What’s new with Tropic of C?
There are so many beautiful pieces we’ve added, along with our core styles, which are classics and keep selling well. We added a movement category and recently clothing, so we’ve continued to grow and reach so many beautiful customers all over the globe.
You’ve had the line since 2018. How has it evolved?
It has been growing at a rate I never could have expected. We’ve had some growing pains along the way, as all businesses do, finding the right employees and how to handle the demand and ᴅᴇᴀᴅlines, but it’s all part of the process, and it’s a good problem to have. I’m constantly brainstorming the next collection for TOC. It’s always challenging and exciting as I put a lot of heart into it.
What have you learned about yourself along the way?
I’ve learned how important it is to stay true to my style and what I believe is beautiful. There can be many different influences and distractions these days. It’s important to stay true to the DNA of the brand. It’s also important for me creatively to have moments to myself where I can let my creativity flow and find new inspiration as we’re constantly making new collections and supplying the demand. When I started this company I knew nothing about business. I’ve enjoyed stepping into my entrepreneurial power.
How would you describe the aesthetic of the brand?
Tropic of C is a brand for a conscious consumer. The general style is inspired by classic shapes and simplicity. These are pieces you can have for a long time, and they never go out of style. I imagine the Tropic of C girl to be an adventurous woman who likes to look chic and feel good on whatever adventure she’s on. I pay close attention to both quality and fit. I think my experience modeling and making a living by making some not-so-beautiful clothing look good has helped me design pieces that do the opposite; they help make you look good.
You’re involved in every aspect of the business, from design to marketing. What’s your favorite part of the process?
My favorite part of running Tropic of C is the creative side, for sure. I love designing and finding new fabrics and colors, art-directing the shoots, and perfecting postproduction and marketing. I want the customer to feel a part of my tropical fantasies, to feel something more than just shopping. I want to transport the consumer into the Tropic of C world and almost feel the sun and elements that inspire me so much. My process is that I design with the location and feel of the collection in mind. I envision what environment the pieces will look best in and make the collection come to life.
Does the C in Tropic of C stand for Candice?
The C is for Capricorn or Cancer—the laтιтudes. I’ve always been ruled by the sun; it inspires me with its incredible colorful sunrises and sunsets and the ability to create life and growth. The sun makes me happy and is also the only way to be in a ʙικιɴι all the time, which is when I’m happiest, so it made sense. It was a name for the place in my mind that is TOC, where summer never ends. But it can also be for Candice if you like!
How would you still like to see the brand grow?
I would love to keep adding categories and collaborate with other like-minded brands that I respect. I’m just happy to be reaching so many different countries and beautiful customers around the world who continually come back because they love what we do. It says a lot.