WHY I WANT YOUR BRAND TO BE LIKE MY BLACK BELT.

Nope, not talking about karate black belt. However, I do want your brand to be strong and invincible.
 
I am speaking to a simple little black belt that I have. So why should your brand be like this black belt?
 
The genesis of this black belt came from pre-2000 when I was living with my boyfriend in San Francisco. It actually started as a gift that was something else from Coach. Thoughtful but not what I needed.
 
1. Your brand is something you need.

And obviously not memorable, but I did appreciate the sentiment and was happy it came from a store that I respected their design aesthetics.
  
2. Your brand should be memorable.
 
So I exchanged it for something I needed and that suited me.
 
3. Your brand should suit you.
 
I still use it all the time. It’s classic enough that it goes with my work outfits but simple enough that it works with my daily outfits.
 
4. Your brand should meet all your needs.
 
There have been times when I thought I lost my belt and would panic. Eventually it would turn up “where I last put it” (my mother’s best advice), and all would be right again in my fashion world.
 
5. Your brand should be irreplaceable.
 
A couple of times that meant it went through the washing machine by mistake. I hate to admit the number of times this belt has been washed and, yet, it still looks like new.
 
6. Your brand should be durable.
 
And mind you… I am not always the “fighting fashion weight” I strive to be, but this belt has the holes to accommodate my sizes.
 
7. Your brand should be flexible.
 
As in an accessory, your brand has a function — it represents your company and is often the first impression. Have you ever worn something that just didn’t feel like you and you couldn’t wait to take it off?
 
8. Your brand should accurately represent you, as well as well as the values and qualities you want to be recognized for.
 
When I purchase things I always think long-term versus disposable fashions or products. This belt is a true testament to this.
 
9. Your brand should fit with the 5-year vision of your company.
 
This belt has formed to me. It would not fit anyone else the same. It has become a part of my life and a part of me.

10. Your brand should fit you and only you. You will know your brand is truly right for you when it won’t fit anyone else.