By Theresa Moses
London-based menswear designer Bianca Saunders headlined the first masterclass of the GTCO Fashion Weekend on Saturday, November 8th titled “The Business of Creativity: Scaling a Fashion Brand Beyond Wholesale.” Blending her British upbringing with Jamaican roots, Saunders shared insights that left young designers inspired and empowered to rethink how creativity and commerce can coexist.
Speaking with passion and authenticity, Saunders emphasized that success in the global fashion space begins with storytelling and originality. “Your point of view is your power,” she told participants, adding that designers must resist the urge to imitate trends and instead focus on narratives that reflect their true identities.
She revealed how her journey — from launching her brand to showcasing in Paris and collaborating with major global fashion houses — was built on a foundation of empathy, cultural connection, and consistency. “I wanted to explore masculinity in a way that wasn’t about strength or softness, but about storytelling,” she said. “That’s what helped me define my brand and connect with audiences around the world.”
On balancing creativity with the realities of business, Saunders admitted that every designer must learn to “wear multiple hats.” From managing production and tailoring to marketing and partnerships, she described fashion as a strategic ecosystem rather than a spontaneous art form. “In fashion, everything is intentional. You need creativity, but you also need structure,” she noted.
Reflecting on her experience showing in Paris, Saunders encouraged designers to stay grounded in their roots. “When I first showed there, I didn’t want to become like every other designer. I wanted to show who I am,” she explained. “That’s the key to building something that lasts — people want to understand you, not your imitation of someone else.”
Addressing challenges in the African fashion landscape, Saunders acknowledged the production and distribution hurdles that many local designers face, such as limited textile manufacturing and supply chain access. Still, she maintained that technology and global connectivity offer new pathways for visibility. “The internet is your biggest runway,” she said. “Instagram and Facebook helped me build connections that led to international collaborations.”
During the interactive session, Saunders offered practical advice to young designers seeking to scale their brands beyond wholesale and retail. She urged them to:
1. Start now — “Don’t wait for everything to be perfect.”
2. Create products that excite people, not just friends or family.
3. Be clear and consistent in your storytelling to build a brand identity that resonates globally.
She also reflected on her philosophy of measuring success beyond money. “For me, it’s about community — about being accepted and connecting with people who value my story,” she said.
The session ended with a powerful reminder: authenticity is the new global currency. Saunders encouraged African designers to merge creativity with confidence, storytelling with structure, and identity with innovation.
“Don’t trade your originality for acceptance,” she concluded. “Your story is what makes your brand valuable.”
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