Designing clothing has always been Aleksander Hender’s creative outlet.
That’s why he launched Independent Notion, which offers unique clothing, accessories, and footwear, all designed in-house. He is now growing the startup in the Master of Business Creation (MBC) program at the University of Utah’s David Eccles School of Business.
“I taught myself how to sew and learned about clothing manufacturing,” Hender said. “Now, I can create anything I choose and mass-produce it.”
Because each piece of every product is intentional and carefully crafted, Hender’s centered his marketing around the individual.
“People overthink branding,” he said. “The customer is the brand – they create the branding. We are storytellers through product and designs, not a product with brand names plastered all over it.”
Through his items, Hender hopes his customers can show their personalities.
“My goal in pursuing this company was to help other people magnify their expression through fashion,” Hender said.
With $50,000 in sales in just under a year, Independent Notion is meeting that goal.
“That’s all with no advertising expense,” he said. “It’s been driven through organic content.”
Even celebrities have jumped on to the movement.
“We are working with many professional big-name athletes and influencers across the United States, including Jalen Hurts,” he said. “We also are working with some well-known local athletes like Jordan Clarkson, Julian Blackmon, and Puka Nacua.”
Hender’s next goal while scaling his startup is a physical location.
“I want to open a flagship store in Los Angeles in which we can magnify the customer experience for a localized market,” he said.
Enrolling in the MBC was a huge boost for Independent Notion.
“Our teachers have been the single most beneficial part of this program,” Hender said. “Having your own professional consultant for your business at no expense is one of the most incredible tools to have on your tool belt. I have had countless meaningful conversations with my preceptor that have helped change and support my outlook for my business.”
Learn more about Independent Notion on their website, independentnotion.com.
Independent Notion offers unique clothing, accessories, and footwear, all designed in-house.
