Each one of us has had someone we look up to. Perhaps someone we have known all our lives and had the privilege of being graced with their presence. Then, at points we find ourselves in the work environment- influenced and inspired by another kind of mentor. For me, these wonderful leaders by example have been present in my work life and have all been women. Last night, as the 6 train roared beneath me, I got to thinking about these women and the attributes I most appreciate and desire to covet. The first step is recognition. So, here are the characteristics I most value and hope to make my own.
My most recent lady of inspiration is Honor Brodie- former Editor-in-Chief at In Style and current Editor-in-Chief of the Tory Burch website. The first time I met her, she came across as my friend- someone eager to help me feel at ease and better understand the world of fashion I had entered. In and of itself, I recognize the rarity of such openness and generosity in the fashion industry, and it made a lasting impression. She listened when I spoke and encouraged me to share my ideas. I will always remember the value in that- gaining from the people around you and also building that trust and safe place to explore ideas.
In London, I worked for the most devoted woman I know, Jane Carr. A trained designer from Central Saint Martins, followed by four years under Donatella Versace, Jane then launched her own label (which is exquisite!). I have never before or since witnessed a woman who has worked so passionately and relentlessly for what she loves and is building. Beyond that, I have taken away a couple of the details on how she does it all. She is meticulously methodical in her organization and she acts when she has a thought! Even if I were to ask an offhand question about where to take my visiting parents to dinner, she would break out a London map, make a copy of the area she suggested we go, and circle venues- right then and there. That immediate action has left an impression.
Finally, one of my first jobs working in the fashion and beauty industry was for a high-end skincare and cosmetics boutique called PURE. The owner Silvia Tobler and I instantly clicked. A savvy business woman, she identified a need in her community and filled it. For her, the store was about serving the public and therefore a common level of respect continually existed. That is the word I think of most when I want to describe what I learned from her- respect. Within her relations with customers, friends, family and her spouse- it always came down to a mutual respect. By offering that up from the beginning a certain environment is created and greatly accepted. Selling products was not just about selling products, but respectfully assisting each person with identifying and filling their needs. I have always carried that sentiment with me, going forward.
We may not realize who these influential people are at first, but as time passes and you look back, you will remember what has left a mark upon you and my hope is to make it my own and carry it forward, so that someday I might inspire someone else in the same way.
