Candace R. Clark: Redefining Confidence Through Retro-Inspired Apparel
Candace R. Clark, the creative force behind Retro Phlair, has always been an artist at heart. Her journey began at the tender age of nine when she first picked up a pencil and started sketching. Over the years, her passion for art evolved, but it wasn’t until the pandemic that she rediscovered her craft and decided to turn her lifelong love for art into a business. Candace’s artistic journey took a meaningful turn when she became a mother at the age of 35. She devoted her time to her beautiful son, putting her burgeoning business on hold. A year later, the desire to merge her roles as a full-time mom and a creative entrepreneur sparked a groundbreaking idea: to create wearable art with a purpose. Thus, Retro Phlair was born on February 4th—a date chosen to honor her son’s original due date, marking a beautiful synergy of personal and professional milestones.
Crafting Confidence Through Wearable Art
Retro Phlair is more than just a brand; it’s a movement. Candace’s mission is to design apparel that boosts confidence and empowers individuals to feel good about themselves. Inspired by nostalgic elements and her struggles with confidence and mental health, Candace infuses every piece with intention and positivity. For example, her acronym I’m F.I.N.E. (Faithful, Impeccable, Natural, Empowering) is more than a catchy phrase—it’s a mantra that uplifts and inspires both the wearer and those who encounter it.
Candace’s battles with self-doubt and mental health have shaped her commitment to advocacy. “I want people to know they’re not alone,” she shares. “If I can overcome my struggles, so can they.” Retro Phlair serves as a reminder to practice what she preaches: to embrace her light and express her true feelings without fear.
Overcoming Challenges and Staying Authentic
Building Retro Phlair hasn’t been without its challenges. Candace admits that content creation has been a hurdle, as she’s not naturally drawn to being in front of the camera.
However, she’s turned this obstacle into an opportunity, creating content that authentically reflects her brand’s essence. Drawing inspiration from the 60s through the 90s, Candace uses music and nostalgia to connect with her audience in a genuine and fun way.
Making an Impact, One Hat at a Time
Retro Phlair isn’t just about selling apparel; it’s about creating meaningful connections. Candace recalls selling her hats in person and seeing customers’ faces light up when they discovered the empowering messages behind her designs. Moments like these reaffirm her mission: to inspire confidence, encourage self-expression, and spread
positivity.
Her men’s headwear line, I’m K.I.N.G. (Knowledgeable,
Innovative, Noble, Greatness), also carries a powerful
message. “My customers tell me they feel empowered when
they wear my hats,” Candace says. “Knowing I’m making a
difference, even in one person’s life, means the world to me.”
Looking Ahead: A Vision of Growth and Giving Back
As Retro Phlair grows, Candace’s goals remain ingrained in
making a positive impact. She’s working on expanding her
apparel line, creating more powerful acronyms, and inspiring
her followers with uplifting social media content. Recently, Candace was invited to join the board of a nonprofit foundation supporting women who struggle with mental health and childhood trauma—a role that aligns perfectly with her mission.
Candace also plans to launch a Facebook page, “Retro Phlair Cares,” to support random acts of kindness through donations. “Let us brighten up your day,” she envisions the bio reading. “We care to put a smile on your face.” She hopes to provide unexpected blessings to those in need through this initiative.
Join the Retro Phlair Movement
Candace’s story is a testament to resilience, creativity, and the power of purpose. From her early days as a young artist to becoming a mother and entrepreneur, she has poured her heart into creating a brand that uplifts and inspires. By following Retro Phlair, you’re not just buying a product—you’re joining a community that values confidence, empowerment, and self-expression.
Stay tuned for new apparel and exciting updates as Candace continues to spread positivity, one wearable masterpiece at a time. As she says, “Own it, mean it!”
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