In a world that often prioritizes conformity, there's a brand that dares to be different. Here's 2 You, founded by indigenous entrepreneur Hud Oberly, is more than just a clothing line – it's a movement that encourages everyone to embrace their inner creative. This brand is redefining self-expression through fashion while challenging cultural stereotypes and fostering a vibrant community of artists and innovators.
The Genesis of Here's 2 You
A Vision Born from Heritage
Hud Oberly, an Osage, Caddo, and Comanche descendant, didn't set out to create just another fashion brand. Instead, he envisioned a platform that would embody the values instilled in him through his indigenous upbringing:
- Attention to detail
- Keen observation
- The importance of community
These principles became the foundation of Here's 2 You, a brand that, while not overtly showcasing Native American designs, is deeply rooted in Oberly's cultural heritage.
Oberly's journey as an entrepreneur is intrinsically linked to his identity as an indigenous person. Growing up, he was exposed to the rich artistic traditions of his ancestors, from intricate beadwork to storytelling through visual art. This early exposure to creativity as a form of cultural expression laid the groundwork for what would eventually become Here's 2 You.
Crafting the Brand Identity
Before launching his first product, Oberly took a crucial step that many entrepreneurs overlook – he created a comprehensive creative brief. This process involved:
- Defining the brand's unique selling proposition
- Identifying the target audience
- Determining the most effective products to convey the brand message
Through this exercise, Oberly crystalized his vision: to convince everyone that they are inherently creative, using clothing as the medium for this empowering message.
The creative brief process took several months, during which Oberly conducted extensive market research and soul-searching. He studied successful lifestyle brands like Supreme and Stüssy, analyzing how they built cult followings through limited releases and collaborations. However, he was determined to infuse Here's 2 You with a deeper sense of purpose.
The Art of Intentional Launch
Beyond the Basic Tee
When Here's 2 You made its debut in 2018, Oberly made a bold choice. Instead of starting with simple screen-printed t-shirts or hats, he opted for a more intricate, handmade item. This decision was strategic, aimed at making a strong first impression:
"I wanted people's first impression to be like, 'This is intentional. It's handmade,'" Oberly explains.
The brand's first product was a meticulously crafted leather wallet, each one hand-stitched and embossed with the Here's 2 You logo. This approach immediately set Here's 2 You apart in a crowded marketplace, signaling to potential customers that this was a brand with depth and purpose.
Breaking Cultural Stereotypes
Oberly's vision extends beyond just creating unique clothing. He's on a mission to challenge preconceptions about Native designers and artists:
"I want people to make what makes them happy, whether that's using the indigenous symbols and traditional motifs or not," Oberly asserts.
This philosophy opens up new avenues for self-expression, encouraging artists from all backgrounds to create without feeling confined by cultural expectations. It's a bold stance, particularly in an era where cultural appropriation is a hot-button issue. Oberly navigates this complex terrain by emphasizing authenticity and personal expression over stereotypical representations of indigenous art.
Fostering Creativity and Community
The Power of Small Details
Here's 2 You's approach to fostering creativity is both subtle and impactful. Something as simple as adding a patch to a work shirt can make customers feel like they're part of something larger. Oberly's goal is clear:
"I want people to feel like they're a part of the Here's 2 You creative department."
This sense of belonging is a powerful motivator for self-expression and creativity. The brand has introduced several products designed to spark creativity in everyday life:
- Customizable notebooks with inspirational prompts
- Artisan-made pens that double as sculpture pieces
- Limited edition "creativity kits" filled with art supplies and exercises
These products serve as tangible reminders to embrace creativity in daily life, turning mundane objects into sources of inspiration.
Beyond Clothing: Creating Experiences
The brand's commitment to nurturing creativity extends beyond its products. Here's 2 You hosts events that bring the community together and spark creativity:
Summer Art Camp: An annual event where attendees of all ages come together to paint, sculpt, and explore various artistic mediums. In 2022, over 500 people participated, creating a vibrant outdoor gallery of diverse artworks.
Meet-and-Greet Sessions: Monthly opportunities for customers to connect with local artists. These events often feature live demonstrations, Q&A sessions, and collaborative art projects.
Creative Workshops: Quarterly skill-sharing sessions led by experts in fields ranging from digital illustration to traditional weaving techniques.
These initiatives create a vibrant, inclusive creative community that aligns perfectly with the brand's core values. By fostering face-to-face interactions and hands-on experiences, Here's 2 You is building a loyal following that extends far beyond its product line.
The Power of Collaboration
Oberly is quick to acknowledge that building a successful business is not a solo endeavor. He emphasizes the importance of:
- Building a network of collaborators
- Continuously meeting new people
- Staying open to fresh ideas and perspectives
While this constant networking can be challenging, Oberly recognizes it as a crucial component of his brand's success. He credits much of Here's 2 You's growth to strategic partnerships with:
- Local artisans who contribute to limited edition collections
- Social media influencers who align with the brand's values
- Non-profit organizations focused on arts education and cultural preservation
These collaborations not only expand the brand's reach but also infuse it with diverse perspectives and skills, keeping the creative output fresh and exciting.
Inspiring Others Through Action
Here's 2 You isn't just about selling clothes or hosting events. It's about setting an example and inspiring others to pursue their passions:
"I'm on my own path that hopefully motivates other people to not just do what I do, but do what makes them happy," Oberly shares.
This philosophy encapsulates the essence of Here's 2 You – a brand that encourages individuals to chart their own creative courses. Oberly frequently speaks at schools and community centers, sharing his entrepreneurial journey and emphasizing the importance of embracing one's unique voice.
The Future of Creativity in Fashion
Embracing Technology and Sustainability
As we look towards 2025 and beyond, Here's 2 You is poised to embrace emerging trends in the fashion industry:
AI-Assisted Design: The brand is exploring partnerships with tech startups to incorporate artificial intelligence into its design process. This could lead to hyper-personalized products that adapt to each customer's unique style and preferences.
Sustainable Materials: Here's 2 You is committed to reducing its environmental impact. Future collections will feature fabrics made from recycled ocean plastics, biodegradable algae-based materials, and other eco-friendly innovations.
Virtual Try-On Experiences: To enhance online shopping, the brand is developing an augmented reality app that allows customers to virtually "try on" clothes and accessories before purchasing.
Blockchain for Authenticity: Here's 2 You is considering implementing blockchain technology to create digital certificates of authenticity for limited edition pieces, ensuring transparency and combating counterfeits.
These innovations will allow Here's 2 You to continue pushing the boundaries of creativity while maintaining its commitment to sustainability and inclusivity.
Expanding the Creative Ecosystem
The future of Here's 2 You extends beyond clothing. Plans are in motion to:
Launch a digital platform for aspiring designers, providing resources, tutorials, and a marketplace for emerging artists to showcase their work.
Create collaborative collections with artists from diverse backgrounds, highlighting unique cultural perspectives and fostering cross-cultural dialogue through fashion.
Establish a mentorship program for young creatives, pairing experienced designers and entrepreneurs with up-and-coming talent to nurture the next generation of innovators.
Open a flagship store that doubles as a community art space, featuring rotating exhibitions, interactive installations, and areas for customers to create their own art on-site.
By expanding its reach and impact, Here's 2 You aims to become a global hub for creative expression and community building.
Lessons for Aspiring Creatives
Here's 2 You's journey offers valuable insights for anyone looking to unleash their inner creative:
Start with intention: Define your values and vision before launching your project. Oberly's careful planning and brand development process laid a strong foundation for Here's 2 You's success.
Embrace your unique perspective: Your background and experiences are your greatest assets. Oberly's indigenous heritage informs his brand without limiting its appeal.
Build a supportive community: Surround yourself with like-minded individuals who inspire and challenge you. Here's 2 You's events and collaborations create a nurturing environment for creativity to flourish.
Don't be afraid to break molds: Challenge stereotypes and expectations in your field. Here's 2 You's approach to indigenous representation and creativity sets it apart from conventional fashion brands.
Continuously learn and adapt: Stay open to new ideas and technologies that can enhance your creative process. Here's 2 You's embrace of AI, sustainable materials, and digital platforms demonstrates a commitment to innovation.
Focus on experiences, not just products: Create meaningful interactions that go beyond transactions. Here's 2 You's workshops and community events build lasting connections with customers.
Use your platform responsibly: As your influence grows, consider how you can give back and inspire others. Oberly's mentorship efforts and community outreach exemplify this principle.
Conclusion: The Power of Creative Self-Expression
Here's 2 You is more than just a clothing brand – it's a testament to the transformative power of creative self-expression. By encouraging individuals to embrace their creativity, Hud Oberly and his team are fostering a community where innovation, self-confidence, and cultural appreciation thrive.
As we move into an increasingly digital and interconnected world, brands like Here's 2 You remind us of the importance of staying true to our unique voices and perspectives. Whether through fashion, art, or any other medium, the message is clear: your creativity matters, and it has the power to inspire and change the world around you.
The success of Here's 2 You also highlights a growing trend in consumer preferences. People are increasingly drawn to brands that offer more than just products – they want to be part of a movement, to feel connected to something larger than themselves. By tapping into this desire for meaning and community, Here's 2 You has positioned itself at the forefront of a new wave of purpose-driven businesses.
As we look to the future, the potential for brands like Here's 2 You to shape culture and drive positive change is immense. By blending traditional craftsmanship with cutting-edge technology, fostering inclusive communities, and championing individual expression, they are redefining what it means to be a successful business in the 21st century.
So, the next time you feel the spark of a creative idea, remember the ethos of Here's 2 You. Embrace it, nurture it, and share it with the world. After all, creativity is not just a skill – it's a way of life that enriches us all. In the words of Hud Oberly, "Here's to you, and here's to unleashing the creative spirit within us all."
