Today we’d like to introduce you to Margot Hogan.
Margot Hogan
Transparent, by definition, means allowing light to pass through so objects can be distinctly seen. The brand was founded by Texas native, mother of 3, Margot Hogan, with the purpose to inspire joy in self expression through eyewear. Ever since childhood, Margot found sunglasses to be a magical accessory. “It’s such a transformative experience to be able to not only elevate your look but your mood, with just this one powerful accessory.” In spite of the eyewear industry being one of the most saturated in the fashion world, she noticed a need for a designer sunglasses brand that not only leaned into the transformative experience but also one that is forward thinking, designing unique looks with the modern consumer and their lifestyle demands in mind. From its inception in 2020, Transparent Sunglasses has been a brand that aligns with the music industry because of the shared passions for unapologetic self expression and evoking emotion. One month after the brand launched on Instagram, and with less than 5 followers, Transparent was invited to the Grammy’s to style musicians. What’s equally as notable is that in its first year of business, the brand was picked up by mega-retailers such as Anthropologie, Free People, and various Four Seasons.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not, what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
I liken entrepreneurial life to water rafting. Sometimes, you’ve got a really smooth rapid, and you’re rolling and paddling, and everything is in motion. Then, suddenly, you hit a rock, and you have to spin, pivot, and keep moving. This is by no means easy, but I love learning how branding works and seeing our customers’ enthusiasm keeps me motivated. “I believe that if you truly love what you do, you’ll never work a day in your life. And I honestly love what I do”, she says.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
Up until January of 2024, I was solely running all aspects of the business. I’m really proud that we are female-owned and operated – it’s something real special to me. “Being a founder requires me to wear many hats as they say. And as the sole Creative Director of my brand, these roles include anything from designing each of our looks and creating special packaging to managing our social media handles and strategic artist collaborations. I also oversee all backend business operations, including shipping fulfillment, tradeshow participation and wholesale relations. It’s a lot and every day is different.”, she shares. What she’s most proud of, however, is her willingness to be transparent with her customers and collaborators. “Because the personality of this brand is a reflection of my personality, it’s a little outside of the box and idiosyncratic but passionate and playfulat the same time.”
Up until January of 2024, I was solely running all aspects of the business. I’m really proud that we are female-owned and operated – it’s something real special to me. “Being a founder requires me to wear many hats as they say. And as the sole Creative Director of my brand, these roles include anything from designing each of our looks and creating special packaging to managing our social media handles and strategic artist collaborations. I also oversee all backend business operations, including shipping fulfillment, tradeshow participation and wholesale relations. It’s a lot and every day is different.”, she shares. What she’s most proud of, however, is her willingness to be transparent with her customers and collaborators. “Because the personality of this brand is a reflection of my personality, it’s a little outside of the box and idiosyncratic but passionate and playfulat the same time.”
What were you like growing up?
Growing up, I was always a little bit of a tomboy. “I enjoyed sports and was pretty competitive- definitely not a girly girl”. I was also obviously very interested in music. My favorites were Tom Petty, Grateful Dead, Rolling Stones, and even oldies like Traveling Wilbury’s. The people I’m closest with know that I’ve always walked the beat of my own drum. Meaning that I have always done things a little differently with my own personal touch – and have never really been much of a rule follower. I love art and reading and learning how others enjoy expressing themselves through those creative outlets. It’s important to always remain curious.
Growing up, I was always a little bit of a tomboy. “I enjoyed sports and was pretty competitive- definitely not a girly girl”. I was also obviously very interested in music. My favorites were Tom Petty, Grateful Dead, Rolling Stones, and even oldies like Traveling Wilbury’s. The people I’m closest with know that I’ve always walked the beat of my own drum. Meaning that I have always done things a little differently with my own personal touch – and have never really been much of a rule follower. I love art and reading and learning how others enjoy expressing themselves through those creative outlets. It’s important to always remain curious.
Pricing:
- $200-$425
Contact Info:
- Website: https://transparentsunglasses.com
- Instagram: @transparentsunglasses
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