Wesley Jagod is the inspiration and force behind Wes J Clothing in Seattle, Washington. Wes started on the road to his design career about five years ago; people were constantly suggesting that the designs he drew would look great on clothes. He worked on his ideas, experimenting with different mediums for his designs. Wes explains that ultimately, armed with “a clear vision, a lot of research, a checklist, a little collateral, [and] belief in [his] designs,” he formed his company.

Wes finds connections with others through his work. “I seem to have the most pride in designs that not only reach me personally but others as well.  I get inspiration from the environment I am in, social interactions, people watching, music, pretty much anything that gets me in the groove to draw.”

He categorizes his line as “everyday wear. The basics. Not quite boutique nor mainstream.” He can envision Lauren Conrad or Ashton Kutcher wearing his designs, because “they know how to wear basics very well.” Wes J Clothing is featured on UsTrendy, where you can read his blogs and view his portfolio.

Wes advises new designers to “do your research before you start selling your product. Make a checklist before ‘launch day.’ Remember, in public eyes, you are your brand. Keep it legal. Network. Know your competitors. Do not stop evolving your designs. It is okay to ask for help. Use your resources, i.e. family and friends. Take baby steps. Market. Market. Market. Last but not least, have fun rocking your designs out to the masses.”

Wes has needed to learn to manage the daily pressures of owning his own design business. He explains some of the obstacles a new designer faces. “Keeping up with the demand and time management. Once one finds their niche, and things start to steadily progress, the masses will want more. However, consumers will not wait forever; thus, staying on top of that niche is important.”

Funding is another major obstacle for designers. A fashion designer must make enough money “to continue designing while maintaining a sane lifestyle. Some people get ‘it’ from the beginning and make the big bucks. For others, it takes time.”

Wes’ fashion addictions are shoes and accessories. “In just about all situations, one can make or break an outfit with a pair of shoes or an accessory. However, I find that they are also the easiest things to change in an outfit. I say choose wisely.”

Wes offered a final thought for those choosing a career in the fashion industry. “Watching my designs come to life on the products themselves has been an amazing experience. Especially, when I see someone I do not know wearing one of my pieces, it is a trip. Whatever it may be, if fashion is your calling or a hobby, remember, what you design is coming from your unique mind. Thus, take pride and fully enjoy your creative side. There is no limit to fashion.”