For apparel and merchandising students at Colorado State University, the skills learned in the program help prepare them for the careers ahead, giving them the knowledge for success. For student Tamar Smith, these skills are propelling his existing role as a young brand creator and owner.
Smith is a third-year student in the CSU Department of Design and Merchandising and the founder of Unseen Perspectives, a clothing brand he started in October 2020.
A perspective unseen
For Smith, Unseen Perspectives is defined by its stance of bolstering an individual’s creative expression, featuring unique designs that invite individuals to “break free from societal norms and celebrate the beauty of diverse viewpoints,” he said. “This brand is a canvas for self-expression, an extraordinary journey that transcends fabric and stitches, inviting everyone to embrace the adventure and join a community that celebrates the beauty of being different.”
Smith runs multiple aspects of the business from design to operations.
“My role as a brand owner consists of being the driving force behind product development including designing products, order fulfillment, and the brand’s creative vision,” continued Smith. “Additionally, I specialize in international networking, fostering relationships with overseas manufacturers, and orchestrate in-person events, ensuring Unseen Perspectives consistently embodies its unique identity and values.”
Unique challenges
As both an undergraduate apparel and merchandising student and a brand owner, Smith faces many unique challenges, all of which strengthen his abilities in both roles.
One of the significant challenges that Smith faces when engaging in these dual roles is effective time management. Balancing each requires Smith to carefully plan a schedule around being a student and brand owner, allowing both to be feasible daily.
“Balancing the demands of designing, managing production, and overseeing the day-to-day operations of Unseen Perspectives with academic rigor at times becomes a delicate dance that necessitates strategic organization and prioritization,” Smith said.
In the ways that his experience as a brand owner helped his work as a student, Smith mentioned the most valuable skill he gained was consistency, in aspects of design quality, releases, and in his message when engaging in work in classes.
“In both realms being consistent goes a long way, because the more you keep trying at something the better you get,” Smith said.
Skills learned at CSU
Smith said the lessons and skills he had learned as a student in the Apparel and Merchandising Program have been helpful in his work for Unseen Perspectives, from product development to marketing and branding.
“Concepts and strategies learned in design and merchandising courses have directly influenced my approach to product development, ensuring that each piece reflects a cohesive brand identity,” Smith said. “Marketing and branding coursework has provided insights into crafting impactful campaigns, shaping how I present Unseen Perspectives across various platforms.”
While Smith had some knowledge prior to attending CSU, he said “the knowledge gained from coursework serves as a practical guide, empowering me to navigate the complexities of the fashion industry and drive the success of Unseen Perspectives.”
Heading towards wider success
In his career, Smith mentioned one of his biggest successes, opening a pop-up shop in the summer of 2023, especially after taking a hiatus from work on Unseen Perspectives. It was also the brand’s first.
“To be able to come back and see the results and impact that it had was truly mesmerizing to me,” said Smith. “I remember dreaming about hosting a pop-up shop in my dorm room freshman year, day in and day out, so to have one and see those results was a full circle moment for me.”
For his future goals, Smith wants to be involved in the fashion industry as much as possible, including roles such as modeling, styling, creative directing, and influencing, as well as opening Unseen Perspectives stores in the U.S. and globally.
Smith has found that the most valuable part of his experience at CSU has been the connections he has built.
“Engaging with people who have a similar interest has allowed me to meet interesting individuals, fostering relationships that have enhanced my college journey,” Smith said. “Additionally, my adviser and faculty members have played a positive role, providing valuable guidance and support during my time at CSU.”
The Department of Design and Merchandising is part of CSU’s College of Health and Human Sciences.
