Each week we will be highlighting one of the fabulous emerging designers from Phoenix Fashion Week 2018. This week, meet JC Donaldson, the creator of Being Dapper, dashing lifestyle apparel for the modern man.
Hometown: Arlington TX
First fashion job: I sold high end glasses like Cartier, Tiffany Company, Bvlgari, Prada, Dolce & Gabana and Chanel. I was top 15th in the nation in sales selling 25% of the total volume of the store by myself. I was successful due to my passion for fashion and having a great manager his name was Colby Fuqay.
When did you know you had a passion for fashion: Since I was in high school I have always dressed preppy, I have always been inspired from men’s fashion from the prohibition era through the 60’s.
Person who has impacted your life the most: My mother she is also an artist and started her own graphic design company from the ground up. Her ambition inspired me to become an entrepreneur and designer.
Your biggest fashion accomplishment in your eyes: Being a part of Phoenix Fashion Week, this was something that I have wanted to do for a longtime. And most importantly the knowledge through boot camp that I have gained. The best investment that you can ever make is in yourself.
The biggest obstacle you have overcome: Building strong relationships with manufactures.
A designer who inspires you: Ralph Lauren he started his brand with making ties and eventually his brand evolved into what it is today. He is a contemporary lifestyle brand which captures every dynamic of a man’s life. This is what Being Dapper is striving to achieve.
Favorite quote: “Many of life’s failures are people who did not realize how close they were to success when they gave up” – Thomas Edison
Advice to someone pursuing a career in fashion as a designer: Plan well be persistent, develop a good business strategy build a good team. Don’t let people discourage you and remember your brand won’t be for everybody but it will be for somebody.
How has the Phoenix Fashion Week #DesignerBootcamp impacted your brand? It helped me build a strong foundation of best practices for my company. Pointing out what is missing and giving me direction on how to grow my company.
Favorite piece you have ever designed: The original Nahbro
If you would like to attend Phoenix Fashion Week 2018, you can purchase tickets here: eventbrite.com. Use promo code FABAZ for a $20 gift card good towards any seat (not applicable towards standing room tickets).
Phoenix Fashion Week 2018 Emerging Designer Lineup
Thursday, Oct. 18 (Lifestyle):
Activ Intimates
Nani Swimwear
Rockin Street Wear
WVSH
Friday, Oct. 19 (Contemporary):
Being Dapper
Cody Chris Collection
MollyKate Cline
SiSi Aduke
Saturday, Oct. 20 (Ready to Wear):
Amanda Casarez
Chau Chic Designs
Orlando Dugi
Zelenco
What caught my eye is the Persian black shirt. That image is so captivating. Dapper collection – the sly fox with the jacket – we get it we live in Arizona. Keep up the great designs.