EMERGE, Taubman's Pop-up at Twelve Oaks Mall, Gives Small Brands the Chance To Shine

By Lisa Benedict

With locations all over the world, Taubman, FashionSpeak's presenting sponsor for five years straight, is a leader in the retail industry. Based in Bloomfield Hills, Michigan, Taubman continues to expand its holdings while keeping their brick and mortar locations fresh and innovative. One such fresh idea is a new venture within some of their malls (including Twelve Oaks Mall in Novi) called, “Emerge.” Emerge is a pop-up that gives small business owners the chance to operate and run their business from a dedicated storefront location for a period of time.

Detroit Garment Group spoke with Lori McGhee, Taubman Group Director, Specialty Leasing, about the EMERGE program.

Detroit Garment Group: The Emerge pop-up is something new for Taubman. Can you elaborate on the program? Is Twelve Oaks the only mall that Emerge is located at?

Lori McGhee: The pop-up boutique concept has long been a priority for Taubman and its centers as a way to deliver a dynamic shopping experience and help brands expand their reach. We initially launched EMERGE at Taubman Prestige Outlets (Chesterfield, Mo.) and then at Twelve Oaks Mall. Curated exclusively by Taubman, the new retail concept features a diverse collection of merchandise from up-and-coming designers and artisans in a co-op, marketplace setting. However, it’s important to note that the majority of Taubman’s shopping centers feature a variety of pop-ups, including the popular American Girl at Twelve Oaks (now open through the holidays) and City Creek Center in Salt Lake City (opening this fall). Additionally, the Hello Kitty Cafe Truck is a mobile vehicle of cuteness that offers a delicious array of sweets and goodies. The truck visited many of our centers, including Great Lakes Crossing (Auburn Hills, Mich.). The turnout was so successful, they are returning to Great Lakes next month for a second visit and they visited Dolphin Mall (Miami) twice this year as well. High-tech indoor cycling company Peloton has pop-ups at both Cherry Creek Shopping Center (Denver) and The Mall at Short Hills (Short Hills, N.J.). These are just a few of many emerging brands Taubman is working with.

DGG: Does the program only cater to those in the fashion industry or can any small business apply for an opportunity to host their store?

LM: This concept is for all types of emerging brands, not just those in fashion. We’ve worked with vendors that manufacture furniture, as well as skincare and food products. Our goal was to create something truly special for our shoppers and introduce them to new brands that are resonating with consumers. Many of these merchants don’t have a retail store, so pop-ups in general and concepts like EMERGE provide an opportunity for them to reach more customers and tell the story of what makes their brand and products unique. We want EMERGE to be a platform for brands to prominently showcase their products and gain access to new demographics.

DGG: How long is the program going to last?

LM: Both EMERGE programs are available for a designated period of time. EMERGE at Twelve Oaks Mall and EMERGE at Taubman Prestige Outlets will be open for the holiday season, every Friday, Saturday and Sunday beginning Nov. 17 through Jan. 7.

DGG: Does Taubman see the Emerge pop-up venture as a new way to shop as we are seeing flagship brick and mortars are closing?

LM: Research shows that consumers still want to see, feel and try the merchandise, so a brick-and-mortar location can be very appealing. Physical locations allow these brands to connect with customers in a way they couldn’t before. Additionally, brands often view pop-ups as an opportunity for quick exposure to introduce new or enhance existing products. Some may not want the pressure of a long-term lease commitment, so pop-ups can serve as a possible stepping stone for something bigger. We’ve found that it’s all about the experience. When visiting a new and exciting pop-up, many feel like they’re getting the inside scoop on new trends and unique products. These stores are a great way for consumers to check out new products and learn more about emerging brands.

NOTE: Lori McGhee, Taubman Group Director, Specialty Leasing, oversees the EMERGE pop-up initiative for Taubman. She will be making the opening remarks at FashionSpeak on Thursday, October 12, and will be available after her remarks for questions regarding the pop-up opportunity for anyone interested.

Industry Spotlight: International Design Consultant Locates in Michigan

DGG: Tell us about yourself, Anjali.

Anjali Purohit: Born and raised in India, I have pursued my higher studies in Accessory Design from National Institute of Fashion Technology, New Delhi, India and Masters in Showroom Design from Nuova Academia Di Belle Arti, Milan, Italy. Michigan is home to me now.

With over 10 years in the fashion design industry, I have worked with international design teams, factories, suppliers, and varied artisan clusters. Multicultural exposure and design education has played a huge role in shaping myself as a creative professional. 

DGG: Tell us about being a design consultant. How can local designers benefit from your services?

AP: As an entrepreneur and designer myself, I understand that budget, cost, production constraints go hand in hand with creative possibilities. I contribute to various facets of design, product and business development for other designers/labels/businesses. As each brand or business has specific needs, I choose to work in a customized format.

Sourcing fabrics, developing customized textiles (artisanal), prints & embellishments, production co-ordination, product development, sourcing/buying/planning merchandise, art direction, branding & market research, planning of seasonal collections, trend research, developing educational design modules are some of the services. I provide to start up / established designers & businesses in product categories like clothing, fashion & home accessories (leather, jewelry, textiles).

The format of payment can be on project basis for example. It does vary as per the requirement of the client & scope of work involved. One can reach me at onewindow@gmail.com for any inquiries. 

DGG: Do you prefer designing/buying for home or clothing?

AP: Currently, I have a stronger affinity for designing accessories (home + fashion).

DGG: For those getting into design or the fashion industry, what would be your biggest piece of advice?

AP: Design / Fashion education that combines industry exposure is a great value add to start of. 

DGG: Where do you see yourself in 5 years?

AP: Continue learning & contribute by working with design teams, artists & artisans globally.

DGG: What are you most inspired by? 

AP: Visual Culture. 

DGG: Describe your style. 

AP: Comfort & color lead the way for me personally. 

DGG: West Elm or Crate & Barrel? 

AP: West Elm. 

DGG: Blazers or sweaters? 

AP: Blazers. 

Local Designer Series: Local Designer Turns Her Dream Into a Reality

Local Designer Gabriella Gonzales finally was able to turn her dream of owning a designer business after she graduated college. Now, a designer-in-residence with the DGG Fashion Incubator, she has been able to grow her business more and more. Learn more about Gabriella and how starting a fashion business has been challenging but rewarding at the same time.

DGG: Tell us about yourself, Gabriella.

Gabriella Gonzalez: I have been designing for most of my life. I had the dream of being a designer business owner while in high school. At the tail end of college I started working on my business. Shortly after graduation I officially began my operation. Since then I have been learning the ropes of owning a fashion business. I take great pride in creating this company from the ground up.

DGG: Tell us about the Gabriella Gonzales line.

GG: When someone takes home a product of mine I want the customer to feel confident, and that the designs are an extension of their personality and themselves.

DGG: What is the Gabriella Gonzales design aesthetic?

GG: My designs have a classic and nostalgic feel, but also have a current look to it.

DGG: What has been the best and worst advice you have received since starting your company?

GG: When I think about the worst advice, I think about business articles that said don’t follow your passion. I don’t understand that reasoning. If we are to devote so much of our time and lives into something, we should be passionate about it. If there is no passion, what is the point of doing it at all? I have received a lot of good advice. One thing that sticks with me is that everyone we meet is for a reason. Business is more than an exchange of money. It is about the getting to know people.

DGG: What has been one hardship you have overcome since starting your line?

GG: When I first started my line I was still figuring out what kind of brand I wanted to portray. At the time, I liked many fashion themes and to narrow it down to one was a journey. Seeing how an outsider viewed my designs helped me realize what I was drawn to and what was true to me.

DGG: What are your goals for Gabriella Gonzales over the next year working at DGG's Fashion Incubator?

GG: My goal is that my company will grow with the help from the Incubator. When I started I wanted to have a more polished meeting place, and central location for my business, I wanted to be able to grow my team. I wanted to be mentored by professionals in my industry to help me move along the projects I wanted to do. With saying all this, I know my business has grown because all of these things have happened. I was able to see where I was on the right track and where I needed assistance. It is a great feeling to see my company’s need and being able to fulfill it in real ways. There are times as a startup owner that you may feel stuck and getting unstuck and moving forward is wonderful.

DGG: If you could dress anyone in your collection, who would it be and why?

GG: There are quite a few people I would like to dress in my collection. If I had to pick just two people, I would pick Gina Rodriguez and David Beckham. They encompass the look of the brand I am creating.

DGG: What is your favorite local boutique?

GG: My favorite local boutique is Gentlemen’s Consignment. They have a lot of neat resell finds for men and my very own bow tie designs! Gentlemen’s Consignment is in Royal Oak on Washington Street.

DGG: Describe your style.

GG: My style is similar to my brand. I tend to mix vintage tastes with current trends.

DGG: How do you take your coffee?

GG: I take my coffee with two creams and two sugars.

DGG: Tory Burch or Michael Kors?

GG: Tory Burch. I like both styles but I enjoyed learning about Tory Burch’s entrepreneurial journey and the blossoming of her brand.

DGG: Pants or skirts?

GG: It depends on the day and my mood. I am not biased to either. When I wear pants I am on the go and more business oriented. Days when I wear skirts I feel more laid-back, playful, and fancy. 

On The Town: Renowned Fashion and Accessories Designer Gives Free Lecture in Detroit

We all know College for Creative Studies has recently introduced its Fashion Accessories Design program in partnership with Shinola. In anticipation of the program kicking off in the fall, CCS is hosting an exciting and free lecture with renowned fashion accessories and footwear designer Aki Choklat at 6 p.m. on Thursday, April 30.

Aki holds an impressive resume, starting with receiving his Master’s degree from the Royal College of Art in London and now shares his life between London and Florence. Working at all levels of the fashion industry from design to production and his schooling has prepared him for designing his eponymous label, and also as a Design Consultant for various international brands. Currently, Aki is the Creative Director for London-based trend agency trendstop.com, and is the author of many design books. A multidisciplinary approach to learning that incorporates creativity, academics and inspiration from daily life is something in which Aki believes and practices.

During the lecture, Aki will share inspiring design stories from his travels across the world and discuss his perspective on craft, luxury and design. His academic works have spanned from design lecturer roles at the D Montfort University, Cordwainers and London College of Fashion, to his most recent academic roles as a course leader in Florence. Fortunately for Detroit, he has flown across the pond to come to CCS and share his knowledge and experiences with us.

The lecture is held at CCS’s Wenell W. Anderson Jr. Auditorium in the Walter B. Ford II Building at 201 E. Kirby, in Detroit. Again, the lecture is free to attend, but RSVPs are encouraged. 

Local Designer Series: Michigan Designer Incorporates Laser Cutting into Handbag Collection

Devon Stonebrook is a Michigan native who moved to Austin, Texas (good move for the winter, am I right?) to work for a laser-cutting studio. After learning all about the laser-cutting process, she decided to use that knowledge to create her own niche accessories collection. Read all about how she got her start, and how some of her best advice came from her mother, Deanna Swisher, who also happens to be one of the mentors of DG3’s incubator.

DG3: Tell us about yourself, Devon.

Devon Stonebrook: I design laser cut accessories through a line that I recently launched called CALmax. After I graduated from the Taubman School of Architecture at the University of Michigan, I moved to Austin, Texas, where I began working for a laser-cutting studio called MakeATX. Motivated by the capabilities of laser cutting, I began prototyping handbags that incorporated hard materials and unique construction methods. As I carved out a niche for laser cut accessory design, I versed myself in the conventions of leather craft and fashion sewing to help broaden my design tactics. My accessory line, CALmax, features bags, wallets and belts that explore material intrigue digital fabrication.

DG3: How did you start CALMax?

DS: I formed my business, Calibrated Maximalist, LLC, and registered CALmax as its assumed name, last November when I launched my online store and first introduced my products to the public. I came up with the idea of CALmax, The Calibrated Maximalist, during my senior year of architecture studies at the University of Michigan. While in school, I used laser cutters to design architectural building models, but sought out other uses for the lasers in my spare time. Inspired by the pristine and versatile capabilities of laser cutting, I began prototyping laser-cut acrylic bags and clothing embellishments. I currently operate my CALmax line at a studio in East Austin located nearby the laser studio where I work. I cut, design, prototype, and assemble everything myself, but I plan on hiring help to assemble bags as order demands grow

DG3: Explain the laser cutting process.

DS: Laser cutters allow one to cut extremely precise 2D shapes out of flat material, such as wood, leather, paper or acrylic. Aside from cutting, lasers can also etch images into the surface of materials. All laser cutting stems from digitally drafted vector designs, generally created using programs like Adobe Illustrator or Autocad. The cutting process is quite quick, much quicker than 3D printers, much more precise than hand cutting, and extremely more versatile than dye cutting.

DG3: Where do you sell your products?

DS: So far, my products are sold online through my website and at my East Austin studio, but I do plan on selling at other online shops and brick and mortar stores in the near future. 

DG3: What’s the best and worst advice you have received starting your business?

DS: The best advice definitely came from my mother, Deanna Swisher, who is an attorney that specializes in Fashion Law. She reinforced the importance of well written contracts and the benefits of properly forming a business entity, so that your business expenses and liabilities are clearly separate from your personal expenses and liabilities. It certainly helps to have her at my side! The worst advice I have received is to rush into anything. I think there’s a belief that since fashion fluctuates so quickly, there’s an inherent urgency to launch your line before someone else steals your idea. In retrospect, I think the best ideas take time, preparation, and planning. While gimmicks can be easily stolen, good designs and creative problem solving will stand the test of time. 

DG3: What's the most rewarding thing that has happened at CALMax?

DS: I really enjoyed the feedback that I received from the people who saw my products during the East Austin Studio Tour. It was so great to see people’s eyes light up when they saw my bags, and I loved hearing that they thought the products were so unique. A couple of girls who were lusting over the Warped Grid Bags said they looked like they should be at Opening Ceremony, which was such a compliment! After spending so much time designing these projects solo and under the radar, it was a big treat getting to see people enjoy my work in person.

DG3: Describe your style.

DS: I tend to dress pretty casually day-to-day since my work is pretty hands on. When I’m casual, I like 70’s inspired wear; usually high waisted jeans, fitted knit shirts, and boots or birks. When I’m not getting dirty, I like to keep it monochrome. I love spicing up a monochrome outfit with shiny patent shoes or acrylic belts where I can show a contrast though texture instead of color. I’m really into tan at the moment and other types of neutral flesh tones.

DG3: How do you take your coffee?

DS: Once in the morning with a splash of almond milk; any more than that and I’m wired.

DG3: Tory Burch or Kate Spade?

DS: Neither really, though some of my favorite shoes in high school were a pair of blue velvet Kate Spade flats that I found on a really good deal. Nothing beats blue velvet!

DG3: Clutches or stachels?
DS: Clutches.

Oh, Shop It: Luxury Consignment Boutique Adds New Store in Birmingham

Closet NV has opened a second location! Before the ladies of Closet NV started to sell clothes via brick and mortar, owners Lisa Rosenberg and Robin Bloom first sold items on Ebay for family and friends. “We knew in our hearts that we someday would want to open a luxury designer consignment store, thus came Closet NV,” says Robin. “It was truly a natural fit for the both of us with our knowledge of retail and beautiful designer items.”

DG3 visited the new boutique after a lunch meeting down the street and it was a magical shopping trip. The tops and bottoms are sorted by sizes (great for shoppers who would rather not dig around to find something they might like then realize it’s not the right size), the dresses are clustered by occasion, and handbags and jewelry are plentiful throughout the space.

If you haven’t stopped in yet, or even if you have, Closet NV is having a grand opening at the Birmingham store on Wednesday, January 14. Time and details are still in the works so make sure to ‘like’ Closet NV on Facebook to stay up to date on the particulars of the event. We caught up with Lisa and Robin to learn a little more about their genius idea and talk designer goods:

DG3: You mentioned that all of your items are certified. What does that mean?

Closet NV: We ensure that all of our merchandise is authentic. We have taken classes and worked with different companies that will authenticate our merchandise. We currently utilize a company that will go through a number of protocols and procedures to ensure that the merchandise we receive is genuine. We take pride in being an upscale resale store that houses and sells only veritable merchandise. That is our promise to our loyal shoppers. 

DG3: When people are looking to buy designer handbags, jewelry or apparel online, what are a few things they should look for to keep from getting cheated?

CNV: It is extremely important to know who you are buying from - make sure it is a reputable buyer who would stand behind their goods and also familiarize yourself with the designer and their product. 

DG3: What are the three biggest things to look for when determining if a handbag is real or fake?

CNV: There are more than three things I would look for when it comes to a counterfeit handbag versus an authentic one. I would pay attention to the zipper, the stitching, the material it is made out of, how the logo/ monogram/ designer name is reflected and, of course, the serial number. 

DG3: When it comes to people bringing in items to sell on consignment, what is the most popular designer brand around the metro Detroit area?

CNV: Honestly, there is really not just ONE popular brand. A good deal of Lululemon for active wear, Chanel, Louis Vuitton and Gucci for leather goods, and when it comes to clothing, we see a good amount of Vince, Dolce and Gabbana, Eileen Fisher, Tory Burch and St. Johns. North Face, Burberry and Moncler are popular outerwear items. David Yurman, John Hardy, Chanel and Tory Burch are just a small handful of designer jewelry that comes through our doors as well. 

DG3: When it comes to the shoppers, what are the most desired designer brands around the metro Detroit area?

CNV: Lululemon for everyday wear, Tory Burch and Chanel handbags, Christian Louboutin shoes, and when it comes to clothing it truly varies.

DG3: Anything else you'd like to share about real/fake designer goods?

CNV: We cannot stress enough to know whom you are buying from. We recommend if you have the opportunity, to look and feel the designer item in person, versus buying online blindly. Make sure the owner will stand behind the merchandise and the well being of the customer is at the forefront of their business model.