/UnmarkedStreet https://www.pinterest.com/unmarkedstreet/

How to Build a Line Sheet That Saves Your Apparel Brand Thousands | Full Tutorial + Free Template In this episode, Rachel is giving you a full tutorial on how to build a bulletproof apparel line sheet, using the exact spreadsheet used by both $0 startups and $16M brands. Whether you're brand new or already running a business, this line planning template will become your most-used tool for budgeting, pricing, and negotiating with factories. We break down how to calculate your landed cost, manage duty rates (especially with rising tariffs), and determine how many units you can actually afford to produce. Plus, we show you how to use this tool to project revenue, protect margins, and grow your business sustainably, without spending money you don't have. Watch the screen share to see it in action, and get the free downloadable template at https://thebusinessofapparel.com/gift. In this episode, you’ll hear: - How to calculate landed cost and profit margins. - Setting realistic retail and wholesale prices. - Managing MOQ and staying within budget. - Free template walkthrough and how to download. Purchase the Business of Apparel Online Course: https://www.thebusinessofapparel.com/course To visit her website, go to: www.unmarkedstreet.com. Like, comment & subscribe to my channel and learn more at https://www.thebusinessofapparel.com We can’t wait to hear what you think of this episode! --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Connect with us: https://www.linkedin.com/company/unmarked-street/ https://www.instagram.com/unmarkedstreet/ https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100076027998346 https://twitter.com/UnmarkedStreet https://www.pinterest.com/unmarkedstreet/ unmarked street,business of apparel podcast,fashion entrepreneur,business podcast,apparel business coaching,apparel brand advice,fashion business podcast,fashion entrepreneurship,startup founder stories,fashion startup tips,clothing line pricing,line sheet tutorial,apparel brand budgeting,manufacturing spreadsheet,startup fashion brand,fashion business plan,cost of goods sold fashion,how to make line sheet quickly,how to make line sheet for free

The Biggest Contract Mistakes Apparel Business Owners Make (That Could Cost You Thousands) In this episode, Rachel shares a very personal story that highlights a critical legal and business lesson for every apparel entrepreneur: always get it in writing. Through the lens of her current rental dispute, she draws strikingly similar parallels between landlord agreements and the contracts apparel founders sign with vendors, manufacturers, and clients. If you’ve ever relied on a verbal agreement, this is a must-listen. Rachel unpacks why tech packs and vendor agreements are contracts (even without a signature), how to handle redlining terms, and what to do when a deal doesn't feel fair. Whether you’re navigating NDAs, supplier terms, or a difficult landlord, listening to this episode will help you avoid costly mistakes and operate your business like a pro. In this episode, you’ll hear: - Why you should never rely solely on verbal agreements - get it in writing! - The essential contracts every apparel business needs. - Rachel’s personal story of rental miscommunication. - Never sign a contract you're not 100% comfortable with. Purchase the Business of Apparel Online Course: https://www.thebusinessofapparel.com/course To visit her website, go to: www.unmarkedstreet.com. Like, comment & subscribe to my channel and learn more at https://www.thebusinessofapparel.com We can’t wait to hear what you think of this episode! --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Connect with us: https://www.linkedin.com/company/unmarked-street/ https://www.instagram.com/unmarkedstreet/ https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100076027998346 https://twitter.com/UnmarkedStreet https://www.pinterest.com/unmarkedstreet/ the business of apparel, unmarked street, The Biggest Contract Mistakes Apparel Founders Make (That Could Cost You Thousands), contracts in apparel business, tech pack agreement, vendor agreements, redlining contracts, NDAs with manufacturers, apparel startup mistakes, legal advice for apparel founders, verbal vs written agreements, Rachel Erickson Unmarked Street, apparel business strategyfashion entrepreneur,business podcast,apparel business coaching,apparel brand advice,fashion business podcast,apparel business,fashion entrepreneurship,how to start a clothing brand,contract negotiation,small business legal tips,manufacturing contracts,entrepreneur lessons,fashion business advice,startup founder stories,The Biggest Contract Mistakes Apparel Business Owners Make (That Could Cost You Thousands),contract mistakes you should avoid for apparel brands

Smart Product Naming Strategies to Elevate Your Apparel Brand In this episode, Rachel is touching on the underestimated challenge of naming your apparel products—and why getting it wrong can cost you time, clarity, and customer trust. Drawing from her corporate experience (including a years-long product renaming project), Rachel shares how naming impacts everything from marketing to scalability, and why founders need to set up a thoughtful naming structure from day one. You’ll learn why descriptive names matter, how to avoid bottlenecking expanding your product line, and creative approaches (like using personal names or themes) to stand out while staying clear. Plus, Rachel offers practical advice for startup brands to build a naming system that grows with them—so you won’t get stuck redoing your entire product catalog later. In this episode, you’ll hear: - Why product naming is more complicated than it looks - Lessons from a corporate renaming nightmare - How naming affects marketing, product expansion, and customer understanding - Tips to avoid common naming mistakes as a new apparel brand Purchase the Business of Apparel Online Course: https://www.thebusinessofapparel.com/course To visit her website, go to: www.unmarkedstreet.com. Like, comment & subscribe to my channel and learn more at https://www.thebusinessofapparel.com We can’t wait to hear what you think of this episode! --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Connect with us: https://www.linkedin.com/company/unmarked-street/ https://www.instagram.com/unmarkedstreet/ https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100076027998346 https://twitter.com/UnmarkedStreet https://www.pinterest.com/unmarkedstreet/ the business of apparel, unmarked street, Smart Product Naming Strategies to Elevate Your Apparel Brand, apparel product naming, naming apparel products, apparel brand strategy, product naming tips, how to name clothing products, naming structure for clothing brands, fashion brand naming advice, marketing through product names, apparel branding mistakes, starting an apparel brand

3 Common CEO Mistakes That Are Killing Apparel Brands (And How to Avoid Them) In this episode, Rachel is going deep into the hidden challenges facing apparel brand CEOs—and the critical mistakes that can sabotage even the most promising businesses. Drawing from years of firsthand experience at Unmarked Street and working with dozens of clients, Rachel shares real stories (with names changed) of three distinct CEO types: the over-scaler, the financially unstable, and the relentless micromanager. You’ll learn what red flags to watch for in your own leadership style, how scaling too fast, neglecting finances, or holding on too tightly can derail your brand—and most importantly, how to step fully into the CEO role you were meant for. Whether you’re an emerging designer or an established founder, this episode is a hard dose of reality, but so needed to keep your business sustainable, profitable, and growing. In this episode, you’ll hear: - How scaling too fast confuses customers and crushes cash flow. - Why financial management is THE make-or-break for apparel brands - The high cost of micromanagement and employee turnover - How to step back and empower your expert team Purchase the Business of Apparel Online Course: https://www.thebusinessofapparel.com/course To visit her website, go to: www.unmarkedstreet.com. Like, comment & subscribe to my channel and learn more at https://www.thebusinessofapparel.com We can’t wait to hear what you think of this episode! --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Connect with us: https://www.linkedin.com/company/unmarked-street/ https://www.instagram.com/unmarkedstreet/ https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100076027998346 https://twitter.com/UnmarkedStreet https://www.pinterest.com/unmarkedstreet/ the business of apparel, unmarked street, 3 CEO Mistakes That Are Killing Apparel Brands (And How to Avoid Them), apparel industry mistakes, how to scale an apparel brand, apparel CEO advice, apparel business coaching, common mistakes apparel founders make, scaling a clothing brand, product line strategy for apparel brands, financial tips for apparel entrepreneurs, how to avoid burnout as a fashion CEO, apparel brand leadership advicebusiness of apparel podcast,Rachel Erickson,fashion entrepreneur,business podcast,budgeting for fashion brands,apparel business coaching,fashion business,apparel brand advice,fashion business podcast,how to scale a clothing brand,CEO mistakes fashion industry,apparel startup coaching,apparel industry insights,building a sustainable fashion brand,3 Common CEO Mistakes That Are Killing Apparel Brands (And How to Avoid Them),how to build a successful clothing brand

Everything You Need To Know About Apparel Manufacturer Sourcing & Factory Partnerships In this episode, Rachel breaks down everything you need to know about sourcing an apparel manufacturer and choosing the right factory partner. We go into the key differences between FOB, X-Works, and CMT production models—and why understanding these terms is critical to your brand’s success. If you're still unclear on MOQs (minimum order quantities) and MCQs (minimum color quantities), be sure to catch last week's episode for a full explanation here: https://youtu.be/z7d7_kjmWxE. We also talk about sustainability certifications like Bluesign and Oeko-Tex, how to assess factory conditions (hint: check out those floors), and why clear communication with your vendors can make or break your production process. Whether you're just starting out or looking to improve existing supplier relationships, this episode gives you actionable steps to build strong, lasting partnerships. Plus, learn why visiting your factory in person can reveal the real story behind their practices. In this episode, you’ll hear: - FOB vs. X-Works vs. CMT pricing models - Sustainability certifications, specifically Bluesign & Oeko-Tex - The importance of building strong factory & supplier relationships - What to look for on a factory visit and why a clean floor says more than you think Purchase the Business of Apparel Online Course: https://www.thebusinessofapparel.com/course To visit her website, go to: www.unmarkedstreet.com. Like, comment & subscribe to my channel and learn more at https://www.thebusinessofapparel.com We can’t wait to hear what you think of this episode! --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Connect with us: https://www.linkedin.com/company/unmarked-street/ https://www.instagram.com/unmarkedstreet/ https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100076027998346 https://twitter.com/UnmarkedStreet https://www.pinterest.com/unmarkedstreet/ unmarked street, business of apparel podcast,The Truth About Apparel Manufacturer Sourcing & Factory Partnerships, apparel sourcing strategies, FOB vs. X Works vs. CMT, how to find a clothing manufacturer, understanding MOQ MCQ, sustainable apparel production, Bluesign certification, Oeko-Tex certification, apparel factory visit tips, building supplier relationships, vendor agreement contracts for apparel, apparel brand startup tips, ethical manufacturing practices, production costing in fashionunmarked street,business of apparel podcast,how to source clothing manufacturers,apparel production tips,budgeting for fashion brands,clothing manufacturing explained,apparel business coaching,fashion sourcing strategy,apparel sourcing,fashion business,clothing manufacturer,apparel startup,ethical manufacturing,Everything You Need To Know About Apparel Manufacturer Sourcing & Factory Partnerships,apparel manufacturing tips,apparel business production tips

How to Use MOQs to Budget Smarter & Grow Your Apparel Brand (Secret Revealed) In this episode, Rachel is addressing the subject of Minimum Order Quantities (MOQs) and how they can make or break your apparel brand. As one of the most asked-about (and most misunderstood) topics in the industry, Rachel goes over how MOQs impact your production, budget, and growth strategy. Rachel breaks down exactly what an MOQ is, why it exists, and how to use this number to your advantage when negotiating with manufacturers. She also explores minimum color quantities (MCQs), the connection between MOQs and fabric suppliers, and how to forecast production costs with real-life examples. Plus, you'll learn how to avoid common pitfalls that can cost you thousands. This episode is not to be missed! In this episode, you’ll hear: -What MOQs (and MCQs) are and what they really mean for your apparel business. -How to ask manufacturers the right questions during the sourcing process. -Why MOQ's impact your profit margin, quality control, and scalability. -How to forecast production needs and negotiate effectively -Tips for choosing a factory that can grow with your brand! Purchase the Business of Apparel Online Course: https://www.thebusinessofapparel.com/course To visit her website, go to: www.unmarkedstreet.com. Like, comment & subscribe to my channel and learn more at https://www.thebusinessofapparel.com We can’t wait to hear what you think of this episode! --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Connect with us: https://www.linkedin.com/company/unmarked-street/ https://www.instagram.com/unmarkedstreet/ https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100076027998346 https://twitter.com/UnmarkedStreet https://www.pinterest.com/unmarkedstreet/ unmarked street, business of apparel podcast,How to Use MOQs to Budget Smarter & Grow Your Apparel Brand, minimum order quantity, MOQ, MCQ, apparel manufacturing, clothing production, apparel sourcing, fashion brand budgeting, startup apparel brand, factory minimums, manufacturing costs, apparel supply chain, sourcing strategy, profit margin, production planning, garment factory, color minimums, cost per unit, apparel business tips, clothing brand startup, fashion brand growthHow to Use MOQs to Budget Smarter & Grow Your Apparel Brand (Secret Revealed)