Habits are an innate part of human nature. The good, the bad and the ugly — we all have them. Habits 365, a company started by two New York teenage brothers, is doing its part to encourage the good ones.
Despite disparities in race, age, gender, expression or religion, the commonality of human nature exists primarily in the psyche. According to Forbes, “Humans are natural pattern recognizers.” This primal instinct to form and identify patterns is what leads us to create habits. We all have habits, but they often differ in nature and severity.
In 2017, the founders of Habits 365, Eli Zied and Spencer Zied, noticed this intrinsic human quality and used it as inspiration for a new clothing company. “The meaning is to encourage positive habits 365 days a year,” said Spencer, a junior at the University of Miami, who now acts as COO and CMO of Habits 365. “We realize that habits are something that everybody has, and our mission is to encourage the positive ones and bring out the best in every individual.”
The entrepreneurial bug bit the Zied brothers when they started buying and selling sneakers out of their New York City home. When they were in middle school, they started compiling the money they made selling the sneakers, pooling it together to start the business. The brothers are both full-equity owners and share the same aspirations for their company.
Similar to most companies in this day and age, recognition is key for growth. Whether by social media, word of mouth or simply getting their merchandise out on the street for people to notice, Spencer and Eli have mastered the art of marketing their merch. The brand has already gained over 116,000 followers on Instagram. At least twenty influencers have pledged their support and can be seen rocking this brand, including professional basketball star Dwayne Wade and hip-hop emcee A Boogie Wit Da Hoodie.
Despite this success, Habits 365 is still in its early stages. “We want our customers to understand the value that we are providing,” said Spencer. “[They’re] not just comfortable stylish clothes, but a brand that can encourage positive habits.”
Whether it’s a bralette, hoodie, cropped sweater or basic tee, the trendy Habits 365 logo makes its appearance on all their gear in a number of creative ways. The Miami Vice Cursive Tee features the Habits logo in the Miami Heat font and color, making for a perfect gym shirt. Going for a more understated look? The Black Crop Top, White Sports Bra and Black “Ruby” Signature Crew Neck are perfect staples for your wardrobe; simple, classy and clean.
As a student in the University of Miami Herbert Business School, Spencer has the opportunity to receive a formal education that will aid in running his company. However, the real-world experience he has gained from developing and maintaining this brand is invaluable.
Spencer remarked on the skills he has acquired from Habits 365. “I can compare reactions to different products, Instagram posts and promotions,” he said. “I have been surprised to see how many people want to be a part of our community and work as ambassadors and product reps.” By combining his UM education with his knowledge of today’s culture, he is able to identify not only the perfect target market, but also how to appeal to them.
Spencer also discussed the skills that he has honed from the classroom and how he has effectively incorporated them into his company. “I’ve also gained a lot of knowledge on production, budgeting, accounting, trademarking and many other details [for] running an effective business.” The two brothers are go-getters, no doubt, and they say the classroom is just their starting point.
While the cute clothing and vibrant colors attract customers, the message behind it all draws interest like no other. “I thought the clothes were comfy and stylish from the minute I put them on,” says Sofia Davis, a University of Miami freshman and model in our Habits 365 photoshoot. “Because of the brand’s message I will continue to wear their clothes on a day to day basis…It’s modern, comfy and the brand’s message is my kind of vibe.” In the highly competitive clothing market, Habits 365 brings forth an approach similar to Drew House and MadHappy; a message behind the clothing. Selling cute clothes just isn’t cutting it anymore in this fast-changing society and people like Eli and Spencer took advantage of the new idea of public expression through clothing and are bound to have overwhelming success.
Be sure to check out their trendy hoodies and sweats with a message we can all get behind as we embrace our good habits throughout the year.
This article was published in Distraction’s spring 2020 print issue.
words_alli sharif & gabby rosenblooom photos_gianna sanchez models_sofia davis & noah vesey