Veekee James, a popular fashion designer, has shared valuable guidance for aspiring and emerging fashion designers on effectively managing their own brands.
On May 14, 2024, she shared a post on Instagram where she provided a comprehensive guide for up-and-coming designers on safeguarding their brand.
She wrote, “I don’t know anything about the issue going around on social media so I can’t really speak on it! Here’s my advise as someone who has been there done that.”
James advised aspiring designers to steer clear of situations where they are forced to decide between receiving payment for their work or receiving acknowledgment through a social media post.
“Once anyone comes to you with the ‘Do you want money or tag’ phrase, You better run! I’ve had so many of your faves, both in this country and abroad, use that phrase with me and that was it! Today some of these people will give anything to be in my piece! No cap. It just shows no respect or regard for your brand! Once you allow that, it confirms the fact that your brand has no value whatsoever!”
The designer recommended that other designers make sure that celebrities have a clear understanding of the values associated with their brands.
She also said “Be wise! Don’t let money come first before the important things! Sacrifice in business is a must! As long as you have made glaring the values of your brand, be ready to collaborate sometimes only with celebs who respect you as well! Never forget that it’s a win win for you and the celeb! No one is doing you a favour!”
She stressed the significance of staying true to one’s beliefs and cautioned against constantly seeking attention from famous customers.
She said “Don’t be desperate to be known through a person! You must know that only God is the LIFTER of Men! He will use only the people He chooses to lift you! Don’t try to do what only God can do for your brand! Don’t expect publicity from every celebrity and make desperate decisions without thinking!”
“If you want to be a fashion designer, go and research the true meaning of being a designer! So that you don’t end up being a tailor parading him or herself as a designer! If you are a designer, do the work of a designer!” she added.
