Collaboration as a Mindset

What I’ve learned from designing with others and why I want more of it.

Collaboration as a fashion brand isn’t just about exposure or money. It’s about trust, experimentation, and letting creativity go places it couldn’t go alone. My toxic personality trait is that I believe, and want, to do absolutely everything myself. Unfortunately for me, there simply isn’t enough time in the day to do this.

As I continue on my journey, I want to accept and seek help more. To connect and collaborate with others, regardless of discipline or preconceived ideas.

Results from photoshoot last week!

Continuing on from our work last year, I have collaborated with my good friend Jimmy (@setirergarms) yet again. We’ve got different styles and different strengths, but when we work together, the whole process feels much easier. It pushed both of us to experiment, let go, and create without many of the restrictions you experience during the design process.

As small brands and aspiring designers, we’re often taught to protect our ideas. But I’m starting to think the most powerful thing we can do is collaborate. Share ideas, resources, creativity, and most importantly, our skills.

Collaboration takes vulnerability. You have to open up your process and be okay with letting someone else influence and take control at times. There is a common misconception that you must be ‘established’ or popular to create enough buzz to collaborate. This is far from the case. In fact, we can start now — with friends, brands, and different disciplines.

BTS from shoot!

I also believe collaboration is vital in community building — an area I want to continue to develop, grow, and evolve in 2026. I believe, now more than ever, that the fashion industry needs community. With all the doom and gloom happening in the world regarding the economy, society, and the environment, why would we want to continue this toxicity into something like fashion?

Before social media, specifically TikTok, fashion used to be about experimenting, having fun, creating, and being involved in cultures and communities. Now, you may be ridiculed for dressing a certain way, while your favourite designers are out here flexing their wealth on you.

Maybe I’m delusional or pessimistic. But what is money if you don’t have a community, real close friends, and human connections?

Because in the end, fashion isn’t just what you wear. It’s what is built, together.

Sincerely,
R