Somsack Sikhounmuong on designing for Alex Mill and life after J. Crew
The Glossy Podcast · with Somsack Sikhounmuong · November 27, 2019 · 37 min
Summary
Somsack Sikhounmuong, a veteran designer, made the leap from J. Crew and Madewell to the smaller, burgeoning brand Alex Mill. This episode explores the nuances of transitioning from a large corporation to a startup, the distinct approaches to designing men's and women's fashion, and the significant role of mentorship and industry connections in career evolution, particularly under the continued influence of the Drexler family.
Key takeaways
Transitioning from a large, established company to a startup requires adapting to a more agile environment and potentially taking on broader responsibilities; be prepared for a significant shift in operational pace and resources.
Strategic career pivots, even after long tenures, can lead to fresh opportunities and renewed creative challenge, especially when guided by strong industry relationships.
Mentorship and personal networks are crucial within the fashion industry; cultivating these relationships can open doors to unexpected and impactful career opportunities.
Establishing a distinct brand identity is vital for newer labels, differentiating them from established players and navigating competitive markets.
Understanding the different creative and market considerations for designing men's versus women's fashion is key to excelling as a multifaceted designer.
After 16 years at J. Crew, Somsack Sikhounmuong switched to a much smaller company to design clothes for Alex Mill. But he's remaining close to the Drexler family.
"I always joke that he's my fairy god agent," said Sikhounmuong about Mickey Drexler, the former CEO of J. Crew Group.
During a sabbatical after his work at J. Crew and Madewell, the J. Crew subsidiary that continues to outshine its parent company, Sikhounmuong got a phone call from Mickey Drexler: "I was in line at Whole Foods, because I wasn't working and I could be in line at Whole Foods in the afternoon," he said. Mickey asked him to meet with his son Alex Drexler about designing for Alex's company, Alex Mill, for which Mickey Drexler is both an investor and an advisor.
On the Glossy Podcast, Sikhounmuong discussed his work for Alex Mill, which was founded in 2012 out of "a tiny store on Elizabeth Street." Sikhounmuong also talked about the difference between designing clothes for women versus men, the transition from a massive company to a startup, and the experience of interviewing with J. Crew's Jenna Lyons.
What does this episode say about founder & leadership?
Transitioning from a large, established company to a startup requires adapting to a more agile environment and potentially taking on broader responsibilities; be prepared for a significant shift in operational pace and resources.
What does this episode say about brand & content?
Strategic career pivots, even after long tenures, can lead to fresh opportunities and renewed creative challenge, especially when guided by strong industry relationships.
What does this episode say about founder & leadership?
Mentorship and personal networks are crucial within the fashion industry; cultivating these relationships can open doors to unexpected and impactful career opportunities.
What does this episode say about founder & leadership?
Establishing a distinct brand identity is vital for newer labels, differentiating them from established players and navigating competitive markets.
What does this episode say about founder & leadership?
Understanding the different creative and market considerations for designing men's versus women's fashion is key to excelling as a multifaceted designer.
