Today we’d like to introduce you to Angela Jones.
Thanks for sharing your story with us Angela. So, let’s start at the beginning and we can move on from there.
I went shopping for a pair of yoga pants and I couldn’t find anything cute-n-comfy AND well-made that wasn’t less than $100! I just thought that was absurd. So I made my own.
I would receive a ton compliments whenever I wore my designs to the gym or just out & about, and as a former Fashion Editor, I knew there was a market for what I was creating, so I decided to bite the bullet and launch my own athleisure apparel brand, familiar…yet different.
It’s now going on three years and six collections later, and I’ve recently completed my catalog with the addition of unisex Sneakers!
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
I’m 100% self-owned & operated. Which means all financial investments, press pitches, design submissions, manufacturing, advertising campaigns, social media management and reaching sales goals all fall 100% on my shoulders.
Suffice it to say, it’s been…a process. The initial product launch was birthed from my frustration with the market, however, I didn’t walk into this blindly & completely unprepared. As I previously stated, I am a former Fashion Editor, but I also have a PR & Finance background. So I’ve done my best to rely on my experience and be smart about it, although a lot of it has been instinctual.
The main challenge for me has been manufacturing goods in the U.S.A.
Sadly, it has been extremely difficult to find an eco-friendly, reliable & affordable manufacturer in the States. It’s unbelievable how many overseas factories have contacted me offering their services for basically pennies compared to domestic businesses. One, in China, quoted me $5/pair! So if you think about it, these uber-popular activewear brands that are charging $100 for a pair of leggings are actually made in Vietnam, India, etc. and are making SO much money off of their American Customers. It’s been eye-opening to say the least.
There were a few false (and very disappointing) starts, but I finally found a dependable plant right here in SoCal. It was well worth the search and extra financial investment, as I prefer to sell products that I know are produced in a U.S. garment factory that adheres to strong environmental regulations, employee’s rights, and contributes to a stronger domestic economy.
Finally, Consistency has certainly been key. Launching new Collections every season, posting daily to social media, keeping press releases and business plans current…it’s a full-time endeavor. But it’s MY endeavor. So I’m more than happy to pursue it.
familiar…yet different – what should we know? What do you do best? What sets you apart from the competition?
familiar…yet different is an online shopping destination featuring affordable athleisure apparel & accessories. The brand appeals to both the athletic and the leisure dispositions. Popular items include illustrative tees & hoodies, yoga pants & sneakers. Quality, fit and comfort are essential. Design, with a slightly unorthodox aesthetic is key.
I operate familiar…yet different as an ethical brand. FYD is owned & designed in the USA BY a Woman (me) FOR Women. Size inclusivity is taken into account, with Leggings available from Petite (XS) to Plus Size (6XL). In effort to reduce waste, pieces are not produced until an order is placed and a % of the company’s Sale Proceeds are donated monthly to the ASPCA & ACLU.
I am quite proud that at the end of the day, I don’t think in terms of how the community can support my brand, but rather, how my brand can support the community.
What is “success” or “successful” for you?
My success is my own. I’m seasoned enough to know that comparing my goals, failures or achievements to someone else’s is not only unrealistic, it’s just unhealthy.
This is one of the reasons why familiar…yet different is self-owned & operated. I want all the challenges, decisions & perks to be mine. It’s one of the few things in my life I am unapologetically selfish about.
I’m honestly not looking for a quick rise to success as I don’t want to burn out just as fast. I know too many people that have peaked and made fast money but now they’re miserable. I’m quite content managing the brand and watching it grow. I of course want familiar..yet different to be successful, but I also want it to still be around in 10+ years.
Pricing:
- 2nd-Skin Leggings start as low as $39.99
- Sneakers are available in both Women’s & Men’s Sizes starting at $50
- Plus Size Leggings are available up to 6XL starting at $49.99
Contact Info:
- Website: https://familiaryetdifferent.com/
- Phone: (424) 274-1438
- Email: familiaryetdifferent@gmail.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/familiaryetdifferent/?hl=en
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/familiaryetdifferent/
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/familiaryetdiff
- Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@familiaryetdifferent?
Image Credit:
All images owned by familiar…yet different, LLC
Suggest a story: VoyageLA is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
