Business Plan Project: LUME Active

The Ask

To create a comprehensive and professionally branded business plan for a new fashion retail company, in response to a hypothetical city-wide initiative in Richmond offering $100,000 in seed funding to the most compelling retail concept. Working in a team of three over the course of a semester, we were challenged to apply both quantitative and qualitative skills developed through our Fashion Merchandising coursework.

This included not only sound financials and feasibility, but also creativity in brainstorming ideas and a clear vision for launching in 2026. Each section of the plan was refined through feedback, and our final submission reflected a balance of data-driven decision-making and innovative retail strategy.

The Class

FASH-445: Fashion Entrepreneurship

SKILLS

  • Trend & Market Research

  • Strategic Marketing

  • Brand Development

  • Team Collaboration

  • Industry Analysis

  • Independent Thinking

  • Professional Writing

Meet The Team

  • OLIVIA CANDERELLI

    MARKETING & SOCIAL MEDIA

  • TORI WOOWARD

    HEAD BUYER & MERCHANDISING

  • YASMIN GAUGAU

    CUSTOMER RELATIONS & PR

OUR BUSINESS PLAN

Our future will usher in a new era of independence, autonomy, and empowerment for women, redefining societal expectations. With a rise in single, child-free women prioritizing personal fulfillment over traditional norms, we are witnessing a transformation in femininity. This shift reflects historical movements like Women’s Liberation and the passing of Roe v. Wade, as well as the challenges posed by recent setbacks such as the 2022 overturn of Roe v. Wade, which has reignited the fight for women’s rights and autonomy.

By 2030, 45% of women aged 25 to 44 are projected to be single and childless, reshaping cultural narratives. Inspired by this evolution, our Spring/Summer 2026 “Unleashed” collection celebrates the bold, fearless, and independent spirit of modern women. With garments that reflect liberation and individuality, this collection uplifts single women who are redefining femininity and reclaiming their power.

Our tagline, “Redefine Freedom, Embrace Your Beauty,” honors women who break free from societal constraints, embracing strength, beauty, and authenticity. “Unleashed” goes beyond fashion—it’s a call to self-expression and a tribute to the untamed spirit of women who dare to defy, dream, and be different.

RESEARCH

Building on the development of our theme, conducting research was essential to refine our target market. This process centered on three key drivers across three segments: current, past, and future.

With these drivers identified, we defined our consumer profile for 2026.

MARKETING

Building on our research, we explored both streetwear and runway trends to shape the textile and garment elements of our forecast.

We created six key looks that capture the essence of our theme. These include monochrome color schemes, leather looks, women tuxedos, and the styling of ties. To complement these styles, we selected representative textiles and accessories to complete the vision.

THE OUTCOME

Unleashed: SS2026 Fashion Forecast project presents a comprehensive overview of our process—including the theme, research, and designs—through a clear and visually captivating slide deck.

Click The Image To See Full Project

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