Today we’d like to introduce you to Mia F.
Hi Mia, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
“Hi! Thank you for having me. I started my brand Proven LA (formerly MadeByMia) in March 2020 in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic. I initially started out selling tie dye tank tops and reworked clothing – but after a while, I wanted to create clothing that I felt was more aligned with me and my personal style. Honing in on my personal aesthetic, I began to create designs for sweatshirts and sweatpants that were inspired by my hometown of Los Angeles. These hoodies took off and we became known as the creator of the dice hoodie.
After about a year and five collections, I felt the need to rebrand. It was time to evolve and expand – and this is how MadeByMia became Proven LA. Proven LA has a distinctly clean design aesthetic and each collection is created with care and packed with intention. Proven’s debut collection featured a large “West Side” hand symbol on the back and sold out in days. But, just two collections in, Proven evolved again.
Now, Proven LA is focused on being more sustainable. In order to do this, Proven has shifted the manufacturing process to ensure that high-quality products with more eco-friendly fabrics (organic cotton and recycled polyester) are being made. It has been a slow shift to sustainability and eco-consciousness, but we are well on our way to releasing our first eco-conscious collection (stay updated with us on Instagram @Proven.LA). This shift was inspired by a desire to infuse more purposefulness into the brand. As the environment remains under attack, it is important for everyone to do their part and create the future. Our design aesthetic remains the same, with each collection emanating authenticity and an unmistakable West Coast vibe.”
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
It has not always been a smooth road; like other businesses, Proven has undergone its fair share of disappointment, confusion, and overall hardship. The obstacles that stand out for me are failed drops (0 sales!), supply chain issues, and work-life balance when I began college. It definitely would have been easy to quit and just remember the brand’s past success, but I have always decided to keep going and pursue Proven. Going through all of these struggles has taught me how to adapt to unforeseen circumstances, stay motivated, and also take the time to rest. As cliché as it may sound, nothing worth having is easy. Keep going!
Great, so let’s talk business. Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
Proven LA is a Los Angeles streetwear brand that creates clean, creative, and essential clothing. Proven is currently shifting to being a sustainable brand and our first eco-conscious collection is well underway. We are also the creator of the iconic dice hoodie – a hoodie that is complete with real dice on the strings.
Brand-wise, I am most proud of the longevity of the brand and our visuals. We always aim to create stellar visuals that are memorable and make you look twice.
Most importantly, thank you to everyone who continually supports us. This support does not go unnoticed!
What has been the most important lesson you’ve learned along your journey?
The most important lesson that I have learned along my journey is that it is completely fine to take breaks. As a young entrepreneur who is also a full-time student, I sometimes find myself stretched in many different directions. This takes away from my personal ability and the effort that I am able to put into Proven. Quite simply, I am not able to create a vision nor collections that are up to my personal standards if I am tired and uninspired.
Please be kind to yourself always – and remember, it’s okay to rest for a second if you need it. For me personally, I find solace in painting, meditating, or even just chilling at home watching Netflix. Whatever you need to do to recharge, do it!
Contact Info:
- Website: ProvenLA.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/proven.la/
- Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@provenla
Image Credits
@baaaelen (First photo)
