An Interview with SAFFIRE CLOTHING Owner and Designer, Liliana Barretti
MDW had the lovely chance to have an interview with Liliana Barretti, owner and designer of SAFFIRE CLOTHING. Read below for more!
What inspired you to start your own business, and how has that initial inspiration evolved as your company has grown?
I always wanted to not only be a fashion designer, but to inspire women around the world. Having learned manifestation from a young age, I always wished more people could realize the power of their thoughts to create their dream reality. Flash forward to today, I am the designer & owner of SAFFIRE CLOTHING—a women’s streetwear & resort wear brand made in Los Angeles, inspiring a positive mindset & manifestation.
I achieved this by first working in retail in high school and using my summer breaks in high school to take fashion courses in NYC. I volunteered for fashion weeks and took on many internships, from haute couture to street wear. I studied design, textile science, and managerial economics at UC Davis. After college, I worked for many reputable companies as the designer and production lead. Being a "yes-man" enabled me to later launch my own brand.
What are some of the biggest challenges you've faced as an entrepreneur, and how have you overcome them?
While being your own boss is a dream come true, it definitely comes with challenges. Learning to do the not-so-fun things can make or break your business’ success. Learn to be self-disciplined, extremely organized, manage your time, and outsource work when needed.
Can you share a pivotal moment or decision that significantly impacted the trajectory of your business?
Deciding to switch from the more budget-friendly wholesale buying and private labeling styles to manufacturing my own designs was the best decision. It’s more costly, but worth it because it allows you to stand out from a saturated market, be more creative, maintain quality of goods, show behind-the-scenes, and let your customers have a say in the design process, host branded pop-ups and influencer events, and lastly, build a strong community.
In today's rapidly changing market landscape, how do you stay innovative and adaptable to ensure your business remains competitive?
Never stop learning! The industry and consumer behaviors change constantly, as well as technology and innovation. Attend as many in-person conferences, online webinars, fashion weeks, and networking events as possible. Join inspiring and uplifting groups and events in your community, like The Modern Day Wife!
It’s hard not to compare your actions to others in your industry. Stay focused on your brand values and community, understand your target market, and choose the right creators to represent your brand. Stay up to date on the latest technologies, like AI, to improve your work flow and maximize time and efficiency. Expand product placement and brand presence on more social platforms. More importantly, your product doesn’t need to be perfect at launch—just keep improving it over time.
What advice would you give to aspiring entrepreneurs who are just starting their own journey?
One of my favorite quotes is “If you wait till you’re ready, you’ll be waiting your whole life”. There is never a better time to get started than now! Entrepreneurship doesn’t need to feel so lonely in the beginning. Join an inspiring, motivating community, hire help or outsource work when needed, and prioritize your mental, physical & emotional heath. Lastly, never forget the power of your mind to manifest your dream life!
To stay up to date on all things Liliana Barretti and SAFFIRE CLOTHING, find them on Instagram @lilianadiamond and @saffirelosangeles!
