TradeGala Brand Interview - SlayTwins
TradeGala sits down with Akshi Shah, founder and CEO of SlayTwins to find out more about her young and bold fashion brand
How did SlayTwins come about?I started my career in fashion buying, I worked my way up to Buyer level and it was at this point I thought, yes I want to try and do something for myself, and I actually went for it! I always had wanted to start up something for myself but never quite had the courage to take the plunge. Now I’ve done it I wouldn’t change it for anything!
What is the inspiration behind SlayTwins?I wanted to create a brand that was fun, bold and colourful. Using fun prints and creating styles that anyone, at any age, could wear. We have customers that are in their 20’s to their 50s. Its about mindset over age, anyone can wear SlayTwins.
What differentiates your brand from others in the market?We work with small factories to create our styles. All styles are produced in limited runs. So once its gone its gone.
What is your most popular product and why do you think it's so popular?Our sofia knit midi dresses are our best sellers as they are super comfortable, and made from 100% natural viscose.
What's the biggest challenge you've faced and how did you overcome it?This year has been a particular challenge in terms of this awful outbreak, whilst maintaining our relationships with our supply base, we have had to work together to limit the risk for both parties. In some cases that can be for example by holding up the production of gorgeous new styles, but redesigning the fabric into seasonless styles that can live on past Summer.
Where do you see SlayTwins in the next 5 years?Hopefully we will have increased the awareness of our brand and have also achieved a strong foothold in wholesale distribution to independent shops and boutiques.
What advice would you give to aspiring fashion entrepreneurs?Never think ‘what if’, go for it, otherwise you’ll always be left wondering what you could have achieved! Start with a plan, and launch as soon as you can, by being too precious and trying to second-guess your customers needs, or trying to plan for every eventuality, you’ll take up so much valuable time, when really you could be already testing your product or service and getting true reads straightaway.
Describe SlayTwins in 3 wordsSassy, bold and spirited!