In this compelling episode of the Beyond the Blockchain Podcast, Manny Jackson, the visionary founder of Thread, unveils a remarkable journey that seamlessly blends his passion for fashion and mental health. From overcoming personal challenges to establishing a brand that transcends conventional boundaries, Manny's story is one of resilience, creativity, and a commitment to making a positive impact.
Drawing Inspiration from Adversity:
Manny's inspiration for delving into the world of fashion stems from his experiences with bullying and fighting. These challenges became the catalyst for his desire to express himself through clothing, instilling in him a newfound confidence that laid the foundation for his journey.
Fashion as a Form of Expression:
The speaker's foray into the fashion world commenced with a simple yet powerful motivation – to look fashionable and gain respect from peers. This led to the entrepreneurial spirit of buying and selling clothes, transforming fashion from a personal interest into a career path.
Harmony of Music Culture and Design:
The intersection of music culture, especially hip hop, plays a pivotal role in shaping Thread's designs and overall aesthetic. The fusion of passion for music with fashion creates a unique identity for the clothing brand, resonating with a diverse audience.
From Hobby to Industry Recognition:
What started as a high school hobby gained industry recognition when a friend sold Thread's designs in a store. This turning point marked the realization that the brand had significant potential in the competitive clothing industry.
Thread's evolution began with hand-painting clothes and later expanded into a full-fledged pursuit of fashion. Encouragement from a family member, who recognized Manny's talent and knowledge of textiles, fueled the brand's growth.
Zen's Closet and Business Expansion:
The establishment of Zen's Closet, a men's style house offering styling services and facilitating stylists for photo shoots, propelled Thread's growth. The strategic move not only expanded the brand's reach but also solidified its position in the dynamic world of fashion.
Abstract Apparel to In-House Brand:
Starting as a quality abstract apparel brand, Thread later evolved into becoming the in-house brand for The Gents Closet, marking a significant milestone in the brand's trajectory.
The Subliminal Thread Logo:
Thread's logo, featuring a sewing machine with a thread going through it, is a testament to the brand's attention to detail. Each element holds a specific meaning, reflecting Thread's commitment to storytelling even in the minutest aspects of its brand identity.
Sustainability and Storytelling:
Thread's dedication to sustainability is exemplified through an upcoming fashion exhibition. This showcase will feature pieces that have undergone three different life phases, emphasizing sustainability and storytelling through clothing.
The brand is built on five pillars – community, education, innovation, creativity, and sustainability. These pillars underscore Thread's core values, focusing on giving back, providing education, embracing innovation and creativity, and promoting sustainability.
Collaborations and Event Showcase:
Thread's forward-thinking approach is reflected in collaborations with 10 different artists. These collaborations will result in collections centered around the mental health movement and a celebration of "dope dads." The collections will be showcased at a special event on January 26, 2024, at the Art Department in West Hollywood, with both in-person and virtual attendance options.
Manny emphasizes the importance of consistency and discipline for entrepreneurs in the fashion space. He encourages the spirit of perseverance, highlighting that the journey of being consistent and persistent is what ultimately leads to success.
Embark on this journey with Thread