Cocky Couture

This collection of clothing is from the Cocky Couture donation center. All of the clothes were donated by USC students or thrifted for this organization. The purpose of this shoot was to utilize the secondhand pieces from Cocky Couture to create stylish and affordable looks that are easily accessible to all students. All of the looks are available through Cocky Couture. The purpose of this shoot was to showcase the fashion forward and stylish options provided by Cocky Couture at low price points. The looks range from work wear, casual pieces, and dressy, fun pieces. The inspiration for this shoot came from wanting to inspire fellow students that fashion can be affordable and you do not have to purchase designer clothing to be in style. This organization gives back to the fellow community by providing the basic necessities of clothing to those who are in need. Below is an interview with Cocky Couture founder, Justin Steele. For more ways to get involved or to volunteer, email Justin Steele at jisteele@email.sc.edu.

1. So to start off, what is Cocky Couture?

a. Cocky couture is a fundraising student led organization that collects donations of tangible goods. We provide it to the underprivileged people of Columbia. The purpose is to give students retail leadership opportunities while also providing services to the Columbia Community.

2. What was your inspiration for starting this organization?

a. A lot of it had to do with being a retail management major and what we currently offered. None of it focused on helping the community or giving back at all. I wanted to take what I learned in the classroom and put it back into the community.

3. When can we expect Cocky Couture to be up and running?

a. Cocky Couture was officially approved last week (November 14, 2016). Cocky Couture is very brand new. We have started doing networking with local shelters in the area. We might be partnering with Hannah House and Oliver Gospel mission in the near future. Our meeting dates are bi-monthly, every Monday around 7 p.m. in the Carolina Coliseum.

4. What is Cocky Couture doing now and how did you come up with the idea?

a. As of right now for this semester we’re focusing on getting donations. Hopefully towards the middle of next semester we will be taking volunteers and starting the pop up shops. My idea started in the spring of 2016. I came up with the idea after coming to USC and seeing the homeless population, seeing that they do really need a hand. I wanted to come up with an idea to give back. Being brand new and established, we hope the readers will be excited to donate and help us grow. We are talking to the retail department and planning events for this organization. We are working with fashion board. We have connections with sororities. We have a lot of connections and a lot of means to get what we need, but the more the merrier.

5. Explain the name “Cocky Couture”

a. It is a play on words. I want to show our USC pride, however, the main focus is wanting to empower those less fortunate when they shop with our organization. I've learned shopping is a luxury that brings happiness to people, and with the financial and emotional struggles those in poverty face, we hope to allow them to feel confident by being able to find their own style with our merchandise.