If you're from Pittsburgh, you know David Alan. If you're in the fashion scene, you know David Alan. Recently opening his storefront and studio space in the heart of Mt. Lebanon, David is no stranger to the world of fashion and entrepreneurship. Though we all favor his taste, eye for design, and business-minded approach, I've always appreciated his entrepreneurial grit. As an entrepreneur, I've valued his authentic voice as he built his label from the ground up and his open conversations about the many struggles and hurdles that big dreams come with.
As a celebrity stylist who left the world of medical sales to chase a dream, I get it! Leaving a traditional career in the legal field to build Pittsburgh's "first fashion PR firm" at age 22 was kind of crazy for me back then. I've admired that similar voice and that hope that fashion can live and breathe in Pittsburgh. David now works with celebrities and athletes all over the country making a name for himself as the C-Suite Stylist.
Perhaps his most recognizable event is his annual fashion show fundraising for the Alexis Joy Foundation, an organization providing support for mothers postpartum. The red carpet is typically graced by celebrities and is one of the most anticipated fashion events of the year and sponsored this year by the Cozza Law Group. I was able to chat with David after the show about all that's in the works, already released, and upcoming.
Congratulations on a successful show, where did you find inspiration for this year’s designs?
Inspiration for this year’s designs comes from a variety of unique experiences I’ve encountered over the past year. For instance, a segment may reflect a personal challenge I faced, while another could draw from a significant project I completed. I often incorporate elements that resonate with the theme or ambiance of the event as well. My approach is flexible; I embrace the creative process and allow it to evolve naturally.
Tell us about your journey in becoming a designer, when did you first begin?
My journey into design is quite different from the norm in the fashion world. Initially, I worked in medical equipment sales and had no formal training in fashion. Despite this, I’ve always had an entrepreneurial drive, with several side ventures in the industry. It was only when I discovered custom clothing around 2012-2013 that I realized my true passion for design. This experience motivated me to immerse myself in learning and exploring the art of fashion
How long have you been designing and have you always lived in Pittsburgh?
I’ve been designing since 2016. I grew up in the South Hills of Pittsburgh and have lived here my whole life. Luckily, my work has taken me traveling all over, which has really opened my eyes to different cultures and the opportunities out there.
What do you love about working in Pittsburgh?
What I love about working in Pittsburgh is the people. This city has a unique charm, with so many genuinely good-hearted individuals. There’s a beauty in its blue-collar roots—if you work hard, treat others well, and stay true to your values, you have a great chance at success. Of course, it takes a lot of hard work and consistency, but that sense of community makes it all worthwhile.
What continues to keep you inspired?
While staying inspired is easier now, I recognize that the real challenge lies in the beginning—navigating how to start and grow a business, find the right products, and build a network. That initial phase is undoubtedly the toughest, as you often face uncertainty and self-doubt. It can be overwhelming to figure out the right steps to take when you’re not yet familiar with the landscape of the industry.
Early inspiration is crucial for success, as it fuels perseverance through those challenges. For me, discovering fashion's power was a turning point. It not only transformed my life but also opened doors I never imagined possible. Witnessing the profound impact fashion had on my self-confidence and opportunities motivated me to dive deeper into this world. That realization drives my desire to improve and innovate every day, knowing how much potential lies within the art of fashion.
What is next for the future?
I have many ideas for the future, but I’m embracing a flexible approach. We’re currently exploring the possibility of opening several locations across the country, with our first expansion set for Florida. We’re actively searching for spaces, aiming for a launch by the end of 2025.
In addition to this expansion, I’m focusing on product development, which has been a significant effort over the past 14-15 months. As I’ve built a strong reputation in the industry, many projects are now coming my way, which is an exciting position to be in. Earlier this year, I completed a project with The Rock, which seems promising for future collaborations.
There’s a lot happening with our brand, and numerous projects in the pipeline. While we have ambitious plans, we’re taking things day by day and truly enjoying the journey ahead.
You speak a lot about your journey as an entrepreneur, can you describe what your journey has been like in building a brand?
There’s no way a simple typed response can convey the true intensity of this journey. Building a brand is relentless—it's brutally difficult. From the very start, I wasn’t interested in creating a small, local brand in Pittsburgh; my ambition has always been to rise to the top of the fashion world, and I take pride in how far we've come.
It’s a double-edged sword that you start out blissfully unaware of how much you don’t know. If you lack an entrepreneurial mindset, you’re setting yourself up for failure. I hit rock bottom—I maxed out every credit card, and in 2017, my bank account was at a staggering -$86.40 with a credit score under 500. I defaulted on personal credit cards, and I faced multiple shut-offs of my utilities—gas, water, electric. I had to cut ties with friends and even some family members because I was fully committed to this dream, convinced that I could make it happen.
The early days were pure hell, and it’s clear why 99% of small businesses fail. It’s an uphill battle every step of the way, and there’s no way to soften that reality.
You can follow along David's journey at @davidalanstyle and @davidalanclothing on Instagram and www.davidalanclothing.com.
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