Fashion Leaders Series: Building a Fashion Business in Saskatchewan with Dean Renwick
Join Jacqueline for this instalment of our SFA Fashion Leaders Series with our guest, and SFA Board Member, Dean Renwick!
Dean Renwick is the owner of Dean Renwick Design Studio based in Regina, SK. Being in fashion over 30 years, Dean knows the in’s and out’s of becoming a designer, finding your passion, personal niche, and being a business owner.
Since COVID19 government safety regulations were put in place the change in the way the future looks for all Canadians changed drastically. Dean feeling the impact on his own business, found a way through the selfless act of giving back to the community found how to survive through the pandemic.
In Dean Renwick’s interview, the topic “Building a Fashion Business in Saskatchewan” was explored through the toughest times, and the best of times.
Check out the interview video, as well as a summary of Dean Renwick’s key points below!
Key Points
Invest in Yourself
Know your worth. Do not overvalue either. Just starting out? Your stuff is OK, but don’t be charging $700 like it’s couture. If you want to charge $700 you need to put in the time to have the skills and knowledge to create a $700 piece. Charge what you're skill set is worth and as you grow your knowledge your finances will grow.
If you are someone who's just starting up in the industry, or maybe taking the next step with an important internship, remember that whatever you gotta do you gotta do, put in the time and the grind. It will be tough. You will need to learn the hard way sometimes. Stick with it, pick up pins off the floor if you are told to pick up pins, and at the end of the day take the wisdom you gained and apply it.
Designing is more than clothes. Think about not only your design, but WHO you want to wear your pieces, who you are designing for. How does your design match their personality and style to give an overall look you are trying to achieve. It took Dean building his own collection and not only custom peices to discover his brand of refined pieces of clean lines, taylored finishings, and a classic represntation of a professional woman.
Community
Giving back selflessly to the community in a time of need showed the community would also give back. Seeing this many times over, knowing your intent will guide you through the grey times.
Mentorships and collaboration are an important part of growing and expanding your skillset and knowledge.
Join an organization or assocation, be in touch with other like minded individuals, grow your network, skills, and knowledge.
“Know your worth. Do not overvalue either. Charge what your skill set is worth and as you grow your knowledge your finances will grow!”
Check out the full interview to learn more about Dean Renwick’s key points!
Dean Renwick Design Studio kiosk is open at the Cornwall Centre. There will be stylish and fashionable masks for everyone, children, teens and adults. Keeping the citizens of our great city safe and strong. Find them at the Cornwall Center 11 am to 6 pm daily.
For more information, and to grab your own locally designed mask, visit Dean’s website!