The Lapel Project Shark Tank Update – Shark Tank Season 8
Sebastian Garcia and Raul Bernal pitched The Lapel Project, a stick-on satin lapel accessory that turns any suit into a tuxedo, on Shark Tank Season 8. They secured a deal with Mark.
Sebastian Garcia and Raul Bernal pitched The Lapel Project, their men’s fashion accessory that jazzes up and customizes the lapel on a suit, on Shark Tank Season 8 Episode 2.
Check more Shark Tank Season 8 Episodes.
About The Lapel Project
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Business Name | The Lapel Project |
| Founders | Sebastian Garcia and Raul Bernal |
| Industry | Clothing |
| Product | Men’s Formal Fashion Accessory |
| Deal Status | Deal Secured with Mark Cuban |
| Investment Asked | $150,000 for 20% equity |
| Deal Outcome | $150,000 for 30% equity |
| Valuation | $750,000 (at the time of the Shark Tank pitch) |
Sebastian Garcia was a fashion industry veteran who co-owned Sartori Amici, a Miami-based, exclusive men’s clothing store. His vision for overthrowing “Tuxedo Tyranny” was realized when he started the Lapel Project.
Essentially, the product was a stick-on piece of satin fabric that attached to the lapel of a suit, transforming it into a tuxedo jacket.
Garcia had a patent pending on the product. There were about a dozen “stock” lapels in their online store, and they also offered a customized option that allowed customers to design their own. Each Lapel Project costs $50 – $60.
The beauty of the product was that it provided an inexpensive way to get a tuxedo look without buying or renting one. Garcia wanted to make it “the next major accessory of our time, as impactful as the advent of the handkerchief.”
He likely sought a Shark’s help with funds for production. Would this business suit one of the Sharks?
The Lapel Project Tank Recap
Sebastian and Raul entered seeking $150,000 for 20% of their business. They made their pitch and demonstrated how easy it was to use the products.
The Sharks were both surprised and impressed. They outfitted the Sharks with custom lapels – even Lori – and everyone liked their samples. If properly cared for, each lapel could last up to ten uses.
Margins were strong, wherein they made them for $5–$8 and sold them for $50–$100. Up to that point, they had only sold $16,000 worth from the store Sebastian owned. They wanted an investor to help build out the online business.
Did The Lapel Project Get a Deal on Shark Tank?
Robert and Kevin thought it was a gag gift and opted out, but Mark was very interested. He told them he could help them “crush it” on Amazon and offered $150,000 for 30%.
Daymond and Lori appeared to want to make offers, but Daymond went out, followed quickly by Lori. Then, Mark moved in for the kill, and they sealed the deal at $150,000 for 30% equity.
What Makes The Lapel Project Unique?
The product tapped into a huge market that did not have much room for innovation and customization before. It breathed new life into a simple product in the men’s formal wear market.
The Lapel Project Shark Tank Update
After the show, Daymond, Lori, and Robert also invested in this business. Mark’s team completely overhauled the company website and built a robust Amazon Store.
A year after appearing, sales went up 1000%. They even offer custom lapels now.
As of August 2025, the company is open for business and doing well, especially during prom season. The net worth of The Lapel Project is estimated to be between $1 million and $2 million.
Posts about The Lapel Project on Shark Tank Blog
Read more information on this product that turns suits into tuxedos.
Where Can You Buy It?
They are selling lavishly on their own website. Other than that, Amazon also has the product. For a deeper dive, you can take a look at their Facebook and Twitter (X).
Quick Summary
- Sebastian Garcia and Raul Bernal pitched The Lapel Project, a stick-on satin lapel accessory that transforms a suit into a tuxedo, seeking $150,000 for 20% equity.
- The Sharks were impressed with the concept, strong margins, and customization potential, but sales were limited to $16,000 before the pitch.
- Mark Cuban offered $150,000 for 30%, and the deal was made; the company later saw sales jump 1000% with expanded online and Amazon presence.
Curious for more? Take a look at more business updates from the same episode.
