Blog #001: The Very First Piece.
Blog #001: THE VERY FIRST PIECE
Read it, or don't. It will only help you see clearer.
Introduction
It all started with an experience, or perhaps just an idea. For me, it was both, and it began when I was a very young kid. Growing up in a small town an hour northeast of Atlanta, designer clothes weren't a part of our reality. I vividly recall Old Navy being our go-to for back-to-school shopping, despite the occasional teasing for my choices. But there was a raw beauty in that experience that left me craving more.
From that point on, I questioned everything about clothing – the cost, materials, country of origin, and any intricate details that added value to a piece. This marked the beginning of my enduring curiosity, soaking up information like a sponge.
The Early Exploration
In my middle school years, I found myself wandering sporting goods stores and online boutiques, despite not having the means to afford anything. My quest led me to inquire about printing, embroidering, stitching, and cuffing. I'd roam aisles in search of the most expensive items, analyzing them meticulously. This period marked my realization that not all garments were created equal, and numerous components influenced the price of truly high-grade products.
Around twelve or thirteen, my focus shifted to quality and pricing of clothing and shoes. While Nike Shox and Air Jordans caught my attention, my curiosity swerved back to clothing. I delved into the world of garments, determined to study and build my knowledge of the industry and the tiers of branding.
A Shift in Perspective
Intrigued by the companies respected by my elders, I initially didn't grasp the hype. But over time, I felt it, and I needed to keep learning. Holidays became opportunities to explore different fabrics and constructions. Yet, the exposure plateaued; I wanted to witness designer streetwear and athletic wear, not just dress clothes.
Around fourteen, a pivotal moment occurred during a visit to Dillards Dept. Store in Atlanta with my grandmother. As she tended to her returns, I explored the men's section, discovering a plethora of styles that resonated with my newfound taste. Ignoring price tags initially, the reality hit when I checked them – real leather jackets costing thousands. In that moment, a mission ignited: find the cheapest leather jacket in the store.
After relentless searching, I found a pristine Cole Haan lamb skin jacket, euro-tailored and thinly lined. I pleaded with my grandmother, assuming she'd say no. Yet, she surprised me by purchasing it. Little did I know, this wasn't the end of the story.
Navigating High School with a Leather Jacket
Excitedly, I paired the jacket with my best jeans, a polo, and loafers, oblivious to the storm brewing. Walking into school, I faced insults, jokes, and stares. However, things took an unexpected turn in P.E. when the teacher complimented my jacket. That moment clicked, revealing the pattern of controversy and conversation surrounding specific designs, garments, or brands.
I realized that people in the fashion industry, much like a 9th-grade classroom, waited for someone else to declare something cool before endorsing it. Identification was only part of the equation; the other half involved the association component, tying respect, power, and monetary value to the brand post-identification.
Lessons Learned and a Leather Jacket's Legacy
It took a decade to comprehend the conceptual basis behind living outside my comfort zone and the benefits of such a mindset. This mindset, applicable not just to the fashion world but also to life and goals, shaped my perception of the industry. The leather jacket became a symbol of gratitude, molding my identity and facilitating the ethical sourcing and production of my garments.
My journey continued in Atlanta, where I honed my ability to identify, associate, and develop my clothing designs. Ready to embark on my designing journey, I acknowledge the continuous learning, knowing each day brings new insights. The fire inside me, ignited by that leather jacket, remains unextinguished, and for that, I am forever grateful.
Conclusion: Three Points to Ponder
1. Ask questions: They require answers, and through them, you'll learn rapidly.
2. Forget what others think: Embrace your style; they're secretly watching you.
3. Recognition and association: Peers may mock what they haven't seen before, but once someone identifies or associates with it, opinions shift. Revert back to point number 2.
Exquisitely,
Sammy C