Alumni

Grad Launches Activewear Line

Merchandise Product Development Graduate Lauren Luketich (pictured below, at right), who graduated from FIDM in 2011, has launched Corestyle, an activewear line for women. We recently chatted with her to learn more.   

What led you to found Corestyle? I have always been very active, and wanted to start a line that reflected my personality. When you look and feel good about yourself, you work harder. I also started the line in hopes of bringing women together in a more positive light--lifting each other up as opposed to having this cliquey-vibe. No one likes mean girls. The brand will eventually host events for women.

When did you officially launch? I began designing and putting little parts and pieces together last year but did not launch until around November 2016 with the online sales. I am doing everything on my own--it's a one-woman show. I am not your usual run-of-the-mill line. I will not constantly turn merchandise and become a factory; that is part of the problem with fashion today. It turns too quickly and people don’t have time to enjoy what is in front of them, or in their closet. I want people to really enjoy and wear the pieces they buy from me. Everything is made here in L.A. and in small quantities. 

What were you doing prior to striking out on your own? The last four years before branching off on my own I was working for MLV Maison La Vie, from the ground up. I am still in contact with the team and they are some of my favorite people in this world.

How did FIDM help prepare you for entrepreneurship? The Product Development Program allowed me to learn a little bit of each aspect of the business, from design concept to finished, shipped product. Choosing this major definitely determined my career path in the best way possible. 

Lauren is offering 20% off to FIDM students, faculty, and alumni with code FIDM20.

Categories:  Fashion Design Merchandise Product Development Alumni