No Talent Hacks with Too Much Cash

Case in point: New York Magazine recently published an article about Heidi Montag's "Heidiwood" clothing line. Read

Now, I have no idea who Heidi Montag is or what she's famous for, but from what I've read on the gossip blogs she is well known for dating an idiot and crying in public. I am pretty positive she's not a designer, though, and it's doubtful she even has a degree. But she just launched a clothing line! Look how easy!

This is really a smack in the face for legitimate designers that are pinching pennies just to get samples made, hoping the buyers will order, and using all means necessary to distribute to as many locations as possible. We don't get to go straight to the top with nationwide distribution for zero effort. At least we can rest easy knowing our products are the result of careful craftsmanship, attention to detail, and honest-to-goodness creativity.

Rudyland is an idea that's been growing over the past 4 years. I've been incredibly meticulous during the whole process of selecting contractors and manufacturers to make sure my shirts are of the highest quality, and I've been there, to the cavernous warehouses on the outskirts on LA, watching over each step as my samples are made. It's with a sense of pride that I can say Rudyland is made in LA, is supporting the local community, and IS NOT using anything from American Apparel (ugh that guy is a perv, ew). I'm taking a huge risk; the economy isn't the greatest, and buyers aren't going to be willing to invest on a new line. I, and other local designers, don't get a free ride. We've got to struggle, but in the long run, talent and creativity will prevail.

In Heidi's case, even though she can buy her way to the top, her product quality will speak volumes over her cash. The Fug Girls sum up her line with a simple It was bad. So bad.