Enjoy the ride.
A Sunday affirmation? Yes.
Am I about to introduce you to a brand that has perfected the art of transforming the inspiration behind its apparel into captivating experiences? Also yes.
This past weekend I had my best friend from college in town and we did ALLLLLLL the LA things.
As we shopped in Santa Monica boutiques I was introduced to Aviator Nation, a brand founded by Paige Mycoskie, a female entrepreneur that I will add to my growing list to fangirl over.
Apparently I have been living under a rock for not knowing about this brand, but now that I am familiar with the brand and did my research, I am obsessed.
I like the apparel, yes. But what hooked me was her store in Malibu called “Dreamland”.
You walk in on the retail side and see her iconic smiley face sweatpants and striped hoodies everywhere. Gen Z and Gen X alike audibly expressing our approval of the colorful clothes as we touch every piece. Talking with one of the store employees I learned that every piece of Aviator Nation apparel is sketched by Mycoskie and hand-made in a California factory.
Ok, I am in love.
But what made me into a self-proclaimed Aviator Nation brand ambassador was the EXPERIENCE she has created out of Dreamland. Look to your left and immediately you are transported to 1975. The bar and concert venue effortlessly takes you on a nostalgic journey to the 1970s, the era that inspired Aviator Nation’s clothing line.
- The Doors were playing.
- A yellow tint on the windows casts this retro glow on everything that is hard to describe but added to the experience.
- The furniture, couches and rugs all look like photos from my parent’s first home.
- And apparently Paul McCartney’s guitarist had a show there last night.
- I felt like I was part of Daisy Jones and the Six!
Every single person who walked in commented out loud, “oh wow.” It was evident that Aviator Nation had created a captivating space that resonated with its audience.
Branding is more than just a logo or a product; it’s about the emotions it elicits, the stories it tells, and the experiences it offers. Aviator Nation’s success, with $130 million in sales in 2022 and just announcing its first brick and mortar store in SoHo, is a testament to the strength of a brand that stays true to its roots and remains independent.
Bravo, Paige Mycoskie and Aviator Nation for reminding us of the profound impact of branding. You have shown us that when a brand has the power to evoke emotions and create unforgettable experiences, it becomes a memorable part of our lives.
Enjoy the ride, and may we all be inspired to create or work for brands that leave a lasting impact on the hearts of our audience.
Let’s Grow! 🌱
