An app for that ‘I’ve nothing to wear’ moment
If you’ve ever gone into your closet and said, “I have nothing to wear,” then you may want to check out StyleYou.com.
StyleYou is a mobile app that connects you with professional stylists who provide recommendations on what to wear everyday based on the clothes in your closet — think of it as your own personal stylist. StyleYou also recommends new items based on how they go with the rest of your wardrobe. Most important, you get to see how the outfits look on you.
We recently met the cofounders Tom and Jon Lam to learn more about their company.
How did you come up with the idea for your startup?
Jon: StyleYou is all about that ‘I have nothing to wear’ moment. One day, after hearing my wife say that for the thousandth time, I realized that it actually signified a problem that needed to be solved.
What has been the biggest challenge so far?
Jon: I think the hook behind the product is so strong — we’ve basically created the closet app from the movie Clueless — that the biggest challenge is getting the details like pricing and feature set right. But then again, I’m the product guy.
Tom: I would agree with Jon. We’re really focused on creating a great user experience, which can be challenging as you feel you are constantly in iteration mode. However, if you want to create something that people want, feedback is imperative.
Are there any key individuals outside of your organization that have been of great help to your startup?
Tom: The retailers and stylists we’ve partnered with have been invaluable. Their enthusiasm and willingness to help with even the simplest things has helped move our cause along.
What’s new with your startup that we can share?
Jon: The marketing folks at Ford saw what we were doing and invited us to be a part of their popup store concept in Union Square in San Francisco. That’s given us some great exposure in the U.S.
Do you think it is more difficult to raise capital or find the right talent?
Tom: We have been very fortunate to find the talent we have now, but as we expand, it’s becoming increasingly difficult to find talent in Calgary.
What has contributed to your success to this point?
Jon: Read everything you can about Lean Startup from Eric Ries and Steve Blank.
Tom: Our team has been tremendous. When you’re building a startup, you need people that will not only go the extra mile, but will do so with a smile on their face.
What made you choose to go down the path of entrepreneurship?
Tom: I’m a serial entrepreneur. I have my hands in many businesses, but since StyleYou was conceived, I have taken a side seat on everything else. I believe StyleYou could change the way people shop for clothes and it’s a disrupter.
What are your thoughts on Calgary’s startup community?
Jon: We have a great startup community. In general, I’d like to see people share their ideas and expertise more.
What do you and your startup need?
Tom: We’re always looking for investment. But first and foremost, we’re looking for users who are passionate about what we’re doing.