We were lucky to catch up with Alphonso Williams Jr recently and have shared our conversation below.

Hi Alphonso , thanks for joining us today. How did you come up with the idea for your business?

I came up with the concept of Recycling Fashionably by taking a deep dive into my past experiences and memories, reflecting on the styles and influences that have shaped me. I wanted to be truly present in the moment, blending the nostalgia of past trends with the current fashion landscape. This approach allows me to create designs that are both meaningful and contemporary, bridging the gap between history and modernity.

As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?

The fashion industry is one of the largest polluters in the world. Producing new clothes requires a lot of resources, including water, energy, and raw materials. Recycling clothes helps reduce the demand for these resources and minimizes the environmental footprint. When we choose “recycling clothes” we take a crucial step towards reducing environmental impact, conserving resources, and promoting a more sustainable and responsible approach to fashion. I choose to recycle!

Growing up in Liberia, my mother used to sell clothes on her college campus to pay for her tuition and put food on the table for me and my older sister. She became so successful at it that she even traveled to different countries around Africa just to sell clothes. Unfortunately, she had to put all that aside, including having one more semester of university left, so that she could move to the US for a better opportunity for her family. Fast-forward to now, I’m the first in our whole generation to finish what she started (graduating from a university). This is my attempt to finish the other part of what she started, and you guys are experiencing it with me.

In my work, I focus on creating modern and timeless designs that are versatile for different occasions by recycling and repurposing existing garments. I believe fashion is a powerful tool for self-expression, and I aim to design pieces that allow people to express their unique identities while being environmentally conscious. My brand offers a range of products, from everyday wear to statement pieces, all designed with an emphasis on sustainability, quality, and creativity.

One of the key problems I solve for my clients is helping them find their personal style and feel confident in their clothing choices, all while making eco-friendly decisions. What sets me apart from others is my ability to predict and set new trends while maintaining a sense of timelessness in my designs. I’m most proud of my ability to blend historical influences with contemporary fashion, creating pieces that are both meaningful and current.

For potential clients, followers, and fans, I want you to know that my work is driven by a love for fashion and a commitment to helping others express themselves through what they wear, all while being mindful of our environmental impact. I’m excited to continue learning, growing, and bringing new perspectives to the fashion world through the lens of sustainability.

How do you keep in touch with clients and foster brand loyalty?

1. I stay in touch with clients through regular in person interactions, social media, and personalized emails. This keeps them informed about new collections, special promotions, and behind-the-scenes content.

2. I actively engage with my audience on social media platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter. I respond to comments, participate in conversations, and create interactive content such as polls and Q&A sessions.

3. I encourage and listen to customer feedback. This helps me understand their needs and preferences, allowing me to improve my products and services accordingly.

4. I implement loyalty programs that reward repeat customers with discounts, exclusive access to new collections, or special events. This incentivizes them to continue supporting my brand.

5. I offer personalized shopping experiences, such as styling advice or custom designs. This makes clients feel valued and unique.

6. I ensure that the quality of my products and services remains high. Consistency builds trust and reliability, which are crucial for brand loyalty.

By combining these strategies, I create a strong connection with my clients and foster lasting brand loyalty.

Can you talk to us about how you funded your business?

I was selling used clothes on apps like Depop, Grailed, Facebook Marketplace, and a few others. It was a decent way to make some extra cash, but honestly, it didn’t have any real meaning to me. It felt like I was just going through the motions, especially since so many other people were doing the exact same thing at the time. There was no unique touch or personal connection to the pieces I was selling, and it just felt a bit empty. I wanted to do something more impactful and meaningful with fashion.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.alphonsofashion.com/shop
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alphonsofashion/profilecard/?igsh=a2djZm1lOHR2d3Bn
• Youtube: https://youtube.com/@alphonsofashion?si=bh2CBtLXfoEGD62J