We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Ari Cogdell. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Ari below.

Ari, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today Let’s start big picture – what are some of biggest trends you are seeing in your industry?

Streetwear is in a unique moment where trends like baggy jeans, oversized shorts, jerseys, and bold patterns (leopard and cheetah prints, for instance) are making waves. These trends harken back to the bold looks of past eras but are reinterpreted for today’s fashion-forward crowd.

Consider the baggy jeans trend, for example. Think back to the 90s when hip-hop icons and skaters sported loose-fitting jeans as both a style statement and a rejection of traditional fits. Today’s fashion community has revived this trend, but with elevated designs, tailored cuts, and unique embellishments. A luxury brand owner knows this isn’t just about adopting the baggy style but also about elevating it—through thoughtful design and exceptional craftsmanship. It’s a moment to connect past and present, which gives it a sense of authenticity and originality.

However, trends have their limits. True style is forever. Legendary designer Yves Saint Laurent once said, “Fashions fade, style is eternal.” As a brand owner, knowing when to lean into a trend and when to establish a lasting brand identity is essential. With an artful approach to predicting trends, luxury brands can create collections that remain relevant while staying true to a core aesthetic.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

My name is Ari Cogdell, though most know me as “Syn.” You can find me on Instagram as @syncerecogdell. Fashion has been a part of my life for as long as I can remember, and I’ve been in the business for three years now. As Kanye once said, “I always had a passion for fashion before I had it, I closed my eyes and imagined.” That’s how it began for me too—visualizing designs, exploring style, and shaping my own look. I credit my parents for my sharp eye for fashion; they both had a great sense of style, and that influence has been a driving force behind my brand.

After finishing my collegiate track career, where I competed as a student-athlete for five years, I had to pivot when professional athletics didn’t work out. My passion for fashion went from a personal hobby to a full-blown hustle, and eventually, it blossomed into a legitimate business.

At Syndicate Streetwear MIA, I provide high-quality, thoughtfully crafted garments. Our collection includes signature items like the Bad Guy Hoodie, Seldom Synonymous Eau de Parfum, and Syn Denim. These pieces aren’t just bestsellers; they’re milestones that reassured me of my ability to create something people genuinely want and value.

What sets us apart is our commitment to luxury streetwear that speaks to those who see style as more than just trends. My aim is to craft products that embody both quality and authenticity, giving clients pieces they can wear with pride. I want potential followers and fans to know that every piece is made with intention, designed to make them feel both stylish and confident.

What’s a lesson you had to unlearn and what’s the backstory?

One of the biggest lessons I had to unlearn was that I could do everything myself. When I first started Syndicate Streetwear MIA, I thought handling every part of the business alone was a badge of honor. I wanted to oversee every detail—from designing and marketing to order fulfillment and customer service. But as the brand grew, I realized that trying to do it all on my own was unrealistic, especially if I wanted to scale.

The turning point came when I found myself burning out. I was struggling to keep up with the demands of a growing business, and my creativity was suffering. It was a wake-up call that I needed to build a team, establish systems, and learn to delegate. At first, it was challenging to let go and trust others with parts of my vision, but I soon saw how much it could improve the brand.

Now, I’m focused on creating efficient processes that allow the business to run smoothly without me being involved in every task. This lesson taught me that success isn’t about doing it all yourself; it’s about finding the right people who share your vision and building a structure that supports growth. It’s a lesson that not only helped me build Syndicate Streetwear but also gave me back my energy and creative spark.

How did you build your audience on social media?

Building an audience on social media was all about consistency, identity, and connection. When I started with Syndicate Streetwear MIA, I knew that posting regularly would be key, but it was more than just posting for the sake of it. I wanted each piece of content to reflect the essence of the brand and tell a part of our story.

For anyone starting out, my advice is simple: be consistent, and create content that represents your brand’s voice. Don’t just aim for followers—focus on building a community. Give your audience a reason to care about your story and be part of the journey.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://syndicatestreetwearmia.com
• Instagram: @syncerecogdell @syndicatestreetwear.mia
• Twitter: @syncerecogdell @synstrtwrmia

Image Credits

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