Today we’d like to introduce you to Scott Sykes.
Hi Scott, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
I came to Los Angeles in the spring of 1999 on what was supposed to be a three month summer internship for Entertainment Tonight and then later CNN. After graduating college, I knew I had to move back to this exciting town. I have worked in many fields in Los Angeles before landing in the fashion industry. My most fond before opening Universal Body was working for Dolce & Gabbana Men’s in Beverly Hills. This boutique taught me a lot about quality of garments, customer service, and most of all, teamwork.
I met my now business partners at Dolce & Gabbana. That is where we started a friendship and common love of fashion and a purpose to create an unique shopping experience of our own in Los Angeles. We started Universal Body over eight years ago. Once we opened at 8000 Sunset Blvd on the Sunset Strip, the store began to gather more beautiful brands
We now house over 40 designers, artists and brands, many of which are local or US companies made in the USA. I am proud to have such a wide range of talented designers housed under one roof.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
I like to think of the store as a place to come and celebrate life at its best. As we all know this last two years has presented us all with challenges not only financially but also with the overall well being of clients and their mood. I had to quickly reallocate the offering from mostly fun unique clothing to be worn and seen, to the store’s other departments which are comfortable casual and luxury athletic.
This is what has kept the store moving during Covid19. Universal Body has a focus on high quality garments now serving a different purpose Less of showy clothing to be worn out, serving outwardly and now more of comfort – feel good clothing serving within.
All the categories now offered are important and will always be part of the DNA of the store.
We’ve been impressed with Universal Body, but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
Universal Body is focused on bringing local talented creators in with the purpose of giving a client a special shopping experience. Not one designer or brand concept or theme is repeated. Each talented designer has created their own lane and has a stage just to themselves in the store. I love placing a brand new designer or brand and watching them succeed. It makes it all worth it !
Also, watching a client’s face that come in and finds so many things they love and can’t leave without. The store has been described as “dangerous” too many times to count. In a way I could agree but frankly it’s a good thing. I know how much happiness is exchanged when someone says they “have to have this” and walks out with something special just for them.
Any advice for finding a mentor or networking in general?
I believe in an organic form of networking where the purpose is to feed a curiosity about an industry or product. Common likes and loves and work ethics should always work together when it is possible. If you love something and want to learn more about it, you will naturally gravitate to those in the profession you want. Having a curious mind and a passion for a field is of great value for both sides. When you know you have a lot to offer an industry, even if its only a curiosity, that can be of great value and later blossom into a wonderful career. The most important advice I could give is to stay authentic to who you and your own unique brand as you move your way up in the field you want.
Contact Info:
