Throughout history, women have played a pivotal role in shaping the branding landscape, infusing it with creativity, authenticity, and inclusivity. As we celebrate Women’s History Month, it’s essential to recognize and learn from female-led brands that have not only disrupted industries but also championed inclusive storytelling. One such brand making waves is Off Season, a luxury fashion label co-founded by Kristin Juszczyk and Emma Grede, in collaboration with the NFL and Fanatics. This brand exemplifies the power of women in branding and the significance of inclusive narratives.
Off Season: Redefining Sports Fashion
Launched on January 7, 2025, Off Season aims to redefine the intersections of football, sports, and fashion. The debut collection features unisex puffer jackets inspired by iconic NFL teams, available on multiple platforms including OffSeasonBrand.com and NFLShop.com.
Kristin Juszczyk, a self-taught designer and wife of San Francisco 49ers fullback Kyle Juszczyk, gained national attention with her bold gameday looks. Her designs have been worn by celebrities like Taylor Swift, Gwen Stefani, and Simone Biles, blending high-fashion aesthetics with team-centric details. Emma Grede, co-founder of Skims, brings her entrepreneurial expertise to the brand, emphasizing authenticity and community in brand building.
The Importance of Inclusive Storytelling
Inclusive storytelling in branding involves representing diverse voices and experiences, ensuring that marketing narratives resonate with a broad audience. Brands that embrace inclusivity foster a sense of belonging and loyalty among consumers. Off Season exemplifies this by offering unisex designs that appeal to all genders, breaking traditional norms in sports apparel.
Moreover, the brand’s collaboration with the NFL and Fanatics highlights a commitment to inclusivity within the sports industry, providing fans with fashionable options that transcend gender stereotypes.
Lessons from Other Female-Led Brands
Off Season is not alone in championing inclusive storytelling. Other female-founded brands have also made significant impacts:
- Good American: Co-founded by Emma Grede and Khloé Kardashian, this brand offers size-inclusive denim and apparel, promoting body positivity and diversity.
etonline.com - Briogeo: Founded by Nancy Twine, Briogeo provides natural hair care products catering to diverse hair types, emphasizing inclusivity in beauty.
etonline.com - Away: Co-founded by Jen Rubio, Away offers thoughtfully designed luggage, focusing on the travel experiences of a diverse customer base.
etonline.com
The Impact of Women in Branding
Women-led brands often prioritize community, authenticity, and inclusivity, leading to strong brand loyalty and social impact. By highlighting diverse stories and breaking traditional norms, these brands resonate with a wider audience and drive positive change.
As we reflect during Women’s History Month, it’s evident that the power of women in branding lies in their ability to create inclusive narratives that celebrate diversity and foster genuine connections with consumers. Off Season’s innovative approach to sports fashion serves as a testament to the transformative impact of female leadership in branding.