9/20/2012

Q&A with Tina: Founder of Tees by Tina




Inspired by a desire to maintain a quality wardrobe without having to completely rehaul her closet during weight fluxations, Tina (pictured above) developed a line of “One Size Fits Most” wardrobe essentials that adjust to fit a woman’s body. Flattering silhouettes and patterns make Tees by Tina timeless staples that serve as layering basics, outlasting trends and more importanly, inevitable weight discrepancies.



Haute Americana: What inspired you to create a line of “One Size Fits Most
(2-22)” tees and tanks?
Tina: After going through several stages of my life – pregnancy, gaining weight, losing weight – I realized that I wanted clothes that would adapt to my body. There’s always a dilemma I face when I find a particular piece of clothing I really enjoy – will this still fit me next year? Tees by Tina was created with that concept in mind. We ultimately designed a line of clothing that accommodates the inevitable changes, the trials and triumphs, of a women’s figure while still keeping it stylish and versatile.



HA: Explain how the fabric you use accommodates “One Size Fits Most (2-22)?”
Tina: Our fabric blend in 92% nylon and 8% spandex. This blend allows a wonderful stretch while still retaining its original shape. We’ve had customers wear Tees by Tina through nine months of pregnancy and afterwards – it still fit perfectly!






HA: Where is your line produced and how many employees do you staff?
Tina: We produce exclusively in the U.S.A. and have 10 full-time equivalent team members.



HA: What are the biggest benefits you’ve experienced by keeping production local?
Tina: By keeping production local, we believe we produce a higher quality of product. It also provides a quick turnaround and ease in our product development process, both of which are important characteristics in our ‘Made In U.S.A.’ business model.



HA: Why do you think now is such a prime time for the resurgence of ‘Made in the U.S.A.’ sentiment?
Tina: I believe a confluence of factors are resulting in the resurgence of the ‘Made in the U.S.A.’ sentiment. The most obvious factor is the struggling economy and the community, fellow Americans, having an interest in helping put their fellow countrymen back to work. A less obvious one, but still equally important in my view, is the increasing recognition that ‘Made In America’ most often reflects a higher quality product. American Manufacturing is back to being world class whether it be the garment industry, automobiles or technology.






HA: What are your top three favorite American-made brands?
Tina: Bose – what is not to love about their styling and sound?
Stickly Furniture – Their craftsmanship is second to none.
Kohler – I love the way they combine flair and functionality to my kitchen and baths.



HA: Which item from your line has been getting the most wear lately?
Tina: We have really expanded our dress and skirt offerings – they are more comfortable and figure flattering. For me, chances are I will be wearing one of these. However, if I am just hanging around the house you are more likely to find me wearing our new Ombre Dye Leggings, which are absolutely amazing.



HA: Best career advice you’ve ever received?
Tina: “Plan for success not failure. Stop dreaming of success and do something about it.”





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