I’ve always been fascinated by stories of innovation, perseverance, and growth. Few platforms showcase this better than Shark Tank. One story that stood out to me recently was the rise of NineteenTwenty (1920), a brand that didn’t just offer clothing—it offered adaptability. This brand’s journey from its pitch on Shark Tank to its growing success today is one worth exploring in detail. So, let’s dive into the story of Ashley and Zach Sankar and their game-changing convertible clothing line.
The Beginning of NineteenTwenty
When Ashley and Zach Sankar stepped into the Shark Tank spotlight in Season 16, Episode 4, they had one mission: to introduce the world to their innovative line of convertible jackets and skirts. The brand, named NineteenTwenty (1920), is all about functionality and versatility—a solution for people on the go who need their clothing to adapt to different situations.
Ashley and Zach’s journey began when they recognized a gap in the market. Traditional outerwear often prioritizes either fashion or function but rarely both. Their vision was to create clothing that could seamlessly transition into useful items like tote bags, blankets, or even travel pillows. This would make life easier for travelers, city dwellers, and anyone with an active, dynamic lifestyle.
Their backgrounds? Ashley brought a flair for design, while Zach had a knack for problem-solving and strategy. Together, they made the perfect team to take on this ambitious project.
The Big Pitch on Shark Tank
Walking onto the Shark Tank stage, Ashley and Zach exuded confidence. They asked for $250,000 in exchange for a 10% stake in their company, valuing NineteenTwenty at $2.5 million. Their pitch wasn’t just about numbers; it was about storytelling.
They demonstrated their products live, showing how their jackets could transform into tote bags capable of carrying up to 40 pounds, cozy blankets, or compact travel pillows. It was a moment of realization for the Sharks and the audience: this wasn’t just clothing—it was utility.
One of the most memorable moments came when Ashley humorously said, “Why carry a bag when you can wear one?” The simplicity and brilliance of their tagline resonated instantly. The Sharks were intrigued, and viewers at home couldn’t look away.
Securing the Deal
Negotiations were intense. The Sharks recognized the ingenuity of NineteenTwenty but had concerns about scaling the business. Robert Herjavec, however, saw the potential for growth and scalability. After some back-and-forth, Robert offered $250,000 for a 25% stake, doubling the equity they initially intended to give up. Ashley and Zach accepted, knowing that a partnership with Robert could catapult their business to new heights.
The Details of the Deal
Here’s a quick breakdown of the pitch and deal:
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Product Name | NineteenTwenty (1920) |
| Founders | Ashley Sankar and Zach Sankar |
| Season & Episode | Season 16, Episode 4 |
| Ask (Investment & Equity) | $250,000 for 10% equity |
| Final Deal | $250,000 for 25% equity |
| Shark(s) Involved | Robert Herjavec |
| Memorable Episode Moments | Demonstration of jackets converting into tote bags, blankets, and pillows |
| Current Net Worth | Approximately $1.46 million (as of 2024) |
| Current Business Status | Active |
| Revenue Since Shark Tank | Projected to reach $750,000 by end of 2024 |
| Social Media Presence | Over 216K followers on Instagram |
| Key Achievements | Viral video with over 66 million views, “Most Innovative Award” at GCU’s Canyon Ventures |
Life After Shark Tank
What happens after you leave the Tank? For Ashley and Zach, the real work began. The exposure from Shark Tank led to a massive spike in website traffic and sales. They cleverly capitalized on this momentum by offering a limited-time discount, enticing viewers to try their products.
One of their first moves post-Tank was expanding their product line. They introduced convertible skirts, which followed the same principles of versatility and adaptability as their jackets. Additionally, they launched new styles and colors to cater to a broader audience.
Ashley and Zach didn’t just stop at product innovation; they also prioritized inclusivity. Their clothing sizes now range from XS to 5X, ensuring that everyone could experience the practicality of NineteenTwenty’s designs.
Challenges and Triumphs
Like any startup, NineteenTwenty faced its fair share of challenges. Scaling production to meet the surge in demand was one of their biggest hurdles. However, with Robert’s guidance and investment, they streamlined their manufacturing processes and forged partnerships with reliable suppliers.
Another triumph? Their marketing strategies. A viral video showcasing the versatility of their jackets garnered over 66 million views. This not only boosted sales but also established their brand as a leader in the convertible clothing niche.
Current Status: Where Are They Now?
Fast forward to January 2025, and NineteenTwenty is thriving. The company’s projected revenue for 2024 was $750,000, and they’re well on their way to crossing the $1 million mark. Their social media presence has grown exponentially, with over 216,000 Instagram followers engaging with their content regularly.
Their offline presence has also expanded. A pop-up event in New York City generated over $27,000 in sales in just one weekend—a testament to the brand’s growing popularity.
NineteenTwenty’s focus on innovation continues to set them apart. They’ve hinted at new product launches, including convertible activewear, which could further cement their position in the market.
Lessons for Aspiring Entrepreneurs
So, what can we learn from Ashley and Zach’s journey? Here are a few key takeaways:
- Solve a Real Problem: NineteenTwenty’s success stems from addressing a genuine need. Their products’ versatility resonated with a wide audience.
- Leverage Media Exposure: The Shark Tank platform gave them unparalleled visibility, which they capitalized on immediately.
- Be Ready to Adapt: From adjusting equity offers during negotiations to scaling production post-Tank, Ashley and Zach demonstrated adaptability at every turn.
- Prioritize Inclusivity: By offering a wide range of sizes, they ensured that their products were accessible to more people.
- Build a Strong Brand Identity: Their viral marketing campaigns and consistent messaging helped establish NineteenTwenty as a unique and innovative brand.
What’s Next for NineteenTwenty?
The future looks bright for NineteenTwenty. With their ongoing focus on innovation and inclusivity, they’re poised to become a household name in the convertible clothing space. I wouldn’t be surprised to see them expand internationally or even collaborate with major fashion retailers.
For Ashley and Zach, the journey is far from over. They’ve shown us that with the right idea, determination, and a little help from the Sharks, anything is possible.
So, if you’re looking for clothing that’s as dynamic as your lifestyle, NineteenTwenty might just be the brand for you. Keep an eye on them—they’re only getting started!