We recently connected with Lee Rickie and have shared our conversation below.

Lee , thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today What do you think it takes to be successful?

Success for a small Black-owned cut and sew clothing company often involves a strong brand identity, quality products, effective marketing, and building a supportive community. Establishing an online presence, networking, and prioritizing customer satisfaction can also contribute to long-term success.

I initiated my journey by sharing personally crafted outfits on Instagram, sparking inquiries about purchasing. This organic beginning led to a loyal customer base witnessing the brand’s growth, spreading through word-of-mouth. Despite challenges in distancing myself from the brand’s identity as it expands, I prioritize maintaining a personal connection, believing it’s crucial for customers to feel connected to both the products and me.

Lee , before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?

LRC, born out of a personal need for self-expression, traces its roots back to my high school days when my quiet nature found a loud voice in fashion design. Unlike the cliché pursuit of profit, my brand stems from a genuine love for what I do. Specializing in menswear, LRC blends high-end deadstock fabrics with contemporary design, aiming to expand men’s fashion options beyond basic silhouettes often available in the industry.

Our commitment to uniqueness goes beyond design; we pride ourselves on developing garments from scratch. This involves sourcing fabrics, selecting hardware, designing clothing patterns, and collaborating with skilled seamstresses in our local atelier. This hands-on approach stands in contrast to the prevalent dropship trend, emphasizing the authenticity and craftsmanship embedded in each LRC creation.

How did you put together the initial capital you needed to start your business?

Diverging from the conventional path, I didn’t launch my brand with a loan or initial capital. Instead, I took on multiple jobs, diligently working until the brand could sustain itself. Prior to founding LRC, I initiated the “Future Fashion of America” program, which penetrated public schools, imparting essential skills in selling and garment development to kids. The program gained traction in 10 schools within the Berkeley Unified School District and San Francisco Unified School District, enjoying a successful 10-year run.

Through dedication and strategic saving, I accumulated the necessary funds to establish LRC and open our Atelier.

How did you build your audience on social media?

Analyzing my online metrics reveals that a significant 80% of my sales are driven by social media, underscoring the importance of cultivating a community online. As a small business, competing with big brands in marketing is challenging, making it crucial to leverage social media platforms. Despite the challenges presented by consumer access, the transparency afforded by these platforms is invaluable. Establishing a genuine connection with customers builds trust and confidence, emphasizing the person behind the brand.

I strongly believe in authenticity on social media—being real with followers and offering insights into the product’s creation process. This transparency fosters consumer trust, ultimately translating into meaningful sales for the business.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.leerickie.com
• Instagram: @leerickiecollection
• Facebook: Lee Rickie Men’s Boutique
• Linkedin: Lee Rickie Collection

Image Credits
Photographer : Tony Bowen Model : Shawn Wells