Amended: 7/30/2009
Such details have come to light that I do not endorse this contest. As the contest sponsor later admitted to me, Sopheme intends to use submissions for product development even if no prizes are awarded. My preference would have been to delete the entry entirely but I decided to leave it here for future web searchers who wanted more details about this firm’s practices.
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Here’s an interesting opportunity from Sopheme. Unlike other design contests, this one requires the submission of a sample garment. Could be fun, no?
There are ten possible winners, first place ($2,000), second ($500) and a possible eight alternates ($250). The best 25 nightgowns will be reimbursed up to $25 for materials. One downside to the challenge; the rules stipulate that awarding of prizes is incumbent upon receiving 30 entries. The deadline for entries is August 15th, 2009.
If I design my own fabric for this, do they also have the rights to that or just the design of the actual garment?
I haven’t read their ND agrement yet.
Hi Celeste,
I am the founder of Sopheme (and the creator of the contest). I’ve reprinted the verbiage of the NDA so that you (and everybody else) can see it without having to first officially register. Just the design and construction of the actual garment is protected under NDA. The actual fabric used to create the garment is not (although it won’t be returned).
I am really excited to get people participating in this contest. If you have any questions or want further clarification, please feel free to email me directly at miriam@sopheme.com
Thanks,
Miriam Volchenboum
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Sopheme, LLC 2009 Fashion Design Non-Disclosure Agreement (NDA)
I agree that any information I learn about Sopheme’s business will be kept
confidential. I will not discuss the details of Sopheme’s business ideas with others and
will not incorporate Sopheme’s design ideas and concepts into my future apparel designs
(this only applies to Sopheme’s built-in support design concept as is further described in
the contest rules). Additionally, I agree that the nightgown and illustration that I may
create for Sopheme in conjunction with the fashion design contest will be the property of
Sopheme and owned by Sopheme as its work product (i.e. the materials will not be
returned and can be used in part or as a whole, as Sopheme wishes). I will not reproduce
anything that I create without the expressed permission of Sopheme. The promises that I
am making in this NDA do not depend on my participation in this contest. I understand
that legal action may be taken against me if I violate this agreement. This NDA in no
way precludes me from continuing with my current design activities or in any way
working in the fashion design field in the future. Additionally, by signing this NDA, I
have not committed to participating in the design contest, and acknowledge that there are
no fees associated with this contest and that my involvement is, at all times, voluntary.
I was wondering if there is an age limit to entering this contest?
Thanks!
Abby
Such details have come to light that I do not endorse this contest. As the contest sponsor later admitted to me, Sopheme intends to use submissions for product development even if no prizes are awarded. My preference would have been to delete the entry entirely but I decided to leave it here for future web searchers who wanted more details about this firm’s practices.
Forum members have been discussing concerns about this contest on the forum. If you’re interested in the contest, maybe you should join the forum first.
I wrote the following in the forum and was privatley asked by a member to repost it here. I have edited it slightly for those that have not already been introduced to my eccentricity:
If I make a submission and do not get chosen for the big ‘ol $2L – do you keep my design and have the right to use it even if I’m not the best..? Or do you keep the right to use MY submission (copy wright) that I am not paid for?
BTW, I have not looked at your terms cuz I never, ever, even if I really want what you have; register for a web site.
BTW, I used to give myself away (when I was young and hopeful) for the hope to become “something” – this is the feeling I get.
I have made proposals, documents, and annalists, but… After 15 years of not being fairly compensated as a fashion designer, weaver, organic farmer, farm manager, shepherd, wood stacker, yard wraker and gallery manager, I no longer offer my services for a discount let alone free.
If you want to “invent” a business better off with starting a designer rock band. The fashion deal is tough, NO, really tough, and It has to be part of who you are. Please take this as, not only sightly annoyed critic, but genuine feedback.
If your looking for cumfy clothes, then hire a tailor, if your looking for a business, then invent a new natural soap or organic green shampoo, or bottled air..BTW I have done all of the above and still find myself wrapped around fabric!
No offense but your really sticking a hot poker to a bunch of hard working, brow sweating, shoulder to the mill American entrepreneur who deserve everything they have fought for. Please fight for your dream but do not step on US!
One more thing,
We all come up with our own ideas…even if we hire a designer, pattern maker or sticher – they all get paid and if the line fails its on us – the designer.
The aforementioned get paid (as they should for providing a service) but if no one buys – “you” hold the bag.
Your deal sounds like you have every opportunity to blame. I must stop myself here. But…I can not. Those in the industry know that you you are more sizzle than steak. You really don’t have the $50-100K to start a line. BTW this is what it takes if you want to start from, scratch and launch at regional shows within one year. Most of us take 3-5 years to launch and slow building at that.
The other thing you say is that you are developing investors…..as an MBA you should realize that you can not fool those who have money to invest in a clothing company. This is perhaps one of the most risky businesses: save a worm farm (I have also looked into). This bus. is a labor of luv, sweat, tears, sleepless nights – or a bunch, bunch of money– or both.