WRITTEN BY: KATE MACCABE
For this edition of Flywheel’s Founder Series, we’re thrilled to spotlight the bold creativity and entrepreneurial spirit behind Renee France Designs. A proud alum of the Philadelphia Fashion Incubator, Renee France is a self-taught designer whose vibrant, detail-rich creations have been described as “walking art.” Her journey from sewing in junior high to launching a fashion brand rooted in culture, craftsmanship, and confidence is nothing short of inspiring.
In this rapid-fire Q&A, she shares what fuels her passion, the lessons she’s learned, and what’s next for her growing brand. Let’s dive in!
RAPID FIRE Q&A WITH FOUNDER RENEE FRANCE
Q: Can you share a little bit about your background?
A: I was born and raised in Brooklyn, NY into a very interesting and creative family with deep southern roots on one side and a very blended family on the other. Growing up in East NY people were very stylish people and you didn’t dare step out,” incorrect” as we used to say! On one side there was a heavy southern Baptist influence + Islam & being prim & proper on the other. My mom made beautiful clothes & her twin crocheted a lot. I carried my grandmother’s sewing machine to college and have been sewing since Jr. High!
Q: What inspired you to launch Renee France Designs?
A: I always loved beautiful clothing. It was in my blood, all I ever wanted to do was create beautiful clothing. People would always ask where I got my clothes from and preferred the designs I made for myself. After a late night call for a party outfit with me making $100 in cash and I didn’t have to leave my young daughters to work…That was it!
Q: What makes Renee France Designs unique?
A: My designs have always been considered walking art because of the bold color combinations, rich textures and attention to the finish plus accessories. Details are everything! I will search high and low for a good button or trim! The cut says it all.
Q: What has been the most challenging part of bringing Renee France Designs to life so far?
A: I am a self taught artist who thought I could do everything myself. If I could clone myself 2x’s, I would be set! Getting out of my head, letting go of the fear of failure & understanding how to be the creative business woman over the artist mentality. Building & retaining a strong team. Really looking at the big picture, planning it out & executing it daily! Understanding location is everything as it ties back to who my customer really is. Being very strategic with finances and how to balance work, life and the business.
Q: What is the most fulfilling part of bringing Renee France Designs to life?
A: It is absolutely soul satisfying to see a person try on one of my designs, moving their body and smiling before even looking in the mirror because it is fitting them so right! To hear I was the best dressed, people stopped me and asked if they could take pictures & words like,” I feel so special when I wear your clothes”! & to get paid for doing something I love doing…yes that is fulfilling!
Q: Best advice you’ve ever received or advice you would like to share with aspiring founders and entrepreneurs?
A: Study your field, research and get out there! Work & save your money because you are going to need lots of it! Know your weaknesses, barter or hire the best you can for what you need with what you can afford until you can do better! Teach yourself, take classes & network, it will make a world of a difference!
Q: Can you share a little about any exciting events and launches coming up for Renee France Designs?
A: I would enjoy sharing such great news with you, but at the moment I must remain quiet and keep the good within until it’s official…But, I can tell you I am partnering with a really great photographer to shoot a with new collection in the works which will lean into a new shift and look for Renee France Designs.
Q: What trends are on your radar in the ecommerce space, to help drive Renee France Designs’s growth?
A: I will be leaning into the wealth of knowledge I’ve acquired over the past year’s tenure with the Philadelphia Fashion Incubator Program. Creating content for my website with.
Q: Where can consumers learn more about you and Renee France Designs?
A: I can be found on instagram & facebook under @reneefrancedesigns and on my website there are links to upcoming events and my new blog giving insight to who I am as a person on top of being designer, while tying it all back into the fashion of course
Passionate about supporting amibitious founders like Renee on her journey to bringing walking art through bold color combinations to market?
Connect with the Flywheel Strategy team to explore opportunities to partner and collaborate.
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