We were lucky to catch up with Kaitlin Bernstein recently and have shared our conversation below.
Kaitlin, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today Naming anything – including a business – is so hard. Right? What’s the story behind how you came up with the name of your brand?
There is so much meaning behind the name. That is why it stuck and why I couldn’t think of ever calling it something different. When I was in college, the fashion students were always talked about. No one took us seriously. Although it was more business based and not so much design or just drawing clothes. One day I walked into a shared classroom after another class had left. Somebody wrote “Fashion 101: Congrats I know how to wear clothes.” Or something to that effect. Also with a stick figure drawing. It was clearly a dig at our class that preceded theirs.
Then I thought, “well you can’t be naked” Food is important. Shelter is important. And so is clothing. We can’t all be running around naked! I made sure that the fashion was simple, t-shirts. This way is could argue that this is important, it’s not some runway type dress. At the same time, I wanted it to be about the funny phrases. Not only do I love humor, but I wanted people to focus on something other than how the clothes fit on other’s. I wanted them to read, and hopefully laugh.
Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.
I have always loved fashion. I used to also sketch out dresses with gel pens but I figured graphics for t-shirts would be the easiest way to start. First I started with getting my LLC. I originally ordered shirts but realized the cost to have all this inventory was too much and I couldn’t have as much of a variety. So i went to drop shipping. Occasionally, I can get some shirts printed for certain events to sell at.
I understand that there is a lot of competition. I always try to research and make sure I am coming up with something I haven’t seen on a shirt before.
What’s worked well for you in terms of a source for new clients?
Honestly, I believe it is important to use your own products that you are trying to sell. If you don’t want to wear them, why would anyone else? I love getting a complement and being able to say “oh thanks! I made it”
We’d love to hear your thoughts about selling platforms like Amazon/Etsy vs selling on your own site.
I sell on my website, Instagram, and Etsy. Connecting your drop ship site to sites like Etsy is very beneficial.
Contact Info:
- Website: Www.cantbenaked.com
- Instagram: @cantbenaked
- Facebook: Can’t Be Naked