5 Women Behind Fashion Startups Share the Biggest Lessons They've Learned

"Mistakes happen, but it's how you deal with them that defines the success of your brand. Fashion is notoriously filled with ups and downs. Whether you make a poor decision or your factory is delayed or your sampling isn't quite right or a store drops the collection, there is no point sweating it because every brand big and small experiences this. Keeping cool-headed and finding a solution is the key to recovery—you can always bounce back. Just make sure to learn from the experience."

Bower is a luxury swimwear brand inspired by strong female figures.

"Understand that focus is everything. Stay true to your intentions and avoid getting sidetracked from your ultimate goal—whether that's a vision for your brand or a vision for your business. By clearly defining your goals, you can use them as a measure to fuel growth. Also, align yourself with people you admire and can learn from, and talk to as many people as possible who have done something similar—you'll need them as mentors. You'd be surprised how many people are jumping over the same hurdles, and an understanding ear or shoulder to lean on is an amazing asset to have."

AYR is an independent clothing brand for independent women, based in NYC.

"Good ideas don't have expiration dates. There's so much competition—especially in New York—and fashion is changing at a breakneck speed. It's easy to get caught up worrying about what other people are doing and to think that if you don't act on your ideas as quickly as possible, then someone else will come along and do it first or better. But I've found that anything done with conviction, passion, and authenticity will inevitably be unique. It takes time, maybe even years, for ideas to fully form, but they are always the better for it. So, worry less and take your time."

Bird is Brooklyn's premier women's wear boutique, with three locations around the borough.

"Build your own community. You'll need people who are in or have been in your shoes as you embark on this adventure, so don't be afraid to step outside of your comfort zone and work to meet these new people. I left a corporate job to start my own business, and my entire network at the time consisted of people who worked for big companies and who often couldn't relate to what I was going through. My new community got me through the toughest times."

The American Edit is a blog, podcast, and agency celebrating brands that manufacture in the Unites States.

"My dad always told me: It pays to be nice. That adage is age-old, but so much of the industry relies upon networking, collaboration, and referrals, that now it's more important than ever. Make friends with potential associates, but, more importantly, take those friendships one step further. Invite them to cocktails, a coffee, a barbecue. Follow them on Instagram and keep up with what they're doing. Ask them about it the next time you see them. Not only can you gain some amazing friends, but when they're working on their next project you'll be top of mind."

The Marcy Stop is a Brooklyn-based fashion and personal style blog.