A Conversation with the Founder on Inclusive Luxury, Authentic Growth, and Owning Her Narrative
In the dynamic world of fashion and entrepreneurship, the journey of Ale’B Collection stands as a testament to vision, authenticity, and the power of inclusive luxury. From a personal passion for handbags to a burgeoning brand celebrated by notable figures, the story of Ale’B is one of intentional creation and unwavering purpose. Join us as we delve into a conversation with the founder, exploring the spark that ignited this inspiring venture, the definition and importance of “inclusive luxury,” the unique resilience of a Black woman-owned brand in today’s climate, and the guiding principles that have shaped Ale’B’s remarkable growth.
Your journey is incredibly inspiring—can you share what initially sparked the idea for the Ale’B Collection?
The inspiration behind ALE’B came from my long-standing desire to enter the fashion industry. Initially, I planned to establish ALE’B as a clothing brand, but as I engaged with family and friends, I realized that my extensive handbag collection, which I frequently rotate with my outfits, could be a unique focus. This revelation led me to conduct research and pull out every bag from my closet, taking notes on what I loved about each one. This process ultimately guided me in creating my own distinctive designs.
Ale’B stands at the intersection of luxury and purpose. How do you define “inclusive luxury,” and why is it so important to you?
I define inclusive luxury as breaking away from traditional norms and embracing diversity in all its forms. It’s essential for me to reach a broader audience than what is typically associated with the term “handbags” or “bags.” Inclusive luxury means creating products that resonate with people from various backgrounds, allowing everyone to feel valued and represented in the luxury space. This approach not only enriches the brand but also fosters a sense of belonging for all customers.
With DEI programs being scaled back, how have you been able to not just survive—but thrive—as a Black woman-owned brand in today’s climate?
Thriving in today’s economy is inherent to my journey as a Black woman-owned brand. In this current climate, being a Black female entrepreneur actually attracts consumers who appreciate authenticity. Unlike many luxury brands where ownership is often obscured, I offer a personal touch that allows customers to connect with me and my story. They can witness the brand’s evolution from its inception in August to where we are now, and they can anticipate the exciting moments ahead. By sharing my daily routines and dedication, I create a deeper bond with my audience, making them feel like they are part of the journey.
You’ve built your brand through community engagement, influencer support, and authenticity. What advice would you give to other emerging entrepreneurs about building real relationships?
Stay true to yourself and allow your personality to shine through. Authenticity is essential for forming real connections; people are more likely to relate to you when they perceive your genuine self. It’s important to express your passion for the path you’re on, as that enthusiasm will resonate with others and help establish meaningful relationships. Always remember that creating an environment where people feel understood and valued is crucial. You cannot expect others to believe in you if you don’t fully believe in yourself.
What were some of the biggest challenges you faced during your first six months, and how did you overcome them?
One of the most significant challenges I faced in the first six months was learning to manage negativity. I’ve always been inclined to defend myself and speak my mind, but I realized that responding to every criticism wasn’t productive. To overcome this, I began incorporating daily prayer and having open discussions with my godsister, which helped me understand the importance of choosing my battles wisely. I learned that the wrong response could ultimately harm me rather than the person on the other end.
In addition to that challenge, I also grappled with understanding the business side of things. I had to come to terms with some losses and work on finding a balance between being a single parent, a CEO, and making time for self-care. It’s been an ongoing journey, but each challenge has taught me valuable lessons about resilience and prioritization.
Ale’B has already been seen on notable names like Supa Cent and Bambi. How have celebrity endorsements helped shape the brand’s visibility?
Celebrity endorsements have marked a pivotal moment for ALE’B, significantly boosting our visibility and recognition. Bambi’s stunning feature with our XXL Zane bag in PopOut Magazine not only showcased our brand but also helped us reach a much wider audience. Supa has played a crucial role for ALE’B, bringing immense recognition and attention to our collection. Her genuine feedback resonates with consumers, making them more inclined to want an ALE’B bag, as they know they’re getting honest insights about our products. We are incredibly thankful for her support and her role as a brand ambassador, which continues to drive us forward. I truly want to take a moment to honor her and express our heartfelt gratitude!
Can you walk us through your design process? What inspires your bags, and what makes them stand out in the luxury market?
The inspiration for my unisex line comes from my goal to reach beyond a single demographic. While handbags are typically marketed towards women, I recognize that men are increasingly looking for brands that cater to their needs, particularly given the limited options available. With more men embracing the shopping experience, I saw an opportunity to create a luxurious brand that serves everyone, including women and children.
My creative process for the Signature Dream Collection is centered around the concept of permanence. Unlike the upcoming Fear Collection, which will feature limited designs and colors that won’t be restocked, the Dream Collection is intended to be a staple in my lineup. Once I have a clear vision, I start by sketching each detail with a tech pack that outlines dimensions, colors, materials, and branding elements. Once the design is finalized, it’s ready to be sent to the manufacturer.
When it comes to materials, my bags are made from premium leather, with some featuring embossed prints that not only add a stylish touch but also contribute to the conservation of crocodiles used in the process. A significant aspect that elevates the luxury experience of my bags is the use of suede for the interiors. This addition lends a rich, opulent feel that enhances the overall aesthetic and tactile experience of each piece, making them truly distinctive in the luxury market.
Sustainability and intention seem to be woven into the DNA of your business. How do you approach responsible growth in a fast-paced industry like fashion?
My approach to responsible growth in the fashion industry revolves around actively listening to my consumers while staying attuned to current trends. I believe that understanding what my customers prefer—whether it’s specific styles, colors, or potential new products—provides invaluable insight into making informed decisions. This feedback helps me gauge whether introducing a new product is likely to resonate with my audience or if it’s more of a gamble. By blending consumer input with trend awareness, I can ensure that my growth strategy is both responsible and aligned with what my customers truly want.
How has being based in New Orleans influenced your brand’s aesthetic and mission?
Although I hail from a small town called LaPlace, just 30 minutes outside of New Orleans, being close to the city has significantly influenced my brand’s mission of “Dream W/O Fear.” Witnessing the journeys of local entrepreneurs like Supa and Bodied By Brooke, who have worked tirelessly to achieve their success despite facing numerous challenges, has been incredibly inspiring. I believe there is a wealth of talent in my own town that often goes unnoticed, and I want to take the initiative to showcase that talent. My goal is to highlight the potential for success within our community and demonstrate that dreams can be realized, no matter where you come from.
What has been the most surprising or rewarding moment since launching Ale’B Collection?
The most fulfilling moments since launching the ALE’B Collection have been the incredible support I’ve received—not just in terms of sales, but also the encouraging words from both customers and fellow entrepreneurs who have been in my shoes and now run million-dollar businesses. There are times when I doubt my progress, forgetting how far I’ve come from just a simple idea to actually bringing it to life and overcoming the challenges along the way.
In a world that often overlooks Black women creators, what does owning your narrative mean to you—and how do you protect that?
Owning my narrative means that I have the sole authority to share my story and vision. I am the only one who truly understands the obstacles I’ve faced and overcome to shape the narrative I have today. To protect that narrative, I prioritize sharing my experiences openly and authentically. By allowing people to connect with me on a personal level, I provide them with my perspective without letting anyone else impose their ideas or concepts on my brand. This approach ensures that my story remains genuine and true to my journey.
What’s next for Ale’B Collection? Are there any new products, campaigns, or expansions we should look out for?
There are some thrilling developments on the horizon for Ale’B! We are currently designing new bags and also venturing into a travel line that I’m so anxiously excited about. We’ve received numerous requests for sandals, so we’re excited to incorporate those into our brand as well really soon.
On top of that, we’re collaborating with Rocket X Denim to create a unique denim collection, which we are working on. There’s so much to look forward to with ALE’B to expand the brand.
