Hello, Darlings!
Welcome back, and welcome to another blog from the Future of Fashion, a place where we can magically impact the future of fashion, beauty and creativity for all living creatures.
This week we will explore the power of joining fashion communities. We live in rapidly evolving times, where finding your competitive edge (in life and business) is constantly pursued. We are all looking to having a leading advantage as a way of ensuring success. Whether you are a student, fashion entrepreneur or an established brand, the journey to success can be challenging and lonely. Collaboration, partnership and connection are valuable for your growth and peace of mind. Therefore, joining a community can, and does, provide tremendous benefits in your journey to the future.
On a personal note, I have never been someone who seeks out communities. I am fiercely independent, with a strong belief that I need to create my own future, and that “no one owes me a living”. It may be due to Leo with Scorpio rising, Aquarius are the community people, always wanting to be with others and creating their own gang. However, I have had to challenge this tendency, as I also have a strong desire for love and connection. My deep distrust is easily overwhelmed with my love for people and being with (and contributing to) others. Some of the most fulfilling experiences I have had are those with people from far away whom I have met through social media or an acquaintance. In summary, I am in my “community era”, as I go beyond being independent and allowing others to be close to me for our mutual benefit and fulfilment. Fashion has always been a competitive environment, and yet, now we need connection more than ever.
Let’s explore the profound benefits of joining and being part of a community for both your personal and business gain. Recently, especially during the rise of social media, we have seen many communities form - Facebook groups, Linkedin groups, online learning communities and in-person sports or hobby groups. Also, since the pandemic, we have discovered our human need to connect with other humans.
Recently a new platform for communities has been formed called SKOOL, which was created by Sam Ovens, a powerful and brilliant entrepreneur. This is an authoritative place where you can find communities of so many diverse types and subjects.
What Is The Power Of Community In Fashion And Fashion Business?
SHARED KNOWLEDGE AND EXPERTISE: Joining a community provides access to a wealth of knowledge and expertise. From industry veterans to aspiring fashion entrepreneurs, to suppliers and technology experts, you can access a varied range of valuable information first-hand. This collective information and wisdom can help you navigate challenges, avoid common pitfalls and hack your way to success. In a fashion community, you may access valuable sustainable manufacturing partners or discover new and beneficial marketing strategies.
NETWORKING OPPORTUNITIES: Strong networks are the foundation of successful businesses. Being part of a community provides invaluable networking opportunities that can create collaborations, partnerships and even friendships, and elevate your fashion business to greater success. For example, when finding suppliers you can learn from others or connect directly with suppliers, without all the risks of trial and error.
VALUABLE INFORMATION: Most communities have valuable content created by the community founder. Not only can you learn from this, but you can also provide feedback and engage directly with the founder. You can create learning or business “Buddy Systems” to make your journey to building your business connected and fun.
GIVE AND RECEIVE MENTORSHIP: Communities are great places to find mentorship. People are naturally drawn to helping others with their knowledge and experience. A community is a powerful place for learning and gaining valuable knowledge for free or at a very low cost. You can also give mentorship to others. Maybe, you have a specific area of expertise that others can benefit from. These reciprocal relationships can be profoundly valuable and fulfilling.
CREATING THE FUTURE OF FASHION: The fashion world has so many exciting and talented people, innovators and entrepreneurs. Being in a community with such people creates a powerful future for fashion. Conversations created; and opportunities and businesses developed that will transform the industry.
Now let’s get back to a more personal note. Why am I talking about communities? Well, because I created one on Skool called “Fashionable Futures”.
My intention for this community is to create the future of fashion. I have always had a big commitment to making the world of fashion one of beauty, creativity, love and belonging. A place where everyone has the opportunity to express and fulfil themselves both creatively and financially. To connect with others for a greater cause, for something so much bigger than it currently is, what we perceive to be possible.
Creating this community was something extremely important to me and yet it isn’t (as I mentioned before) a natural expression for me. I always want things to be perfect, to have everything sorted out and make sure everyone is taken care of. As a community founder, that is an invaluable commitment, yet a community, in and of itself, is a living and breathing entity. When people connect it can be unpredictable and extraordinary. By controlling the outcome of this community, I’m limiting its potential.
What I can promise from this “Fashionable Futures” community, is an extraordinary group of members with amazing content. I’m always committed to having people take themselves to the next level without limit. My own experience, knowledge and expertise in the industry are invaluable to anyone, and when we bring that together with others, the opportunities are endless.
So, I invite you to join this amazing community - AND - it is free of charge!
Let’s change the world, and create the future of fashion and have so much fun.
I can’t wait to see you there.
Join here!
As always, have fun, love life, and enjoy fashion.
Kate xx