Entrepreneur Ari Jogiel Opens Factory Two Blocks From FIDM

Last year, fashion designer and entrepreneur Ari Jogiel launched a full package sewing factory two blocks from FIDM in the heart of the Fashion District. This week he stopped by FIDM to share his industry insights with students in the Premier Fashion Design Group.

Ari grew up in Mexico City and as a child dreamed of having his own clothing brand. He was recruited to play soccer at San Diego State University, but an injury ended that career. He went into corporate America after college, but never gave up on his dream of having his own fashion label. So, he launched LEOPARDËT in 2015 and now helps other brands grow. “If you have a dream and you have a passion,” he said, “you can make it happen.”

His first design was a leopard print snapback. He sourced a factory in China and had 100 hats made, which he then sold online and promoted on Facebook and email.

Next he expanded into jackets and a full men’s line, then immediately into a women’s collection. He said the biggest mistake you can make is to try to grow too fast. “Don’t do a men’s and a women’s line at the same time when you’re starting out. It’s too hard.”

To put himself in the center of the fashion industry, he made the move from San Diego to Los Angeles. At first he did his own sales, visiting retail stores to show his product. But he realized he needed to beef up his efforts in marketing and PR which required more capital. So, he launched a Kickstarter campaign and raised $25K in 30 days.

Golf companies started approaching him to create collections, and his brand slowly started shifting. In the process, he was gaining valuable experience in product development and manufacturing. So, he shifted again, this time helping other brands with their manufacturing.

For over a year now his focus has been on design development as he works on his own brand. Clients bring him fashion sketches and he does full package, everything from A-Z—including pattern making and sourcing. He has a unique position in the marketplace in that he can do small runs, as few as 50 pieces per style. So, far he’s helped 30 brands bring their products to life and he continues to grow his business.

The city of Los Angeles itself continues to gain momentum in the eyes of the fashion industry, and Ari is tapping into it. One of his taglines is “Made in Freaking Los Angeles.”

A relative newcomer to the fashion industry, Ari Jogiel is fiercely committed to realizing his dream. And nothing is going to stop him. Many of the students in the Premier Fashion Design Group will be graduating this year and as they embark on their careers, Ari’s example will surely inspire them. The secret to his success? He says it takes “dedication and love.”

Categories:  Fashion Design