SUMMARY
My project focuses on bringing small designers to smaller cities where in-person access to cool brands is limited. I created Style in Transit, a curation service partnering with NYC designers and local boutiques to offer three-month pop-up experiences. We collaborate with four designers a year, handling inventory and advertising, while designers curate their spaces and stores provide the venue. For my prototype, I partnered with Phoenix General, an indie boutique in my hometown of Phoenix, AZ, known for local brands and community events—making them the perfect fit.
challenge
I knew that there was an opportunity for expansion to smaller cities. Being from a city like Phoenix, where the current retail options are much more mainstream, finding cool brands was and being able to shop them IRL was almost impossible. Out of everyone I surveyed, only 12.5% were completely satisfied by the current offerings. Designers also struggle with expanding their brand, since every city's demographic is significantly different, and renting a space is expensive. During my research, I looked at pop-ups as a possible solution, but landed on collaboration with existing stores since their place in the community can draw more people in.
Outcome
Style in Transit is designed to bridge the gaps between designers and new markets. Through partnering with stores that are trusted in their respective communities, we help people explore new brands. Designers also get a low cost, simple way to expand their products to new markets.
MEET THE Designers:
