No matter how big the reward, starting a business is a risk. Even so, we heart go-getters who embrace their entrepreneurial spirit — especially here in the Windy City. The latest start-up that we're flipping over is designed to give aspiring designers an opportunity to sell their wares, while providing consumers like you awesome clothing at an affordable price (nice!).
Launching this past Monday, Stock Manufacturing Co. is the brainchild of five dudes with a bevy of fashion experience between them. Apparel manufacturer Areill Ives is the man with the factory, who works in tandem with Mike Morarity and Tim Tierney, owners and designers of menswear line Vagrant Nobility, and Jim Snediker and Jason Morgan, founders of indie shopping site, Left of Trend.
AdvertisementADVERTISEMENT
The premise is simple: Every couple of weeks, the site showcases a pre-sale of one sample from an up-and-coming designer's collection (that the company seeks out), making sure to offer it at an affordable price. Next, you get to vote on whether or not it will be put into production. If the ratings are high enough, Stock will then manufacture the item in its Chicago factory (read: no start-up cost for the designer) and then ship the goods directly to the consumer — free of charge. Along with supporting the creations of local designers, Stock also sells its own jackets, shirts, bow ties, pocket squares, and jackets, which you may have already seen for sale at Dose Market.
This adorable silk de chine blouse (pictured, $95) with a hand-drawn print was inspired after designer Kristine Campbell's very own vintage Kodak Tourist folding camera. Go dressy by tucking it into a skirt, or more casual by removing the detachable bow and wearing it untucked with a pair of jeans. If you want to get a closer look at this number, it's now available online. But don't wait too long. With a limited stock available, it's here today and gone tomorrow — until the next best design comes through, that is.
Photo: Courtesy of Stock Manufacturing Co.