Become A Joiner: Find Your Community

Last night, I watched a documentary on Netflix called Join or Die, based on Robert Putnam’s book Bowling Alone. The film explores the decline of community engagement in American society. This topic hit home for me as I’ve been wrestling with how to build a true community in the fashion industry.

Years ago, career coaches advised me to start sharing free educational content to attract people to our deep expertise in apparel development. We’ve done that consistently for over three years at The Business of Apparel, and while the results have been impactful for individuals, something has still felt missing: connection.

Why Isn’t There a Stronger Fashion Industry Community?

Putnam’s research shows that since the 1960s, participation in groups—social clubs, hobby circles, civic organizations—has steadily declined. At a time when the world feels more divided, building supportive industry communities has never been more vital.

That insight helped me realize something: by fostering a more connected, inclusive, and resource-rich community for apparel professionals, we’re not just helping people grow in their careers—we may be helping them live better, more fulfilled lives.

My Own Journey: From Corporate to Community

When I left the corporate apparel world in 2021 to start Unmarked Street, one of my first instincts was to find mentors and join communities. After working in offices where teams were assigned—not chosen—it felt powerful to finally handpick my support system.

I’ve since joined several coaching cohorts, including an intimate mastermind that has become one of my most valuable support networks. Investing over six figures into these learning experiences has helped me scale my business and surround myself with people who get it.

But not everyone in the fashion industry has access to that kind of mentorship—or even knows it exists.

The Fashion Industry Is Still Operating in Silos

Too many of us in the apparel and fashion industry are working in isolation. We grind through long hours, often within toxic environments, competing instead of collaborating. Layoffs, shrinking salaries, and lack of transparency have only deepened these divisions.

At The Business of Apparel, we’ve been asking: How do we change this?

We've tried Facebook groups. We've hosted office hours. But none of it has quite hit the mark. The fashion world needs something more intentional—a place that doesn’t feel like another sales pitch, but like a true professional support network.

Community Is the Key to Longevity—in Life and Career.

Studies from global "Blue Zones" show that community is a shared trait among people who live past 100. They know their neighbors. They help each other. They stay connected.

So why is the fashion industry still so resistant to shared learning and collective growth?

The answer might be cultural. Many of us were never taught that communities outside of our companies could serve us professionally. We weren’t shown how powerful external support systems can be.

What We're Building at The Business of Apparel

We’ve been exploring platforms like Discourse, where fashion professionals can ask questions, share insights, and support one another, like a Reddit for the apparel industry. We’re also experimenting with free events, online memberships, and resource-sharing tools.

But we want to hear from you:

Is the idea of paying for a membership a barrier? Would you join if it were free? What would make a community feel worth it to you?

These answers help us shape a space that feels authentic, supportive, and accessible.

The Mission: Share Fashion Industry Secrets—Openly.

I left a high-paying corporate job because I saw a lack of support and knowledge-sharing in this industry. From startup fashion brand owners to assistant designers, too many people are operating without the education, mentorship, or context they need to succeed.

We’re changing that—one piece of content at a time. But we need you to join us.

Take the First Step: Join Our Free Workshop

If you're craving professional community, mentorship, or a better way to learn what's really happening in the fashion world, we invite you to take that first step.

Join us at the next free workshop and discover how The Business of Apparel is helping professionals like you build the careers—and communities—they’ve been searching for.

You can look at joining a community as a cost of time. Or you can reframe it as an investment in your future—your growth, your network, and your mental well-being.

Let’s stop working in isolation and start building something better together.

Join me in becoming a joiner.