Q&A with Claire Sulmers, Creator of FashionBomb Daily
Fashion has a duality about it being both inspirational & aspirational. This is also a great way to describe the creator of FashionBomb Daily, Claire Sulmers! I came across the site years ago online and it is one of my go-to pages especially when Instagram began, providing the best research for looks celebs wore in record time, as well as, an inclusive community to showcase trends and styles while also providing an introduction, specifically to Black Designers, whom were not getting the recognition in other outlets. Claire saw a gaping hole online years ago with the lack of representation & coverage and now continues to be The destination! In the interview, Claire speaks about her thought process about writing her memoir, pivoting the site & her personal brand, and what’s next for fashion!
What was the motivation/ prompt to write your book?
One of the questions I am frequently asked is ‘How did you Start Blogging”? I decided to write a book to answer some Frequently Asked Questions, while also giving aspiring industry insiders tips and tools on how they can build their brands as well.
What tips can you offer creators now that are looking to launch a site /brand versus when you began?
Start where you are with what you have. Huge designers can be made just through having a Shopify store and an Instagram account. The barrier to entry is lower. Use whatever tools you have at your fingertips.
How have you had to pivot with the site and your personal brand in the midst of everything going on?
Pre-Covid I was always flying around going to, speaking at, or hosting events. Now I am quarantined, but focusing more on writing and building our social media and e-commerce platform, FashionBombDailyShop.com. There is absolutely nothing ‘secure’ about being an entrepreneur, so it’s always prudent to be ready to shift and pivot when circumstances change.
What do you see as the future of fashion with everyone needing to stay inside now?
The future forecasts 3D fashion shows, virtual experiences, and 5G capabilities that will allow us to have enhanced shopping experiences from our sofas.
What have been some of your personal highlights /particular posts with the site that you felt really shifted or shined a spotlight on Black designers?
A highlight for me was when I wrote about the Black Panther Premiere and how so few of the celebrities on the carpet wore Black Designers (https://fashionbombdaily.com/black-designers-black-panther-premiere-10-red-carpet-ready-black-designers-know/) . Black Panther was a blockbuster movie, and showed that movies with majority black casts can sell. The film grossed $1.23 Billion worldwide--the premiere was the perfect time for black actors and actresses to show love to Black Designers. Some didn’t think to do so, but I believe after our post, actresses from Gabrielle Union to Tracee Ellis Ross to Issa Rae started to pay attention, and use opportunities where they had a huge platform, to also share the spotlight with black fashion creatives.
Thoughts on CFDA hiring there first Black President CaSandra Diggs.
It’s about time. I wrote to the CFDA in 2016 suggesting a Diversity Committee. My proposal was ignored until the murders of George Floyd and Breonna Taylor and the eruption of the Black Lives Matter Movement. I think it’s great that the CFDA is finally taking some action on a pernicious problem we have all been keenly aware of for a very long time.
What about fashion that still brings you joy in the midst of being immersed in it for so long?
I love to empower others through fashion, whether that’s helping someone feel more confident or helping them with their business. Fashion is fun and magical, but immersing myself in the Business of Fashion, and helping others along the way, brings me the most joy and fulfillment. I love providing a platform for others to shine.
What are some of your go to designers and items that you are loving in these times?
I always love Balmain. I once said that I wanted a Balmain jacket in every color, and I am definitely close to fulfilling that goal! I also love designers we stock in Fashion Bomb Daily Shop: Sai Sankoh, Frances Grey, SybGCo, Rayar Jeans, Oyemwen, Arianne Elmy, S Denton Collection, and more. Lastly, I have a soft spot for Brooklyn Designers like Ashaka Givens, J Bailey, Pyer Moss, Aliette, and Fe Noel.
What’s next for the site and your personal brand?
Next up for us is TV! We would love added exposure to all that we do, and would love a bigger platform to empower even more people!
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Photo Credit : Nykielle
