We were lucky to catch up with Ram Rodriguez recently and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Ram , thanks for joining us today. Let’s start with a story that highlights an important way in which your brand diverges from the industry standard.
Hello, I’m Ram and I’m an independent designer of underwear / swimwear and other things that are comfortable, sexy and fun. My designs are different from the industry standards, as I focus on catering to men AND shapes instead of just one or two body types (yes, I do high waists too!). One thing I do differently from the industry is that I carry a wide range of sizes in my patterns and all my patterns data is true to size.
I been designing and making bikinis for men of all shapes and sizes. My idea is to create fashion-forward choices for every men from a size S ( 28″-30″) to 3XL (48″-50″). I make every pattern by hand, so you can be sure each piece of clothing is made with care. Whether your body type is pr an hourglass shape or even if you are petite, you will find amazing options at prices that should fit any budget.
My goal is to provide quality clothing at affordable prices. I believe in true customer satisfaction, listen to their ideas and help them bring their vision to life. I love custom work, where I can provide ideas and help the client come up with a look that suits there style.
Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers?
I discovered my love for garment construction from a young age. I purchased my first machine at Walmart, and I learned to sew on my own.
I started creating my own Halloween costumes – it was a fun challenge and that’s obviously where my passion for designing began.
After graduating from the Art Institute of Dallas with a degree in Fashion Design in women’s wear, I wanted to expend my knowledge and explore knits. that Initiated the interest for making a swimsuit line for man of all size and shapes.
I have years of experience in the fashion industry and 2 years creating my own line of swimwear for men, I even published a swimwear line for men for this creative & inclusive community that I am a part of! I love designing sewing fun & out of the box styles.
I knew that I wanted to be part of the LGBTQ+ communiy, Inclusivity is important to me, so I wanted to do something different (I love new challenges!) by creating styles that are unique and match all sizes.
Have you ever had to pivot?
After graduating with a Bachelor’s Degree in Fashion Design, my idea was to enter my Masters Degree in Fashion Management. Due to COVID, those plans had to be placed on hold. To survive I had to pivot my ideas and come up with something that would create income. In part, that’s where the idea to start a swimwear line for men started.
Fun fact, While in college I hated my knit class. We had to make a swimsuit for women and I remember I complained about that class for 12 weeks. Here I am now, making swimsuits for men.
How did you put together the initial capital you needed to start your business?
An important part of investing in my studio was making sure I have everything I need without going into debt. Before I started shopping for equipment, I evaluated my needs and come up with a list of priorities. For example, what was essential to my business, and what can wait.
Currently my studio is composed by great tools due to the fact that they were really challenging to get. This is not a purposeful choice, but this is how it happened. The way I financed my studio was buying one machine at the time and when I had the chance I bought another one.
I’m lucky to have a sister that has been very supportive since the begging and has help me along the way.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.ramrodd.net
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/r_ramrodd/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rammy2/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ramiro-rodriguez-35a571156/
- Twitter: https://www.tiktok.com/@r_ramrodd
- Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@r_ramrodd
Image Credits
Models: IG @ scruffy_lobo @unclezaddie @nickblair98