Video assignment 7

Summary

In this insightful discussion, Mikey LeBlanc and Nikki share the story of Holden, a pioneering outerwear brand that merges fashion with functionality. With a focus on high-quality, stylish designs for outdoor sports and urban life, Holden has made waves in the industry by introducing innovations like the first natural fiber waterproof fabric and true denim outerwear. The duo emphasizes their commitment to creativity, originality, and the challenges of staying ahead in a competitive market, while also highlighting how their unique approach has inspired other brands to embrace a more fashion-forward ethos.

Takeaways

• 😀 Mikey LeBlanc emphasizes the blend of fashion and function in snowboarding apparel.
• 😀 The brand Holden aims to innovate outerwear by taking cues from high fashion rather than conventional designs.
• 😀 Nikki, the design manager, highlights the importance of creating unique, ever-evolving designs.
• 😀 Holden was seen as a pioneer in outerwear, influencing competitors to adopt similar styles.
• 😀 The brand focuses on creating garments for a broader age range (18-50), distinguishing itself from competitors who target younger audiences.
• 😀 Holden developed the world's first natural fiber waterproof breathable fabric, which garnered industry recognition.
• 😀 The company is committed to using high-quality materials, such as true cotton denim, in their products.
• 😀 Holden's approach involves strong relationships with vendors to push for new developments in fabric and design.
• 😀 The brand's innovative designs have been well-received in the industry, leading to a trend towards more fashion-forward outerwear.
• 😀 LeBlanc expresses caution regarding design theft and maintains confidentiality in their creative process.

Q & A

What inspired Mikey LeBlanc to start Holden?

Mikey was inspired by his passion for snowboarding and the desire to merge it with stylish, functional outerwear that could be worn in various environments.

How does Holden differentiate itself in the outerwear market?

Holden focuses on high-fashion influences rather than merely following the trends in the outerwear industry, emphasizing style as well as function.

What is unique about the target demographic for Holden's designs?

Holden designs for women aged 18 to 50, in contrast to many competitors who target much younger girls, thus offering a more mature and stylish option.

What significant development did Holden achieve in 2005?

Holden developed the world's first natural fiber waterproof breathable fabric, made from a hemp-polyester mix.

What challenges does Holden face in working with vendors?

Holden finds it increasingly difficult to persuade vendors to develop new materials due to rising costs and the perceived risks of innovation.

How does Holden's approach to design contribute to its innovation?

Holden pushes its manufacturers to explore new developments and ideas, often challenging them to create products that have never been made before.

What are the characteristics of Holden's denim offerings?

Holden's denim is made from true cotton twill that is laminated for waterproofing, aiming to provide high-performance outerwear that also looks like real jeans.

How does Holden respond to design theft or imitation in the industry?

Holden maintains a level of secrecy about its designs and does not distribute catalogs widely, attempting to protect its unique creations from being copied.

What has been the industry reaction to Holden's style and innovations?

The industry has embraced Holden's distinct style, leading to competitors adopting similar fashion-forward approaches in their own lines.

What does Mikey LeBlanc identify as a key part of Holden's business strategy?

Mikey emphasizes that Holden's strategy revolves around creating new designs each year rather than merely reacting to current market trends.