Kirrin Finch makes menswear-inspired clothing for women and non-binary people. What does a perfect fit mean to your customers, and how do you get there?
The perfect fit for our customers is the feeling of “Finally, something made for me.” They no longer have to compromise style for fit, and they immediately feel seen. Aside from that feeling, we focus on body diversity, offering an inclusive size range from 0 - 28 and XS - 5XL.
What was the hardest part of launching a clothing brand in Brooklyn with no fashion industry background?
One of the challenges of launching a clothing brand without a fashion industry background back then was learning as you go. Learning production, lead times, and gaining deeper knowledge of fabrics and product testing. Honestly, despite a few challenges, it’s been fun. We get to disrupt gender norms and create something our community wants. We started with shirts in 2015 and launched our first suit in 2020. Over the years, we’ve incorporated customer feedback to deliver what they want. Now you’d never know we didn’t start with a fashion background ;)
Which piece in your collection gets the most love, and why do you think it resonates?
Ooh, good question! I’d say it’s a tie between our new Scout Suits and our dress shirts. Our new Scout Suits are made to move with you and are great for everyday wear; they have a flexi-waist, so you’re comfortable throughout the day. Our dress shirts are a hit because they were designed with our bodies in mind. They have an extra button to prevent chest gape, so you can focus on looking your best throughout the day.
How do you approach sustainability and ethical production as a small brand?
We approach sustainability in a few different ways, but one of my favorites, and one that’s least talked about, is KIRRINFINITY, our pre-loved platform. Over the years, we’ve diverted 8,351.43 lbs from the landfill and helped pre-loved clothes find new homes. This also allows our community to sell to and purchase from each other as well.
Millennials and Gen Z think about gender and style differently than any generation before. What are they teaching you?
They are teaching us that we don’t need to wait for permission to be who we are. They teach us that style is fluid.
Our readers include a growing community of women in whisky and cigars. What would you wear to a whisky tasting or a night at a cigar lounge?
To a whiskey tasting or a night in a cigar lounge, I'd be wearing our black or white short sleeve crew knit and Georgie Emerald dress pants. A little fun, a little dressy, but not too buttoned up.
What's your own drink of choice, and where in New York do you go to enjoy it?
My go-to, if you couldn’t have guessed, is an Old Fashioned; it just never steers me wrong. I really enjoy Bar Blondeau; it’s a rooftop restaurant in Williamsburg, and when the weather is nice, it’s the perfect place to watch the Sunset.
What's a style rule you love breaking?
All of them! I get dressed depending on my mood. I love wearing sneakers with my suits, yes, even for galas.
What advice would you give someone who wants to start a values-driven brand today?
Lead with authenticity; stay focused on your mission. Listen to your customers; as cliché as it sounds, you won’t be where you are without them!
What's next for Kirrin Finch?
Well, we’ve just hit 11 years in business, which is a huge deal for a small queer women-owned business! We are looking to continue to expand our knit collection and offer additional colors in our Scout Suit line!
