In this interview, we delve into the remarkable story of how Frances Harder, the Owner of Fashion For Profit Consulting, embarked on her path to success in the world of fashion consulting. Join us as Frances shares her experiences, notable accomplishments, leadership style, and the values that have guided her along the way. Discover what sets Fashion For Profit Consulting apart from other agencies, how Frances navigated the challenges of the textile and apparel industry, and her aspirations for the future. Get ready to be inspired by Frances’s journey as a leader and her relentless pursuit of excellence in the field of fashion consulting.
Professional Journey of Frances Harder
Frances Harder is the Founder of Fashion for Profit Consulting, a role she has held since 1998, providing industry experts to consult on all aspects of the fashion industry. She is also the author and publisher of multiple editions of “Fashion for Profit,” “Costing for Profit,” “Brand Building for Profit,” “Forms for Profit,” along with three professional DVDs accompanying the publications. These extensive self-published textbooks and DVD series explain everything needed to start an apparel company, covering product development, brand building, costing, business planning, financial requirements, production cycle, sales and marketing, and opening a retail operation. Learning institutions globally use these textbooks as part of their curriculum, and they have also been developed for online delivery through webinars.
In 2024, Frances began consulting for the Ukraine Design Collective, assisting nine apparel brands from Ukraine to enter the U.S. market. Since 2012, she has been a consultant for the International Trade Center/World Trade Organization/United Nations, working on projects in Peru, Nepal, and Egypt to help manufacturers with product development, merchandising, manufacturing, costing, and marketing, including online distribution channels. Her roles included preparing companies for U.S. market entry, organizing seminars, and developing training programs.
Frances has been a Seminar Organizer, Presenter, and Moderator at various significant trade shows such as Sourcing @ MAGIC International, Apparel Textile Sourcing Show, LA Textile Show, DG Expo, and more. She has served as an Expert Witness for industry-related issues and has been an Adjunct Professor and Curriculum Advisor at California Polytechnic University, Pomona since 2013.
She founded the Fashion Business Incorporated (FBI) in 1999, an educational non-profit organization providing business intelligence and training to apparel manufacturers. Her previous roles include being an Apparel Business & Design Consultant for brands like Priscilla Presley, the Sultan of Brunei, Fredricks of Hollywood and having her name under license in Japan and a full-time Associate Professor at institutions like Otis College of Art & Design, California Design College, and Fashion Institute of Design & Merchandise.
Frances has received numerous accolades, including the IAOTP’s Top Founder & President of the Year 2024, being listed in Who’s Who in America (2023-2024), and being voted one of LA’s most influential people by California Apparel News for 18 years. She holds a Bachelor of Arts with honors in Fashion Design from Salford University, Manchester, England, and a teaching certificate from Seattle College of Further Education. Fluent in English and proficient in German, Frances has a global perspective and extensive experience in the fashion industry.
Leadership Qualities That Contributed to Success
Frances Harder attributes much of her success as a leader to her natural interest in others and her ability to identify and address their needs. She believes that genuine empathy and a deep understanding of people’s perspectives have been crucial in her journey. This innate ability to connect with others has helped Frances build meaningful relationships and foster trust with her clients and colleagues.
Key Trends and Challenges in the Textile and Apparel Industry for 2024 and Beyond
Frances Harder identifies several significant trends and challenges facing the textile and apparel industry in 2024. One of the foremost demands is sustainability, which encompasses various aspects such as the choice of fabrics, eco-friendly packaging, fair labor practices, and the push towards nearshoring production. Additionally, the industry is experiencing a shift towards on-demand production, robotic manufacturing, and direct-to-consumer models. These changes have led to numerous retail closures and highlight the necessity for businesses to adapt to these evolving demands.
Preparing Fashion For Profit Consulting for the Changing Landscape
To remain effective as a consultant, Frances ensures that she stays current with industry trends and challenges. Her approach involves maintaining a finger on the pulse of the textile and apparel sector to help new companies navigate these changes successfully. Frances’s commitment to staying informed and responsive allows her to guide her clients through the complexities of the industry.
Overcoming Major Obstacles and Failures
One of the major obstacles Frances faced was her dyslexia, which went unrecognized during her early years. Despite this challenge, she was fortunate to have had supportive teachers who encouraged her and helped her overcome this difficulty. Frances’s resilience and the encouragement she received were instrumental in her growth and success.
Fostering a Culture of Innovation
As a solo entrepreneur, Frances Harder has built a robust network through her teaching and the founding of Fashion Business Incorporated (FBI), an educational nonprofit. Her innovative approach includes presenting at trade shows both domestically and internationally, which has opened new doors and created opportunities for growth. Through these efforts, Frances has been able to build a significant industry contact list and foster a culture of innovation.
Resources and Learning Experiences Influencing Leadership Style
Frances’s leadership style has been shaped by her experiences with networking and professional development. Her journey began with an internship during her student years, which led to a full-time design position and eventually to an invitation to teach. These experiences helped Frances build a dual career as both a designer and educator, contributing significantly to her leadership approach.
Building and Nurturing a Strong Team
When Frances founded FBI in 1999, she leveraged her existing contacts to build a team and expand her network. By connecting with people through her professional relationships, Frances was able to establish a strong foundation for her nonprofit organization. Her strategy of utilizing and expanding her professional circle has been a key factor in her success.
Incorporating Social and Environmental Responsibility
Sustainability is a central theme in Frances’s consulting work. She emphasizes the importance of understanding the breadth and depth of sustainability in the textile and apparel industry. Through her presentations and consulting efforts, Frances advocates for environmentally responsible practices and helps companies navigate the complexities of sustainable business operations.
The Importance of Digital Transformation in 2024
Digital transformation is essential for businesses in 2024, according to Frances Harder. She notes that digital advancements have introduced new business practices and marketing strategies that are crucial for success. Frances has embraced these changes by understanding and incorporating digital tools into her consulting work, recognizing that digital presence is integral to modern business practices.
Essential Skills and Qualities for Success in the Business World
Frances believes that a key quality for success in the business world is being a good listener. She emphasizes that effective communication is a two-way street, and being attentive to others’ perspectives is crucial for building successful relationships with clients and contacts.
Why People Should Follow Frances Harder’s Leadership Journey
Frances Harder hopes that her extensive experience and broad network will continue to guide new apparel companies towards success. Her years of expertise and her ability to connect with industry professionals make her a valuable resource for those looking to navigate the fashion industry.
Future Influences on the Business Landscape
Looking ahead, Frances plans to continue her consulting work and assist new apparel startups through seminars and referrals. She also serves as a legal expert for industry-related lawsuits, which has provided her with additional insights into the legal aspects of the fashion industry. Her ongoing efforts to support new businesses and her involvement in legal matters will further influence the business landscape.
Significant Achievements and Milestones
Reflecting on her career, Frances Harder acknowledges that her achievements have been largely driven by networking and building relationships throughout her life. Her blog documents her experiences and highlights her global travel to assist companies in entering the U.S. market. Frances’s ability to connect with diverse professionals and her dedication to helping others have been instrumental in her career milestones.
In conclusion, Frances Harder’s journey as the Owner of Fashion For Profit Consulting offers a profound example of leadership and resilience in the fashion industry. Her ability to adapt to changing trends, overcome personal challenges, and foster a culture of innovation showcases the qualities that make her a remarkable leader. Frances’s commitment to sustainability, her strategic use of digital tools, and her dedication to helping new businesses navigate the complexities of the fashion world reflect a deep understanding of the industry’s evolving landscape. As we look to the future, Frances’s ongoing influence and her wealth of experience continue to inspire those who seek to make a meaningful impact in the business world.
