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Natalie Hicks, a native of Detroit, has been able to create her legacy thanks to her 15-year-long career working in the fashion industry. From working in technical design to production management, she gained the needed experience and knowledge to thrive in the workplace. When it comes to how she established VISN Studio, an apparel development studio that she owns in Chicago, she noted that it’s been a process, yet successful.Â
Advisor.: “What made you want to pursue a career in fashion?”
Natalie: “I’ve always been super artistic, into drawing and painting as a kid, and I couldn’t wait to go shopping when I became a teenager. My older sister and her friends — who were about 16 — would see my sketches and tell me why they wished I could make them because they wanted to wear those outfits. From that point on, fashion was my only career path. I learned how to sew formally in high school from my teacher — Mrs. Caldwell — who encouraged my interest and helped me sew my own prom gown. During college, I created a few more prom gowns as a side hustle.”
Advisor: “You are based out in Chicago. Can you elaborate on how the fashion scene is in the area, specifically for the black community? Also, were you able to find your voice as a black woman?”
Natalie: “I attended design school in Chicago over a decade ago. At that time, the fashion scene was quite segregated. Today, the Chicago fashion scene has evolved into distinct sectors. I see younger black designers launching lines and making a significant impact. These Chicago designers are harnessing the power of social media to build not just a local community, but one with national and global reach. The black design community of Chicago is growing stronger and more connected. As for finding my voice as a black woman, it’s been a journey. Cities I’ve lived in — Chicago, Brooklyn, Oakland, and my hometown of Detroit — have played a crucial role in shaping my identity and career. I’ve been able to carve out my niche and create a stable job for myself.”
Advisor: “Tell us about VISN Studio. How did the studio come about, what was your vision, and how did you manage to succeed with the completion of the studio?”
Natalie: “Visn Studio is an apparel development studio based in Chicago, IL. We partner with designers, creators, and inventors to bring new apparel products to market. Over the years, I noticed a rise in people wanting to turn their design ideas into reality. However, wholesale vendors and factories weren’t lowering their minimum order quantities to feasible levels for small and independent designers. I established Visn Studio to give these aspiring designers a chance to break into the industry without these barriers. We have no minimums and offer competitive pricing. At Visn Studio, we work with intentional designers prioritizing sustainability, quality, and innovation.”
Advisor: “What is the significant purpose of VISN Made?”
Natalie: “Visn MADE is a workforce development program designed for young adults aged 18-24. I established Visn MADE as my small stand against the unethical labor practices prevalent in the fashion industry. MADE has not launched yet (hopefully in fall 2024), but the plan is to pay our participants to be trained to work in the Visn Studio factory while simultaneously receiving programming and resources to find steady employment, stay out of the justice system, and gain confidence and dignity.”
Advisor: “Your work has been featured in many brands such as Free People to Nordstrom. Do you plan on collaborating with any other brands in the future?”
Natalie: “I’m always a lover of small and emerging brands, so that’s who I usually focus on. I don’t have any solid plans to collaborate with bigger brands at the moment. However, I do have something exciting under my sleeve that involves collaborating on custom merch designs for black-owned businesses. It’s an exciting project that aligns with my passion for supporting and uplifting our community.”
Advisor: “Do you have any advice for those wanting to pursue a similar career?”
Natalie: “My advice to anyone starting a career in apparel production would be to attend industry trade shows — whether fabric shows or apparel shows — to stay updated on trends. These events are crucial for getting connected and learning about wholesale pricing for fabric, materials, and factories. Additionally, join a local or national fashion organization. The production and development side of the business relies heavily on word of mouth. Building a network through these organizations can open doors and provide valuable industry rights.Â
Lastly, be discerning about who you choose to work with. Don’t accept projects out of desperation. It’s important to align yourself with clients and projects that match your values and long-term goals. By being selective, you ensure that you avoid burnout and frustration, maintain your standards, and build a portfolio that truly reflects your capabilities and vision.”
Style Black culture has always influenced the majority of the fashion trends and scopes that are popular in this day and age. Looking forward, now Read More
Style Black culture has always influenced the majority of the fashion trends and scopes that are popular in this day and age. Looking forward, now Read More
Style Black culture has always influenced the majority of the fashion trends and scopes that are popular in this day and age. Looking forward, now Read More
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