Podcast Summary: Let's Get Dressed - "What Cass D'Amico Wears To Run Her Eight-Figure Accessories Business, Aureum Collective"

Released on November 18, 2024, "Let's Get Dressed" hosted by Liv Perez delves into the world of fashion accessories with Cass D'Amico, the founder of Orium Collective. This episode explores the nuances of building a successful accessories brand, personal style philosophies, and the evolving trends in fashion.

1. Introduction and Guest Overview

Liv Perez kicks off the episode by highlighting the resurgence of belts in contemporary fashion. She introduces Cass D'Amico, founder and fashion influencer behind Orium Collective, a brand renowned for its high-end yet approachable accessories.

"Belts are definitely having a moment, which is why I'm so excited to welcome on Orium Collective founder and fashion influencer Cass D'Amico..." [01:05]

Cass returns as a repeat guest, underscoring her significant role in the show's narrative.

2. Cass's Multifaceted Role in Building Orium Collective

Cass shares insights into her diverse responsibilities, emphasizing the challenges of managing creative directions while striving to delegate tasks effectively.

"When you're in a creative field, it's even harder to find someone that aligns with your tastes and can kind of take over what you're doing..." [03:13]

Liv commends Cass’s ability to juggle multiple roles, from creative directing to social media management, which has been pivotal in Orium Collective’s growth.

3. Personal Style and Wardrobe Ethos

Cass elaborates on her minimalist approach to daily dressing, emphasizing the significance of accessories in elevating simple outfits.

"Our ethos at Orium is the art of accessorizing. Dress simply. Let your accessories be what's making the statement." [04:14]

She prefers a foundational wardrobe of comfortable jeans and simple tops, allowing her accessories to add flair and personality to her looks.

4. Closet Organization: Open vs. Closed Closets

Cass discusses her closet organization strategy, opting for an open wardrobe to maintain simplicity and ease of access.

"I just wanted to make it really simple to see everything and have it, like, curated." [10:09]

She prefers hanging all her clothes to avoid the chaos of folded garments, aligning with her preference for a streamlined and organized wardrobe.

5. The Centrality of Accessories, Especially Belts

Belts are the focal point of Cass’s accessory strategy. She emphasizes their versatility and ability to transform outfits from basic to chic.

"I wear about every single day now when I get dressed. It's, I feel weird without something on. It's the best accessory to pull your look together." [22:31]

Liv echoes this sentiment, noting how a well-chosen belt can elevate a simple pair of jeans and a white tee.

6. Finding and Developing Personal Style

Cass offers practical advice on discovering one’s personal style, recommending tools like Pinterest for inspiration and encouraging trial and error through experimenting with different looks.

"Just have a Sunday to try things on. Figure out what you're missing... It’s about trial and error." [16:41]

She stresses the importance of understanding what resonates personally and building a wardrobe that reflects individual preferences.

7. Launching Orium Collective: Overcoming Challenges

Cass recounts the inception of Orium Collective, driven by the absence of affordable, high-quality accessories in the market. Partnering with her husband, they aimed to fill this gap with meticulously crafted pieces.

"I felt like there wasn't any jewelry brands that had this more fashion-forward, like fashion house feel... but more affordable." [20:31]

She highlights the strategic decision to focus on quality and design over aggressive marketing, which has significantly contributed to the brand’s success.

8. Trends vs. Timeless Accessories

Discussing current trends, Cass differentiates between fleeting fads and enduring styles. She advocates for incorporating timeless pieces that offer longevity in one’s wardrobe.

"If you love it and you wear it a lot, then you'll have it in your closet forever." [35:21]

Cass emphasizes the importance of selecting accessories that resonate personally rather than simply following seasonal trends.

9. Styling Tips and Accessory DNA

Cass advises on building a capsule accessories wardrobe by selecting pieces that align with one’s personal style and can be mixed and matched effortlessly.

"Figure out what speaks to you. Try one piece at a time. Try a cool statement earring, see how much you wear it." [31:49]

She encourages confidence in experimenting with accessories, ensuring that each piece enhances and elevates overall outfits.

10. Orium Collective’s Rapid Growth and Success Factors

Cass attributes Orium Collective’s impressive growth to timely category launches, trend forecasting, and unwavering commitment to quality.

"A lot of it had to do with launching the new categories... our quality speaks for itself." [36:00]

She notes that high repeat customer rates and strategic presence in stores like Nordstrom have bolstered the brand’s reputation and reach.

11. Final Advice for Aspiring Brand Founders

Cass offers heartfelt advice to budding entrepreneurs, emphasizing the necessity of a genuine purpose behind launching a brand.

"You have to have a reason why the world doesn't need more products in the space... genuinely be connected to that." [38:58]

She underscores that authenticity and passion are crucial for long-term success and brand sustainability.

12. Conclusion and Special Offers

The episode concludes with Liv and Cass sharing exclusive discount codes for Orium Collective, encouraging listeners to explore and enhance their accessory collections.

"If you guys want to shop Orium Collective, you can go to OriumCollective.com. Use our code 'dressed20' to get 20% off." [39:43]

Notable Takeaways:

• The Power of Accessories: Cass underscores how essential accessories, particularly belts, are in transforming and personalizing everyday outfits.

• Building a Brand with Purpose: Authenticity and a clear vision are paramount in creating a sustainable and successful fashion brand.

• Personal Style Evolution: Regularly reassessing and streamlining one’s wardrobe can lead to a more cohesive and expressive personal style.

Quotes to Remember:

• "Our ethos at Orium is the art of accessorizing. Dress simply. Let your accessories be what's making the statement." — Cass D'Amico [04:14]

• "You have to have a reason why the world doesn't need more products in the space... genuinely be connected to that." — Cass D'Amico [38:58]

This episode of "Let's Get Dressed" offers invaluable insights into the intersection of personal style and brand building, making it a must-listen for fashion enthusiasts and aspiring entrepreneurs alike.