Daryl Inyang is a young entrepreneur from Geneva. She created the brand The French 95 with vibrant, bold, and colorful clothes for a reasonable price. Her clients are her best models and they are loyal as they want to support local businesses. We discussed her experience starting a business, her determination to carry it through, and her motivation to succeed.
How did you decide to start The French 95?
When you have a small budget, it is difficult not to turn to major retailers when shopping for clothing. I used to order abroad in order to find the perfect outfit within my budget. This is how the idea of an online clothing shop came to me. I wanted to be able to offer what major retailers offer: trendy everyday looks at an affordable price. However, do it differently, in smaller quantities, offering bold styles, always being available to customers, and in an environmental-friendly way. So rather than turning to major retailers, why not shop with a Swiss brand?
This is not your primary job, as it is for many other small entrepreneurs. How do you find the time for your small business?
It is a lot of work, but it’s really all about planning ahead and being organized.
I am passionate about what I do, therefore I do not count the hours. When I have some free time, I usually find myself working on my shop. However, I must say, it’s also important to take a break and give your mind some time to rest. This is why I try to set times during which I am not allowed to work; if not, I think I would work 24/7. A lot of times, when I am stuck, that’s all I need to find inspiration and motivation.
What was the most challenging part of your entrepreneurial journey?
When I launched my online shop, I was doing every single thing by myself. It felt overwhelming at times, and I felt like giving up. Also, I think that once your business is launched, keeping it ‘alive’ is another difficult part. In the first few months or even a year, you don’t necessarily see the results of all the effort you put into it. You really have to be patient and show perseverance.
What advice would you give to women who are considering starting a small business?
First, you don’t have to do it all by yourself. There is always someone in your circle who might be able to help, assist, or guide you. This is something I learned quickly. I am not talking about hiring people but simply relying on people you may know to help with little tasks or give you advice, or even other small business owners. They are going through the same thing; it doesn’t hurt to reach out and see how you can help one another. It will save you a lot of time. And second, be patient, it takes time to launch a business and even more time to run a successful business (I am still waiting :)).The first year is a struggle, but you have to keep going. And finally, if you don’t love what you do, don’t do it.
How would you describe The French 95 collection?
The French 95, just like the original cocktail, is vibrant, bold, and colorful.
What is your target audience?
Women who want to feel confident in their clothes, ages 18 to 55, interested in fashion without necessarily being fashionistas, living in Switzerland or nearby, with a small budget for shopping.
Why do people love to buy from small businesses?
The proximity to the business, the fact that you can approach the business, knowing that it’s an actual human being working behind the curtains and not a machine, They want to support local businesses, learn about their work, work process, and history, and reduce their impact on the environment. Acquiring unique products makes them even more special.
