SeedInvest is one of the leading equity crowdfunding platforms that is leveraging recent rules created under the JOBS Act of 2012. DSTLD (pronounced distilled), a “digitally focused” premium denim company, has quickly attracted over $7.3 million $7.7 million in investor interest under Reg A+. As of this writing, just under 2000 investors have signed up to indicate they are interested in participating in a securities offer under the “test the waters” rules. This is the third possible equity crowdfunding offer made available to retail investors on the SeedInvest crowdfunding platform.
While there is a ton of competition in the premium denim category today, DSTLD believes they are on to a more competitive model as they sell typically at 1/3 of the retail price of other industry participants. Since the 3rd quarter of 2014, the retailer has sold over 34,000 items and has grown a substantial 640% versus the year prior when looking at Q3 of 2015.
Founded by Cory Epstein and Mark Lynn, the pair believe that high-quality garments don’t demand a super high price. The story behind their success is part due to their push to eliminate the middle man with their “direct to consumer” approach. The company states they sell attire manufactured in the “most sought after factories in North America.” According to the campaign page;
“We’re focused on designing edgy, modern staples, like the perfect jeans, tops, outerwear, and accessories, in a fundamental color palette – black, white, and denim.”
While denim is their lead product, DSTLD does offer tees, sweaters and more.
Based in LA, the young company has received the backing of some big names. Plus Capital, Creative Artists Agency (CCA), Wavemaker Partners, Baroda Ventures, Amplify LA and Crunchfund (Michael Arrington & Patrick Gallagher) have all kicked in. According to Fashionista, the company raised $4.4 million in seed funding with the backing of these early stage investors.
Several publications have described DSTLD as the Everlane of denim (Everlane ran a rewards based crowdfunding campaign). That is not a bad comparison. But by focusing on a more defined vertical DSTLD is more Warby Parker than Everlane.
So if you believe in the staying power of premium denim but see the value in a super competitive price – like $65/pair – you may want to check out this offer on SeedInvest. Expect to see them filing for a Reg A+ offer soon. Details are available once you register.
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