Clothing brand names
Choose a clothing brand name people can remember
The best first brand name is not the cleverest one. It is clear, distinctive, easy to say and strong enough to still fit when your first three products become a bigger collection.
Start with a pattern
Use one of four simple naming formulas
A naming formula gives you useful constraints so you can create options quickly instead of staring at a blank page.
- Founder or nickname + Supply, Studio or Co.
- A place, mood or idea + Apparel
- One strong invented word
- Two short words that create a specific feeling
Shortlist
Run every name through the five second test
Say the name once to someone who has not seen it. If they can repeat it, spell it and understand the vibe, it is doing useful work.
- Easy to pronounce
- Easy to spell
- Not locked to one product
- Looks good as a logo
- Does not rely on a trend that may disappear
Search before launch
Check that you are not building on someone else’s identity
Search the web, social platforms and official trademark databases before getting attached to a name. Similar names can create confusion even when the spelling is not identical.
Move forward
Pick a strong enough name and start building
A name earns meaning after customers see the product, the story and the experience. Do not let naming become a reason the business never launches.
Printable working sheet
Clothing brand name scorecard
Use this after you have a shortlist. Score each name instead of choosing only by instinct.
My top three brand names
Can someone repeat each name after hearing it once?
Can someone spell it without asking?
Does it still work if the brand expands beyond the first product?
Did we search the web and official trademark databases for similar names?
Which name wins and why?
Keep building
Related clothing brand guides
Ready to build it