Most new fashion brands fail not because of poor products but because they launch without a clear story. In this episode of Thread Equity, Mark and James break down how they developed clarity around what both Barnfield and Peace stood for, long before the first clothing samples existed. From using #AI to create emotionally charged imagery to carefully crafting a manifesto that anchors every design decision, this episode reveals why clarity of message matters more than rushing to market.Whether you're a creative starting your own label or a founder trying to future-proof your brand, this conversation explores the power of narrative, the balance between art and commerce, and how to create a brand that resonates deeply and lasts. You'll hear honest takes on using AI without losing your soul, how to build audience trust before a single product is sold, and why patience might just be your biggest asset.#brandstorytelling

#menswear

#buildinpublic

In this episode of Thread Equity, Mark opens up about a tough moment: receiving a clothing sample that came back three sizes too big - just days before press meetings in London. It’s a raw, honest conversation about managing emotions, recalibrating expectations, and pushing through the uncertainty that comes with launching a premium menswear brand. If you've ever felt overwhelmed by the weight of your own ambition, this one will hit home.Whether you're building your own clothing brand, working on menswear product development, or simply fascinated by the behind-the-scenes grind of fashion entrepreneurship, this episode offers real insight into the emotional and practical challenges of bringing luxury garments to life. It's a must-watch for fashion startup founders and anyone navigating the complexities of product, press, and personal growth all at once.#menswear #fashionentrepreneur #clothingbrand #britishdesign

Managing a production process sounds simple—until you run into real-world challenges. In this episode, we dive into the frustrating yet common struggles of business communication, particularly when dealing with suppliers, manufacturers, and international teams. From delays that could have been avoided to cultural nuances that impact efficiency, we break down what really goes wrong behind the scenes.Join us as we discuss personal experiences, industry insights, and practical solutions for improving business relationships. Whether you're an entrepreneur, creative, or business owner, this episode will give you a fresh perspective on the importance of clear and honest communication. Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more real-world business insights!#podcast #clothingbrandstartup #fashionentrepreneur #brandbuilding #startupjourney #entrepreneurlife #smallbusiness #behindthescenes#fashiondesign #businessgrowth#socialmediamarketing#fashion#menswear#entrepreneur

If there's one thing that we've learnt in our journey's to build clothing brands, it's that everything takes longer than expected. Whether it's issues with patterns, fabrics, factories or logistics, there are so many moving parts to a clothing brand that it only takes one link in the chain to come undone to cause delays that push deliveries back by months...sometimes years. We catch up after a 3 month break to find that although both of us feel like progress has been slow, there has at least been progress. #podcast #clothingbrandstartup #fashionentrepreneur #brandbuilding #startupjourney #entrepreneurlife #smallbusiness #behindthescenes #fashiondesign #businessgrowth #socialmediamarketing #fashion#menswear #entrepreneur

Building a clothing brand isn’t just about designing great products—it’s an emotional rollercoaster.

In this episode, Mark opens up about a moment of real doubt, where he seriously considered throwing in the towel. From stressing over packaging details to the overwhelming pressure of making the business work, this raw conversation dives into the realities of entrepreneurship that most people don’t talk about.Beyond the frustration, there’s a lesson in resilience. Mark and James break down the mental battles that come with running a fashion brand, the constant second-guessing, and what ultimately keeps them pushing forward. If you've ever felt like giving up on something you're passionate about, this episode is for you.Whether you’re an entrepreneur, a creative, or someone navigating your own path, this episode offers inspiration and a reminder that you're not alone.#podcast #clothingbrandstartup #fashionentrepreneur #brandbuilding #startupjourney #entrepreneurlife #smallbusiness #behindthescenes#fashiondesign #businessgrowth#socialmediamarketing#fashion#menswear#entrepreneur

In this heartfelt episode, we delve into Mark’s journey from a high-pressure career in digital marketing through to launching Barnfield Customs, a brand that champions British craftsmanship.

Mark opens up about the burnout that came with running a successful agency and how it led him to rediscover his passion for design and storytelling.

Join us as Mark shares candid insights into the challenges of starting a premium menswear business, his philosophy on patience and quality, and the personal experiences that shaped his approach to life and work.

This is a story of resilience, reinvention, and the pursuit of meaning beyond success.

Whether you’re an entrepreneur, a creative, or someone navigating your own path, this episode offers inspiration and a reminder that sometimes, stepping back can be the first step forward.

#podcast #clothingbrandstartup #fashionentrepreneur #brandbuilding #startupjourney #entrepreneurlife #smallbusiness #behindthescenes#fashiondesign #businessgrowth#socialmediamarketing

It's always good to know who you're listening to and in this episode, we dive into James Shaw’s journey into menswear. From his family’s sartorial heritage and his great-grandfather’s involvement in the cotton mills of Manchester to co-founding Albam Clothing, James shares the influences that shaped his career. He also reflects on building a successful brand with multiple retail outlets in London and his enduring passion for the industry. If you’re a brand owner or simply curious about the raw process of starting a clothing business, we're giving you a behind-the-scenes look at the ups and downs of building a brand from scratch. Whether it's managing production frustrations, maintaining quality, or overcoming creative blocks, we're taking you through it all. #podcast #clothingbrandstartup #fashionentrepreneur #brandbuilding #startupjourney #entrepreneurlife #smallbusiness #behindthescenes#fashiondesign #businessgrowth#socialmediamarketing

We catch up over Mark's latest sweater samples before chatting through photoshoots, marketing campaign costs and how important it is to differentiate. The last thing we want to be doing is gatekeeping and we'll share whatever we possibly can every time we get behind the mics. So if there's anything you think we can help with or you have any questions, just ask! If you’re a brand founder or simply curious about the raw process of starting a clothing business, this episode gives you a behind-the-scenes look at the ups and downs of building a brand from scratch. Whether it's managing production frustrations, maintaining quality, or overcoming creative blocks, we're taking you through it all. #podcast #clothingbrandstartup #fashionentrepreneur #brandbuilding #startupjourney #entrepreneurlife #smallbusiness #behindthescenes#fashiondesign #businessgrowth#socialmediamarketing