Newsletter 42: Trending towards Millionsđź’¸
HEY CONVERSION QUEENS 💸👑
Have you ever wondered how a bedroom startup could disrupt the fast fashion industry?
This week, we’re diving into the inspiring story of Odd Muse and its founder, Aimee Smale. From solving real problems with timeless designs to building an organic, loyal following through authentic storytelling, Odd Muse offers invaluable lessons for creating a brand that resonates and converts. Let’s break it down!
SIS, LET’S CATCH A CASE
TIMELESS SUCCESS THAT TRANSCENDS TRENDS
Odd Muse was founded in 2020 by Aimee Smale, inspired by her vision to redefine wardrobe staples. During the global pandemic, Smale recognized a significant gap in the market: the need for high-quality, versatile pieces that could transcend fleeting fashion trends. Leveraging her experience in the fashion industry, she launched Odd Muse with a single hero product—the Ultimate Muse Blazer. Designed to provide women with a timeless and practical wardrobe essential, the blazer epitomized the brand’s ethos of “buy less, buy better,” offering a sustainable alternative to fast fashion.
Odd Muse’s core audience comprises women who value quality, sustainability, and versatility in their wardrobes. The brand connects deeply with its audience by addressing their pain points—simplifying wardrobe choices and creating durable, stylish pieces. To engage this audience and drive growth, Odd Muse employs strategic marketing tactics, including authentic storytelling, exclusive product launches, and highly engaging social media campaigns. By blending minimalist design with an emphasis on timeless elegance, Odd Muse has carved out a loyal following in a competitive market.
In a saturated fashion landscape, Odd Muse’s focus on solving real customer problems, creating durable designs, and fostering a relatable brand story has established it as a trusted name in timeless fashion. The brand’s ability to combine authenticity, sustainability, and functionality ensures it stands out while maintaining a loyal and growing customer base.
POSITION YOUR BRAND TO WIN
1. 💸👑 Start with a Hero Product That Solves a Real Problem: Odd Muse built its foundation on the Ultimate Muse Blazer, addressing the need for versatile, long-lasting wardrobe staples. Starting with a single, impactful product can establish a strong market presence.
2. 💸👑 Connect Through Authentic Storytelling: Aimee Smale’s candid social media presence allowed her to forge personal connections with customers, turning her brand into a relatable and trusted entity. Authentic storytelling builds trust and loyalty.
3.💸👑Authentic Founder Presence: Personal involvement of the founder in brand storytelling can build trust and deepen customer relationships.
BRANDS THAT MADE OUR SH/T LIST
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Aryna Sabalenka, Coco Gauff, and Naomi Osaka made their presence and voices more valuable than logos and fonts.
WALMART WEDS GAMING, COMMERCE CLOSER TOGETHER WITH INTERACTIVE SERIES
Walmart Unlimited’s commerce hub is powered by a new software development kit the retailer hopes to bring to other Unity-based games.
SKINNYPOP SHOWS OFF BRAND REFRESH IN COMEDIC CAMPAIGN WITH JENNIFER ANISTON
The “Popular for a Reason” campaign leverages Hershey’s advertising partnerships for reach and includes an Oscars integration.
1. 💸👑 ​The Outta Excuses Small Business Empowerment Grant offers $3,000 quarterly to support small business owners and non-profit organizations. All applicants are automatically entered into a $10,000 bonus grant awarded in September 2025. Winners also receive free weekly strategic coaching sessions for 30 days. Eligible applicants must have a registered LLC or non-profit (501(c)3) and generate under $500,000 in annual revenue. A non-refundable $15 application fee is required. Apply here!
2. 💸👑The Greatness Grant, founded by Nehemiah Davis, offers $2,500 quarterly to aspiring entrepreneurs and early-stage business owners seeking financial support to launch or grow their ventures. Eligible applicants must have a clear business idea or plan and be committed to utilizing the grant meaningfully. Apply here!
3. 💸👑 The Halstead Grant: Halstead offers a $7,500 grant annually to emerging silver jewelry artists to support their business development. Eligible applicants must submit a design portfolio and answer 15 business-related questions. The application deadline is May 1 each year. Apply here!
INVEST IN YOUR BRAND, SIS
Thanks for reading, Queen.
