Busy Bee: Detroit Garment Group Expands Its Fashion Incubator Offerings To Better Support Detroit’s Fashion Community

We have exciting news! Detroit Garment Group is now servicing a larger segment of Detroit’s fashion community by offering additional services in its year-old fashion incubator based in TechTown in Detroit. The DGG Fashion Incubator was created to assist Detroit’s burgeoning class of fashion professionals with learning how to be successful entrepreneurs while building their fashion collections and is one of many educational programs presented by the five year-old non-profit organization whose mission is to cultivate education and economic development opportunities for Michigan's fashion community.

Along with offering office and production space, industrial sewing machines, high-end design technology, a mailing address, and 24-hour access, the incubator, which previously serviced mainly the sewing production needs of fashion designers, has now expanded to include ancillary services that cater not only to fashion designers, but other industry professionals such as photographers, bloggers and fashion reps. New services include a photography and design studio with capabilities for conducting full product and fashion photo shoots, as well as onsite photography editing.

"We're retooling the DGG Fashion Incubator to be more inclusive for fashion professionals," said Lindsey Alexander, Executive Director of Detroit Garment Group. "By adding backdrops for photographers, utilizing the desk space differently and only keeping the sewing machines used most, we are able to welcome many different fashion professionals into our space, and create an opportunity for better networking and potential collaborations within the community."

DGG is now accepting new incubator residents, along with hourly, half day and full day studio rentals to utilize either the industrial sewing machines or photography equipment. To learn more about the incubator and other programs such DGG’s annual FashionSpeak conference or Industrial Sewing Certificate Program, contact Lindsey Alexander at lindsey@detroitgarmentgroup.org.

Oh, Shop It: DGG Showroom To Open to Buyers & Boutique Owners

The Entrepreneurs-in-Residence of the DGG Fashion Incubator have been working tirelessly to create a collection for Detroit Garment Group's inaugural Showroom.

Retailers interested in placing orders with talented, local fashion designers, or would even just like to see what's out there to potentially feature local designers in your store next season, are asked to contact lindsey@detroitgarmentgroup.org to make an appointment for the event, taking place October 26, from 10:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. at TechTown, 440 Burroughs St., Detroit, MI 48202. 

Below are representative images of each designer's collection, and retailers may specify if you would like to meet with individual designers or would prefer to browse all the collections. Seven collections will be featured.

The DGG Fashion Incuabator launched in November 2015. During that tme, vetted Michigan fashion designers have built their businesses while building their collections, utilizing all the services of the incubator, including industrial sewing machines, cutting table, digitizer and plotter, nine mentors (in every business expertise from legal and finance to sales and marketing), and monthly workshops that focus on the business of fashion.

Oh, Shop It: A Hands-Free, Luxury Leather Bag

Ever thought you could have a beautiful, luxury leather bag that is hands free? Well now you can, thanks to Left-Handed Branded.

The Mula is the perfect everyday bag that will meet your needs and be entirely conventional. You can use it for groceries or work/school, and it works as a bike bag. The great thing is, is that it's unisex. Another important thing with this bag, is that it's extremely comfortable and provides high performance and durability. There are a few different options for any taste: black canvas, denim fabric, and brown and black leather.

Each bag is offered in a small, medium or large size, but the Kickstarter size is medium, suitable for men and women.

As of August 23, you can pledge your support to the Mula bag via Kickstarter. If you help back the bag, you can get many different early bird specials, as well as receiving the bag before anyone else! Make sure to get them before they're gone because they are not retail prices. Here's what you can get based on your donation:

• $5 - Sewn Postcard
• $35 - 35mm Limited Edition Ankle Strap
• $40 - Avocado Vegan Wallet
• $40 - Avocado Leather Wallet
• $49 - Limited Edition Ankle Strap and Bandana
• $169 - Denim Saddlebag *Limited Quantity Available - Early Bird
• $189 - Denim Saddlebag *Kickstarter Exclusive
• $220 - Canvas Saddlebag *Limited Quantity Available - Early Bird
• $250 - Canvas Saddlebag *Kickstarter Exclusive
• $500 - Leather Saddlebag *Limited Quantity Available - Early Bird
• $550 - The Mula Leather *Limited Quantity Available - Early Bird
• $595 - The Mula Leather *Kickstarter Exclusive (BEST DEAL - price is estimated to be $1,250)

You definitely don't want to miss out on these incredible deals, so donate today! For more information on Left-Handed Branded, click here, and for more information on the Mula and Kickstarter, click here.

So You Want To Start A Business: The DGG Fashion Incubator

As you all know, we have a Fashion Incubator at TechTown for serious Michigan-based fashion entrepreneurs at high-skill levels to create collections, with access to industrial machinery and design software, plus monthly educational workshops and mentors for guidance in areas crucial to the success of a fashion brand. This is not for everyone. This is for the doers. This is for the designer who has replaced that title with entrepreneur.  This is for some one who can take resources and utilize them to the fullest extent. This is for those who work hard and dream big. This is for the person who doesn't believe in luck and doesn't make excuses. This is for those who need their brand to succeed as much as they need to breathe.

Because Michigan fashion students don't graduate, stay in the state and get a job at a design house to learn how a business is run, they typically start a business being an expert in their craft but not an expert in business. The greatest need for Detroit's fashion community is business-related education. These designers graduate only knowing how to work for others, but not themselves, and they can design well, but don't know what it takes to become an entrepreneur. The DGG Fashion Incubator, which can host up to ten designers at a time, will give the Entrepreneurs in Residence (EIR) the resources overcome all of those barriers, so they can succeed at creating their own brand and in the fashion industry.

Resources for the EIRs include mentorship and business workshops. Our mentors include: Michelle Roberts for fashion business, Rita Hillmen for small business, Deanna Swisher for legal, Pamela Hartman for finance, Marcy Cyburt for sales, Carlotta Tutt Holloway for marketing, Karen MacDonald-Basile for public relations, Rebecca Moore for software and Christian Birky for sustainability. Our workshops are aimed around the theme, "So You Want To Start a Business." Our remaining workshops are: July 19, Creating a Lookbook/Line Sheet, August 16, Going to Tradeshows and Working with Buyers, September 20, Understanding Your Manufacturing Cycle and October 18, Raising Awareness for Your Brand. Past workshops have been Financing Your Business: What to Expect When You're Investing, Supply Chain Sourcing and Creating Your Tech Pack.

We are opening up the EIR program year-round, if there are any vacancies. To apply, you don't need to have a clothing company, your company just needs to be fashion related. This is a great opportunity because there aren't many places in Detroit where you can pay $250/month to rent a space that gives you mentorship, free workshops, sewing machines and design software to help grow your business.

For more information, head here.

Do It: This Weekend's Style, Beauty and Fashion Events That are Not to Be Missed

This weekend is full of fun and fashionable things to do, so if you're itching to hit the town, these events will keep you busy.

Image from Boswell

Hour Detroit's Best of Detroit Party | Friday, June 24
Hour Detroit will be bringing the best of Detroit together at its 11th annual Best of Detroit party. From 7 p.m. to midnight, enjoy an evening of amazing hors d'oeuvres and cocktails from over 30 restaurants and phenomenal entertainment. This is all happening at MotorCity Casino Hotel. The event showcases the best restaurants, style, bars and entertainment as voted by Hour Detroit's readers in its 17th annual poll. You can purchase tickets here.

MotorCity Casino Hotel is located at 2901 Grand River Ave., in Detroit.


DGG Fashion Incubator Pop-Up Shop | Friday, June 24
If you haven't seen our fashion incubator, now's your chance. Not only will you be able to get an inside look at where our fabulous entrepreneurs-in-residence work, but you'll also be able to shop great, locally designed items from them. Designers include Gabriella Gonzales, Jesse Jane and more! We're located at TechTown, so parking is free and can be found directly on the street, next to the building or in the larger lot at the corner of Amsterdam and Cass. Please sign in when you arrive, and then head up to floor 3, suite 390. Signs will be there to guide you. This goes from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

TechTown is located at 440 Burroughs St., in Detroit.


If I Must - Photography by Boswell | Saturday, June 25
Boswell is an internationally recognized photographer specializing in fashion, beauty and portraiture. This local photographer has worked all over the world, but will be highlighting his life in Paris at the Robert Kidd Gallery in Birmingham. Starting at 6 p.m., the opening reception, for his newest gallery, If I Must, depicts very modern and gritty Parisian architecture, fashion and portraits. No You Can't, an erotic capsule collection, will also be featured. The event starts at 6 p.m. and will be held at Robert Kidd Gallery.

Robert Kidd Gallery is located at 107 Townsend St., in Birmingham.


Official Grand Opening | Saturday, June 25
African Fabrics and Fashions will be having their grand opening from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. Make sure to stop by for a storewide discount.

African Fabrics and Fashions is located at 8126 W 9 Mile Rd., in Oak Park.


Dolce Moda Grand Opening | Saturday, June 25
Celebrate Dolce Moda's grand opening with complimentary cocktails and appetizers provided by Zim's Vodka and Social Kitchen. There will be a live DJ and exotic cars brought by M1 Concourse. Partial proceeds from sales in store will be donated to Danialle Karmanos' Work It Out. You can RSVP at info@dolcemoda.com or 248-399-6200.

Dolce Moda is located at 323 E Maple, in Birmingham. 


The Powerful Women's Weekend 2016 | Saturday, June 25 through Sunday, June 26
Whether you're a woman trailblazing corporate America or a trend-setting entrepreneur, this is the conference for you. The Powerful Women's weekend is known worldwide for its ability to to instill confidence plus inspire personal and professional development. This event will be held at The Henry, Autograph Collection. Curriculum will include branding empowerment, financial literacy, negotiating your worth, living authentically and many more brilliant topics. There will also be a keynote speaker leaving everyone with a memorable experience. All women will be gifted with tote bags with amazing products, receive professional headshots and enjoy tasty refreshments. You'll be able to connect with over 100 like-minded individuals, as well as move into the direction of your dreams. For more information, click here.

The Henry, Autograph Collection is located at 300 Town Center Dr., in Dearborn.

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. 

Oh, Shop It: Music-Influenced Clothing Brand Debuts First Men’s Winter Collection

First Class Committee, created by fashion designer Terrance Jones, who also happens to be a designer-in-residence at the DGG's Fashion Incubator, is making its debut in Detroit with a men's winter collection.

“The main reason why I created this clothing line is so the middle class could be able to express their sense of fashion just like the way the first class could, hence the name of the company,” says Jones. “Not only do I want people to be able to express themselves by wearing my clothes, I want them to be able to have the utmost confidence and live the first class lifestyle when they wear my clothes.”

Jones cuts out the middle man by designing and sewing all of the products himself, which allows him to sell First Class Committee at a more affordable price point, but keeps the quality of the product at the level of something that's a little more high end. Also, the in-house designing and sewing of the product allows the company to easily adapt to changing fashion trends and to keep his clothes unique.

“Living in cities such as Detroit, Houston, and Austin gave me an opportunity to be surrounded by all sorts of fashion that have been inspired by the music these cities have created. I took advantage of that and mixed all of my favorite styles into one to create my own style,” says Terrance Jones.

The men's winter collection consists of long-sleeve shirts, sweaters, and hoodies within the $45 to $80 price range, and is available for purchase at the official online store at www.firstclasscommittee.com.

Local Designer Series: Accounting and Finance Major Takes a Risk into the World of Design

Local designer started school looking to pursue a career in the world of finance, but working in retail ignited her love of clothing and her desire to create. Once she started her family, she decided that she needed to work at her dream job to take it to the next level. And, she is doing just that.

DGG: Tell us about yourself, Jesse.

Jesse Harrell: Born and raised in Detroit, I am a self taught designer and mother of a 4-year-old son. I first fell in love with fashion while attending Oakland University where I was pursuing a degree in Accounting and Finance. After obtaining a seasonal employee position at a popular retail store in the area, it was there where I discovered my true love for fashion. After changing schools and changing majors I received some classical training at Wayne State University, however, I became a mom early in my studies, propelling me to continue to build my skills and techniques on my own while raising my son full time.

DGG: Tell us about the Jesse Jane, LLC.

JH: Styles by Jesse Jane LLC, was created based off the demand for women who wanted to look edgy, yet sophisticated. For women who love fashion and adore the clothing that comes the runways each season, but lives a real life and needs a wardrobe that can fit her lifestyle. For the woman who wants clothing designed specifically for her. This is why a big part of this business is Styling Services for our JANES.

Some of the services that Jesse Jane provides are:

-“JANE on the Go” Pieces 

These are the One of a Kind Ready to Wear Pieces that are always available to sell. These “Jane on the Go” pieces range from XS-XXL for women. These pieces are one-of-a kind pieces, meaning no two garments are ever the same. We believe in standing out and being unique, so having two “JANE’s” in the same outfit could be never logical in our world. These pieces are constructed by hand from pattern drafting to the actual construction and even fabric manipulation by Jesse Jane herself. Couture Edgy Ready to Wear Clothing.

-Styling Services

Custom Orders: These are garments that are specific for a certain occasion.

Personal Styling for JANES: This is when a client decides she wants to become a “JANE”. When speaking on “JANE “Status, she receives the following accommodations.

~ Email updates of upcoming events, new arrivals, and special offers.

~A mini collection for both Fall/Winter and Spring/Summer of 5-7 pieces will be constructed and designed around the lifestyle of the JANE and mixed with the aesthetic of Jesse Jane. The collections will be specifically and exclusively designed for the Jane in question.  The Jane will be allowed to select 5 out of the 7 pieces per collection and allowed to purchase other garments if desired.

DGG: What is the Jesse Jane, LLC design aesthetic?

JH: The aesthetic behind Jesse Jane is edgy yet sophisticated, very graphic in color and technique yet very classic in silhouette. So, yes you may see a hand painted graffiti inspired shirt but the shape is very classic and able to wear with a pair of jeans or with a nice blazer and to the office. Here at Styles by Jesse Jane we are more concerned with building you a wardrobe instead of just one custom pieces; the quality of our JANES and not necessarily the quantity of JANES is our biggest concern.

DGG: What are your goals for Jesse Jane, LLC over the next year working at DGG's Fashion Incubator?

JH: While working at the Incubator I plan to continue to learn and grow my business, continue to build my clientele, and with the help of the DGG it will have me ready for the next level, which will be opening up my own showroom in the heart of the city.

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

JH: The best advice I have ever received when it comes to not only being a designer but by being an entrepreneurs is to always stay true to your designs and vision, and nothing great happens overnight. Worst Advice that I have received was that it would be easy.

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

JH: A hardship that I had to overcome was finding out exactly how I wanted present myself and the present my brand.

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

JH: I can not wait for the day where I can dress Kelly Osbourne in some of my clothes. I love her style, and I truly believe that she embodies everything that a JANE.

DGG: Describe your style.

JH: My style is very edgy yet classy. On any given day you can catch me wearing my black leather riding boots, my Jesse Jane slim fit pants, and black and white studded Jesse Jane top, paired with jewelry, a pop of color on the lip and my leather and denim jacket, and some sort of caffeine in my hand. Black is my happy color, and I wear it very often

DGG: How do you take your coffee?

JH: I start every day with a freshly brewed cup of Starbucks Veranda mixed with caramel cream, sugar, and if it’s a special day a dollop of whip cream.

DGG: Altuzarra or 3.1 Phillip Lim?

JH: Altuzarra hands down, I love the edgy yet classy side to the pieces. From the color pallets to the way the clothes sit on the models I am such a huge fan.

DGG: Simple or statement necklaces?

JH: Every woman should have a combination of both in their collection. I have pieces as simple as a necklace with just a chain and the evil eye on it, to pieces that I get custom made from a local jewelry designer, Bonnie's Boutiques, for my runway pieces.