So far, we’ve discussed 2 of 7 essential elements to building a brand: Knowing who you are as a person and knowing where you want your brand to be in 6 months. This assignment focuses even more specifically on your brands’ specific style DNA.
If someone were to ask you to state, in just a few words, what your brand’s style is, could you do it? Now, you might think this is an abstract concept, and to some extent you’re right. But in the creative universe, style is a huge factor to consider. Let me explain why.
As a blogger, I’m definitely looking for a specific style to feature on the LAB. I’m attracted to a very modern aesthetic, with touches of bohemian and organic influences. It’s not that I don’t appreciate other styles and genres of handmade goods. It’s just who I am and what resonates with me. Hence, there are artisans who’ve asked to be featured on the LAB and I’ve had to politely decline. But that shouldn’t be the end of the road for them. There are other bloggers who have a taste for a different style aesthetic and who would be glad to promote artists that I would not. Frankly, they would do a much better job than I would.
The thing I always ask when this happens is: how did the artist not know that I probably wouldn’t feature them? If they had looked at my site, they should have been able to see that I feature a very specific vein of handmade goods. What this tells me is that identifying their own style DNA is either not a priority or they just don’t know what it is. And that, my friends, is sad.
If you love to make, you should know who you are and what you are. If you are folksy, be proud of being folksy! Edgy? Stand in your edginess! When you claim your own style DNA, it helps you to collaborate with those best suited to support and promote you. It helps you to style the right branding for what you do. That sense of style ownership will solidify your brand and strengthen your resolve to create.
So, here’s the assignment: In just a few words, describe your style. Is there an item in your shop that really exemplifies what your style DNA is? If so, share a link to it. If you are having trouble identifying your style, perhaps the rest of the community can help you find it, polish it up and make it shine.