My name is Marlene Solis, I am the founder and designer of sun protective clothing brand, Florescnt. Florescnt aims to further carefree lifestyles for individuals by producing UPF 50+ (SPF of fabrics) products. Throughout the last decade, I have applied my knowledge about fabrics, fit, and production methods to aid in the successful launching of numerous fashion startups before embarking on my fashion venture in early 2020.

After being in this industry for over a decade, I have seen people waste thousands of dollars trying to start brands without any knowledge about terminology or the way fabrics work. Because of this I strongly suggest studying in the field of fashion. My motto is, “fabrics are science.” Take the time to learn the different fabrics. For example, how they’re made, what they’re meant to do, how they drape, how they sew, how they react to outside influences, etc. Don’t rush into designing until you can explain to a manufacturer exactly how your design is supposed to be constructed.

Another key asset that I use daily is the ability to create and maintain professional relationships with vendors and manufacturers. Creating a network of reliable and trustworthy production partners is essential.

Pros

The pros of working as a fashion designer are that you get to use both your creative side and your technical side daily in facing the challenges that come with wearing this hat.

Cons

The con is that fashion is not by any means a cost-effective business to get into, everything adds up, every button, label, and spool of thread cost money, so you end up using your technical side a lot more as a savvy designer.

Photographer – Kelly Johnson

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Set Designer – Laura Vargas

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Florist – Amine Boudour

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Communications Designer – Nahida Hajaj

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3D Artist – Maia McDonald

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