Why I Took a Break from Ready-to-Wear Collections

As a designer, one of the most fulfilling aspects of my work is seeing my creations come to life and in the hands of those who truly appreciate them. However, the journey to that moment isn’t always smooth. It’s filled with highs and lows, lessons, and unexpected challenges. That’s why I decided to take a step back from creating new ready-to-wear (RTW) collections, and I wanted to share my experience with you.

The Last Collection

The last time I designed and produced a RTW collection was in the summer of 2023. It was a labor of love; each piece carefully designed, produced in multiples of threes or fours, and prepared for a special pop-up shop. After pouring in months of work, the event was a success, drawing in customers who appreciated the craftsmanship and vision behind each look. Prior to this, my previous shorts and accessories collection had been placed on consignment in a local boutique that supports Bahamian designers. So when the boutique’s owner approached me after the pop-up, requesting to add my new collection to the existing inventory, I was hesitant but agreed to place half of the remaining collection in the store.

The Challenges of Consignment

Consignment can be a great way for designers to gain exposure, but it also comes with risks. Typically, the agreement is that the store takes a percentage of each sale, which was the initial arrangement I had. However, over time, the store attempted to change the terms, pushing for a membership-based structure that required monthly fees. As a new RTW brand, that model didn’t make financial sense. While I was open to exploring different business opportunities, I also needed to be cautious. More importantly, I was still waiting for payments from previous sales. Despite back-and-forth discussions, it was finally decided that I would remain on consignment instead of transitioning to a membership model. Unfortunately, even after ending the consignment agreement, I have yet to receive all the payments owed to me, despite multiple promises. This experience was incredibly discouraging.

Lessons from the Past

This wasn’t my first experience with consignment. A few years ago, I co-owned a boutique called JUJU Season, where we also carried products from other designers on consignment. However, we ensured that our consignees were treated fairly by maintaining a monthly payment schedule. We understood the importance of prompt payments because designers and artisans rely on them to keep their businesses running. Knowing this, it was disheartening to find myself in a situation where the same respect wasn’t extended to me. It made me question the sustainability of continuing to produce RTW collections under these conditions.

Taking a Step Back

This experience led me to reevaluate my approach to ready-to-wear. Designing and producing a collection takes a significant investment of time, money, and energy. When the business side of things doesn’t align with my values or financial sustainability, it forces me to pause and reassess. For now, I have chosen to focus on other aspects of my brand; exploring new creative directions and business models that allow me to maintain both my passion and financial well-being. While this isn’t a permanent goodbye to ready-to-wear collections, it is a necessary break to ensure that when I do return, I do so on my terms.

Moving Forward

I do plan on continuing with ready-to-wear by using my website as a platform until I am able to find other stores that I can partner with. This time, I will be more cautious, follow my intuition, and make sure that everything is in writing and very clear. This journey has been a learning experience, and I am grateful for the support of my customers and community. The love for fashion and design will always be a part of me, but moving forward, I am dedicated to building a business that is both creatively fulfilling and financially sustainable.

To fellow designers, artisans, and entrepreneurs; never be afraid to pivot, take a break, and reassess. Our creativity is limitless, and sometimes the best way forward is to step back and find a new path.

Thank you for being a part of my journey. Stay tuned for what’s next!