How does a brand obtain real success, and what metrics should be used to confirm it? While there may not be a perfect answer in the world of fashion, supporters can still celebrate the brands that are making real impact through their creativity.

To be in the room for Melitta Baumeister’s first show this past season, you would have been remiss not to feel the anticipation in the air. Dancers clawed their way through the space in a pre-show exercise of chaotic bliss, while the runway creations advanced, complicated, and satisfied the world-building that has been exquisitely explored in each of her collections. 

“Finding the right pace at which to take new steps has been pivotal, but also the most challenging aspect in today’s fast-paced world,” Baumeister shared with the CFDA. 

Such thinking aids in visualizing a strategy that has helped the brand achieve sustained growth, win the 2023 CFDA/Vogue Fashion Fund, and land a bevy of celebrity clients (Offset, Rihanna) and industry supporters. Her sculptural approach, brand-defining silhouettes, and that iconic hat have sealed the German-born designer’s place in sartorial history.

“We’re constantly confronted with narratives, success stories, and dreams, and it’s tempting to adopt some of them for ourselves… Putting in the work and understanding your goals as both a designer and a person are critical,” she advised.

By setting her brand apart and steering the ship in a direction of consistent growth, Baumeister has set herself up for long-term sustainability. Her prediction for the future? 

“We will continue to grow steadily, strengthening our relationships with shops and customers, while maintaining an uncompromising approach to design and creativity in our work and the world we are building,” she said.

We’ll be right there along the way, watching as the designer sets new standards for innovation and storytelling.