Dorothy
Fuller’s name is synonymous with fashion, not only in this country, but also in
fashion capitols around the world. She has
worked with the Chinese government in
Beijing on various projects and hosted the first live
broadcast of the prêt a porter collections from Paris to Chicago. Early in her career, she started her own business,
Dorothy Fuller Productions, which grew into the largest
fashion show production company in the U.S.
Mayor
Harold Washington appointed Ms. Fuller head of a task force, whose purpose was to review
the Sewn Products Industry in Chicago, as it existed, and devise a strategy for retaining
jobs while creating new ones. The outgrowth of
this task force was the Apparel
Industry Board (AIBI), which she founded in 1987.
As
president of the Apparel Industry Board, she started a mentoring program in which she has
helped hundreds of designers, of all kinds of sewn products, start their own businesses.
This
is a consulting service that takes designers
through the manufacturing process from A to Z,
dealing with numerous Chicago based companies.
Having
been actively involved in Illinois’ Sewn Products Industry, as well as overseas, her
experience and influence helps unknown companies
get the service they deserve at a reasonable price for the typically small quantities
being ordered.
- WHAT
DOES IT COST?
One
mentoring session is $150. (AIBI
members receive a $50. discount).
Each
additional consultation is $50.—$100., depending on the time and attention requested. Additional questions that arise after the meeting
can simply be answered by phone, for which there is no fee.
Full consultations,
however may not be conducted by phone.
- BENEFITS
Fees
will cover assistance regarding the product,
such as: costing, business plans, sourcing materials, finding patternmakers, manufacturers,
contractors, and samplemakers.
Your
fee also includes a copy of the AIBI Directory
of
the Illinois Apparel and Sewn Products Industry Directory.
It is the only resource guide of
its kind in Illinois and is published every 2
years by the AIBI. Additional
directories can be purchased separately
for $10.
Many
designers are unsure how to cost a product once it is made.
Whether it’s for retail or wholesale, it can be tricky knowing how to
ensure a profit.
Participation
in the Mentor Program is also a great way to get in contact with industry professionals
and get constructive feedback.
Follow-up
calls and appointments are encouraged
to review any progress or complications
regarding the project.
- SUCCESS
STORIES
Many
designers who have sought advice through the Mentor Program have taken their products to
new heights. Although fashion is Ms.
Fuller’s forté,
she has helped to launch a wide variety of products including kimonos for hospitalized
preemies, an insulated leg wrap for injured horses, dog accessories and uniforms.
- MAKE
AN APPOINTMENT
For
further information about the Mentor Program
or to make an appointment, please call: 312.923.9072.
Consultations
are as long as needed in order to provide a basic understanding of the process
required to launch the product in question. It
is recommended that participants bring samples, sketches, or swatches, etc. that may
better describe their ideas during the appointment.