Small businesses use art and fashion to grow during worldwide pandemic
With the continuous spread and impact of COVID-19, many of us are becoming more restless while stuck at home. Quarantine has been a different experience for many of us. It has allowed some of us to tap into our creativity while trying to keep busy and stay optimistic. Meanwhile, other people are picking up new hobbies- painting, yoga, baking - to name a few. Then there are people like me who found an escape through binge-watching Netflix, Hulu, HBO and Amazon shows. But, there is a growing group of people who took things a step further and found their sanctuary by growing their small business.
Recently, due to the virus, there's been an uptick of people purchasing from and supporting small businesses. Businesses like:
The Groovy Crew
The Groovy Crew is a small business and brand based in Carson, CA. Each and every design is created by the creator, Chidinma Azinge. Since the start of quarantine, new designs were released and fan favorites were restocked. (Photo creds: @thegroovycrew on Instagram)
La Gran Tenochtitlan
La Gran Tenochtitlan is a fashion brand based in Sacramento, CA. It is heavily inspired by Mexican culture. They recently launched these masks that are not only cute but also help stop the spread of COVID. (Photo creds: @lagrantenochtitlan_ on Instagram)
Pressed Addict Nails
Pressed Addict Nails is pressed on nail brand. All sets are hand painted and customers are able to order custom sets. (Photo creds: @pressedaddictnails on Instagram)
Many of these small businesses design their pieces from scratch. They find their inspiration from a range of items. From song lyrics, to their favorite music artist (Harry Styles inspired products seem to be popular on the internet), vintage clothing that has been up-cycled.
The idea of small businesses creating unique items from the comfort of their own homes is going viral. With the use of various social media platforms, like TikTok and Instagram, it’s become so much easier to reach your new target audiences.
Graphics by Gabi
Graphics by Gabi is a graphic design brand that takes inspiration from prominent pop culture figures, like Harry Styles and A$AP Rocky. Her following sprouted from a few viral TikToks showcasing her Harry Styles art. (Photo creds: @graphics.by.gabi on Instagram)
Belexie Shoppe
Belexie Shoppe is an accessory account run by two sisters. They sell their products on Depop and restock every Friday. (Photo creds: @belexieshoppe on Instagram)
ETSY and Depop shops are booming with new designs, from stickers, to t-shirts and accessories, you name it. Because everyone is spending more time on the internet, we have the chance to explore all of these different small businesses and support creative minds.
The coolest thing about this growing trend is creators are able to connect with their buyers through their creativity, art, design, and fashion. As the great Blair Waldorf, from the hit TV show Gossip Girl, once said, “Fashion is the most powerful art there is. It's movement, design, and architecture all in one. It shows the world who we are and who we'd like to be."