The fashion industry is a dynamic and ever-evolving space, constantly influenced by visionary leaders who push boundaries and inspire change. For this post, we asked some of our industry friends to share their most impactful quotes and key takeaways to inspire other leaders in our community.
Tas Goel, Talent Acquisition Manager at Lululemon
Quote: “It’s okay to be less than perfect; your people want and need to see the human side of you. Share your failures and mistakes and be vulnerable when you can.”
Takeaway: People gravitate towards authenticity. Learn to be more open and less concerned about looking like you know it all.
Jillian Harris, Founder of Jillian Harris Design and The Jilly Academy, Co-Author of Fraiche Food Full Hearts and Co-Founder of The Jilly Box
Quote: “My recipe for success and growth is simple: Connect, communicate, and then create.”
Takeaway: Establish strong connections and communication as a foundation before creating. This sequence leads to effective and successful outcomes.
Courtney Watkins, Owner of Mine & Yours
Quote: “It’s important to have a good product but even more important to build a relationship with your customers and have a brand that they really believe in and want to be a part of.”
Takeaway: Building strong relationships with customers and creating a brand they believe in is crucial for long-term success.
Laura Pitsch, COO of Mine & Yours
Quote: “Your people will make or break your business. It’s crucial to find the right people, coach and develop them, and provide the support they need to excel. Clear communication, giving tough feedback, and delegating significant tasks are key. Ultimately, it all comes back to the quality of our people and our ability to nurture their growth. So many companies have unhappy people that suck resources.”
Takeaway: The success of your business hinges on your ability to lead and develop your team. Invest in your people, communicate clearly, and foster their growth for a thriving business.
Leah Alexandra, Founder of Leah Alexandra Jewelry
Quote: “Wearing all the hats when you’re starting a new business is normal, but don’t wait too long to start outsourcing and seeking help especially in areas that are not your strength. It may seem like an extra expense at first but it will cost you more in the end if you don’t!”
Takeaway: Don’t hesitate to outsource and seek help in areas outside your expertise. It might seem costly initially, but it saves more in the long run.
Ainsley Rose, Co-founder of Londre Bodywear
Quote: “Your ability to withstand discomfort is what will set you free. Whether that means breaking up with someone who isn’t right for you, quitting a job, or meditating when you don’t feel like it, the energy it takes to go along with something that you know isn’t best for you is heavy. Taking the uncomfortable step is what removes that weight allowing you to live in freedom.”
Takeaway: Taking difficult but necessary steps can relieve the burden and lead to freedom and personal growth.
Christie Lohr, Founder of Style Nine to Five
Quote: “I always tell employers to consider candidates even if they don’t have fashion or retail experience, but they have that sense of urgency, a positive attitude, and a willingness to learn.”
Takeaway: Focus on a candidate’s attitude and willingness to learn rather than just their experience. You just might be missing out on your best hire. (Christie’s seen this happen).
Additional Actionable Tips
To further enrich your leadership approach in the fashion industry, consider these actionable tips:
• Foster Innovation
– Encourage Creativity: Create an environment where team members feel safe to share innovative ideas without fear of criticism. This can lead to breakthrough products and processes.
– Leverage Technology: Utilize the latest technology such as AI and big data analytics to forecast trends, manage inventory, and personalize customer experiences.
• Sustainability Practices
– Adopt Circular Fashion: Implement a circular business model by promoting recycling, upcycling, and sustainable materials. This not only helps the environment but also appeals to the growing eco-conscious consumer base.
– Transparency: Be transparent about your supply chain and manufacturing processes. Consumers are increasingly demanding to know the origins of the products they purchase.
• Enhance Customer Experience
– Personalized Services: Use customer data to provide personalized shopping experiences. Tailored recommendations and exclusive offers can enhance customer loyalty.
– Community Engagement: Build a community around your brand. Engage with customers through social media, events, and collaborations to create a sense of belonging.
• Develop a Strong Brand Identity
– Consistent Messaging: Ensure that your brand’s messaging is consistent across all channels. This strengthens brand recognition and trust.
– Authentic Storytelling: Share the story behind your brand and products. Authentic storytelling can resonate with consumers and differentiate you from competitors.
• Invest in Employee Development
– Continuous Learning: Provide opportunities for continuous learning and development. This keeps your team updated with industry trends and enhances their skills.
– Empower Employees: Empower your employees by delegating meaningful tasks and responsibilities. This not only boosts their confidence but also drives business growth.
• Adapt to Market Changes
– Flexibility: Stay flexible and be ready to adapt to market changes. Whether it’s a shift in consumer preferences or a new technological advancement, agility can be a competitive advantage.
– Customer Feedback: Regularly seek and analyze customer feedback. Use it to make informed decisions and improve your products and services.
Insights from Chip Wilson‘s Newsletter
In his bi-weekly newsletter, Chip Wilson, founder of Lululemon, shares valuable insights on entrepreneurship and leadership. One notable piece of advice is:
“In my own evolution as an entrepreneur, I found that once I had the right people in place who rounded out our total brand expertise, I was able to actually take some time off and even take a vacation here and there. It allowed me to step back and have someone else to bounce ideas off, and to just share the load with in a more general sense.”
Takeaway: Building a strong team allows you to delegate effectively, share the workload, and gain new perspectives, ultimately leading to a healthier work-life balance and better business decisions.
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