BlackStrap®’s Post

Big ups to Jarret Schlaff and the team at Pingree Detroit! Jarret, your commitment to using the tools of business, manufacturing, and team-building as means to the end of creating opportunities for systemically disenfranchised people and communities as well as case studies for how industry and manufacturing can step into right relationship by creating desired products in a way that not only doesn't harm the earth but actually reduces waste is deeply inspiring. Congratulations on your recognitions and here's to your continued thriving! Help me give congrats to not just Detroit's but Michigan’s Best Shoe Store & Community Choice winner. Let Jarret and Pingree be your response when corporations and politicians continue to peddle the lie that they can't create jobs AND do right by the world and immediately surrounding community. What is truer is that it's *really, really hard* and takes tremendous vision and skill to do it right. But THAT is an equation I wouldn't mind seeing executives get paid a lot to balance. Of course, the irony is that the ones who do, usually don't! Which leads us to: A system built on extraction defies natural law and does not deserve to exist, as it imperils others’ ability to exist. The current configuration of the prevailing political and economic system in the US and globalized world not only depends upon but actively incentivizes and promotes these unsustainable systems while throwing up all kinds of barriers and hurdles to more sustainable and right-sized alternatives. It’s time to start balancing our own equations better, whether we identify as consumers, policy makers, planners, business leaders, visionaries, or media readers. We all deserve better than business as usual. I'm glad Jarrett and Pingree are modeling a version of what that can look like and getting some recognition for it.

Ralph Lauren, a titan in American branding, illuminates the distinction between the product, the selling entity, and the intangible brand essence. Fashion, according to him, embodies youth, aspiration, and constant change, crafting emotional value for consumers. Watch an inspiring video where Ralph Lauren unveils the artistry behind one of his collections, emphasizing a commitment to creating something beyond commercialism. #ralphlauren #fashionbusiness #fashion

To celebrate 15 years of Drapers 30 Under 30, we catch up with Darren Leon Mckoy, global creative director at Dr. Martens plc and class of 2013 alumni. Read more on McKoy's career here. Remember, there's still time to enter into the Drapers 30 Under 30 2024. You can find out all the details below. #Drapers30under30 #30under30 #risingstar #fashioncareer #fashionnews

You really have to admire Carhartt for staying true to who they are. Despite its increase in popularity in mainstream fashion, they've refused to pivot and abandon the base that has supported the brand for its entire history. #Marketing #MarketingStrategy #BrandIdentity

A few items to consider when shopping this weekend.

A few items to consider if you are out shopping this weekend. Before you purchase, decide what you're going to wear them with. The key to creating a structured wardrobe. https://lnkd.in/gtcmYkka

STOP THINKING AND START BUILDING