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A Male’s Perspective on the Fashion Industry Body Love is the New Trend Finding Self-Love in an Industry that Brings you Down Get the Inside Scoop on Fashion Week How to Climb the Ladder of Success, and Fast!
Letters from the editors
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ising as editor of Statement this year has already been such an incredible experience. This issue is all about self-love and I am so glad that MacKenzie and I were able to raise awareness about the topic on a platform such as this. Self-love is a topic that I hold very dear to my heart. I believe everyone should feel confident and beautiful on a day-to-day basis, despite what society may think. I would like to thank my co-editor MacKenzie for all of the hard work that she put into this issue. We hope that this issue encourages, empowers, and inspires those who read it. We do not spend enough time focusing on self-love and it is time for us to all step up together and make a STATEMENT. -Briana Harrison
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hen deciding to apply as co-editor, I was at first hesitant. I second guessed my writing ability and creativity, wondering if they were in fact “good enough.” However, with an interest in graphic design, a passion for fashion and the desire to push my boundaries, it was clear it was an opportunity I could not pass up! First off, I would like to thank everyone who made this season’s publication possible, especially, this year’s editor-in-chief, Briana Harrison and our advisor Jen for their hard work and creativity. I hope this issue of Statement encourages all of its readers to embrace themselves truly as they are with its theme being all about self-love. This publication has allowed me to combat my own insecurities, empowering me to step up and make a STATEMENT. -MacKenzie Lewis
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yosel fashion insider
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Our differences make us unique and being different is something to be celebrated not hated. Self-love is such an important aspect in a cut throat industry like ours
Yosel Nadik 3.
Being a male fashion major at Mercyhurst is a unique experience. Since there are not many male fashion majors on campus, you tend to stand out. Growing up, I’ve never fit into the stereotypical definition of how a man should dress. I’ve always loved experimenting with different styles and consider myself to be an androgynous individual, combining both masculine and feminine concepts. I am the type of guy that can rock a pair of Nike kicks with an oversized hoodie and sweats but also turn heads with a full face of makeup, my iconic platform boots and my studded leather jacket. However, on a small campus like Mercyhurst, most people do not understand my style and that can make me feel self-conscious. Despite those feelings, what I’ve learned throughout my life is that the main source of an individual’s happiness should come from within. Once you are content with yourself, no one can take that away from you. In that respect, fashion has been my main mode of self-expression. Through fashion, I have been able to understand that what others think about you does not matter, as long as you are able to love yourself for who you truly are. As a teenager, I struggled with coming to terms with my identity and it took me some time to realize that being different is okay. Our differences make us unique and being different is something to be celebrated, not hated. Self-love is such an important aspect in a cut throat industry like ours. People always talk about being confident or being fierce, but what makes us truly confident is learning how to love ourselves. In the words of RuPaul Charles, legendary drag queen and television personality, “If you can’t love yourself, how the hell are you going to love somebody else?”
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FABULOUS
It’s 7:40 in the morning when you realize maybe hitting the snooze button that last time wasn’t the best idea. You run to your 8:00 a.m. class in sweats and a messy bun, starting your day off on the wrong foot. We’ve all been there. Luckily, it doesn’t have to be this way, even when you hit the snooze button once or twice. You only need fifteen minutes in the morning to go to class feeling fabulous. Start your busy morning off with the basics. Though you’re in a rush, hygiene is not the first thing to go. Your morning shower is going to have to wait, so throw some dry shampoo into this process if your hair needs a little pick me up. Once you have completed your basic morning routine, go get dressed. Pick an outfit that you already know you love. Today is not the day to be adventurous and try out a new one. Play it safe and wear what you already know. The quickest picks are dresses and jumpsuits since there is no need to match or find tops and bottoms. Throw it on with a favorite pair of shoes and move to the next phase. Now that you are dressed you can focus on makeup and hair. Since you have less than ten minutes, you’re going to have to ditch your normal routine. Focusing on hair first, brush your hair quickly to get all the knots out from sleeping. Now your hair is knot-free, but
probably a little frizzy. In this case, you can apply some product to control your frizz or pick a hairstyle to hide it. Hairstyles that hide frizz well are tight buns and braids that pull the hair back. The best thing you can do to hide your frizz is to pull your hair away from your face so that you don’t draw attention to it. To finish up, you just need to do your makeup and then you are ready to go. Depending on what kind of day to day makeup you normally wear, you may have to cut a few steps out. The rule of thumb for doing makeup in a rush is to pick your top two must haves. Whether that be lipstick and mascara or foundation and eyeliner, focusing on just two elements will give you the confidence boost you need in the little time that you have. If choosing two favorites sounds like an impossible task, just remember, you can always throw additional makeup into your bag and finish up your look between classes. It’s now 7:55 and you are all ready to go to class. Remember the most important thing about waking up late is to forget it once you walk out the door. Just because you had to rush to get out the door does not mean it’s going to be a bad day. Stay positive and remind yourself that every day is a good day. Now go out there and slay.
Shannon Gothem 4.
#BODYLOVEBYTREND Nobody knows living in a small town quite like I do- I am from Bolivar, NY which may have been thriving in the 1800s as an oil boom town, but today it is a small, quaint town with a single red light and gas station. Although I am proud to call Bolivar home, job opportunities are slim to none, especially in the fashion industry. Once returning home for the summer, I began searching for retail jobs in the neighboring towns, each opportunity ultimately falling short. Finally, I talked with Taylor, the owner of a local boutique called Trend Addictions, where she welcomed me to learn the ins and outs of owning your own clothing store. Throughout the summer I was able to work beside her, helping choose the newest arrivals to buy, plan the week’s social media posts, and decorate the store’s windows. Overall, it was a great experience that made me recognize the benefits of living in a small town. Working at a local boutique allowed me the opportunity to learn and experience a wide array of skills needed in the fashion industry. In fact, one of my best experiences this summer was contributing to Trend Addiction’s annual fashion show. This year’s fashion show was conducted around the theme of “Body Love.” My summer quickly turned into researching body positivity quotes and ways to really sell our theme. As the days narrowed down closer to the show, the store flourished in self love quotes staring back at you in the mirror and out onto main street as they hung in the store front window. Taylor worked with a local media business to produce a promo video for the show. The video features four of the models exposing their biggest insecurity, with the words written upon their skin. Then, they each begin to wipe the words away while exclaiming what makes them confident. I absolutely loved the impact of the promo video and how clearly it portrayed our desired message. When the day of the show finally came, I was overjoyed to have been a part of such a meaningful event. The models all varied in age and size, featuring mothers, daughters, and friends. Ultimately, fashion is not just about the clothes, it is truly about the people wearing them, which is why I stand by #BodyLoveByTrend!
MacKenzie Lewis
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Positivity in Branding When it comes to body positivity, we often think of workout routines or healthier eating habits, but no one ever initially thinks of fashion. Despite popular belief, there are some clothing brands that emphasize positive body images in their marketing campaigns. For an industry that is becoming more inclusive, advertisements focused on body positivity could result in an increasing consumer base. However, the sudden peak of inclusivity within the fashion industry is long overdue. For decades, women all around the world have dealt with the exclusivity of certain brands due to the shape of their body. Then again, maybe clothing brands have finally begun to listen to the female consumer. American Eagle and Aerie have done just that! The two stores have expanded the size selection of their clothing, so that they are able to sell to women of all shapes and sizes. American Eagle and Aerie can now help women feel more comfortable with their body shape and feel good in what they are wearing. Customers who visit their website
and store will see pictures and advertisements of plus sized models wearing their brand. Not only does American Eagle and Aerie display diverse models, but they each are perceived to be extremely confident in the clothing they are wearing. Iskra Lawrence is a well-known model for Aerie and has been an amazing body positivity influencer for Aerie. She shows that women should be embracing how they look instead of shaming themselves. On her Instagram page, you can find her constantly posting videos and statuses about how she wishes women would view themselves as the beautiful people they are and feeling good in their own skin. Lawrence promotes Aerie on her page by wearing its lingerie. When women see that, it gives them a sense of empowerment in their own skin. She supports Aerie being unlike any other brand. Arie wants women of all races, sizes, and ethnic backgrounds to feel welcomed into its brand and supported through all of its efforts.
Mikayla Bond 6.
Strong
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FREE
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CONTENT STRONG BEAUTIFUL
HAPPINESS ME FREE STROING AM POSITIVE JOYFUL
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#SelfLove
finding love in an industry that brings you down
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Even though you will have good days and bad, you will always remain yourself and there is no better feeling than looking in the mirror and realizing you are more than good enough
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Self-love is an issue that has faced numerous generations. Though none are exempt, it is an issue that mainly targets the women of society. Though acceptance of induviduality seems to be the new fad, there is always the little voice in the back of your head claiming, “You’re not pretty enough,” “You’re not thin enough,” “You’re not good enough.” It is inevitable that people feel this way because it is what they have been taught growing up. No one likes to think about the negative side of fashion, but when it comes down to it, we are entering into an industry that potentially destroys self-esteem. On the other hand, the fashion industry is also a form of expression and an outlet for acceptance and confidence for a large majority of individuals. I bring up these points because self-love is a key component when entering into an industry like ours. People will tell you no and tell you that you are not good enough. But they’re wrong. The group of girls on the cover each have an individual story just like you. They have experienced set-backs and instability, yet have reached a point in their journey in which they embody self-love. When asked about the current state of the fashion industry,
Emma remarked, “I’m glad that body positivity has finally made its debut in numerous campaigns. I want to be a part of an inEmma Wooley, ‘20 dustry that listens to the demands of the every day woman and celebrates women of all different shapes, sizes, and colors.” Similarly, Britt added, “I’ve modeled before for local companies in Erie so I’ve been on the opposite end of the spectrum. All women deserve to feel comfortable and confident with their bodies and I’m glad the industry is finally trying to emphasize that.” When it comes to feeling confident in her own skin, Amber is an advocate. Amber’s bubbly personality and ability to take charge when needed reflects her self-confidence. “I haven’t always been this confident,” she admits. “I was always the tallest in gradeschool and highschool, and though that helped me out on the basketball lexi crusciel, ‘19 court, it wasn’t enough to eliminate my self-consciousness.” Over the years, Amber has learned to love herself and the body that she is in. “Even though you will have good days and bad days, you will always remain yourself and there is never a better feeling than looking in the mirror and realizing you are more than good enough.” When asked if they knew individuals who altered their photographs to make themseleves appear differently on social media, each girl said yes. “I think it’s really sad,” Ashley remarked. “People feel like they need to change their physical appearance, but for what? An extra ‘like’ on instagram? It’s so sad to me and I wish I could tell those individuals that they are perfect the way that they are.” In this day and age everyone is so tied up in social media. Everything appears to be perfect through a phone screen, but nobody is perfect, and that is not something to grieve over but rather should be celebrated. Our flaws are what make us unique and beautiful and the day that everybody realizes that is one giant step towards a world filled with self-love.
Brittany furman, ‘21
ashley ferrari, ‘20
amber renz, ‘20
Briana Harrison 10.
keeping up with fashion council
October 11
first write night
october 18
visual merchandising event at millcreek mall
october 20
trip to the pumpkin patch
November 11 turkey bowl
to be determined holiday party stiletto & sneaker 5k
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2018-19
requirements
There is a new requirement this year to belong to Fashion Council. This year each member must participate or attend two events, volunteer at two events, and attend two meetings. All must be completed per semester. In addition there is a $10 dues each member must pay which will cover some of the fashion council expenses.
the letter project
The Fashion Council has recently become a chapter for a nonprofit organization known as The Letter Project. TLP is a community of women who build one another up through collaboration rather than competition. It is a faith-based nonprofit movement dedicated to writing letters to girls around the world who are in need of extra love and support.
get involved There are tons of events in store for fashion council this year. Such events include a meet and greet at Get Air, a trip to the pumpkin patch, a Halloween costume social, a Turkey Bowl powder puff football game, a Holiday party, the stiletto and sneaker 5k, and so much more! To get involved, sign up for our text message Remind app and submit your enrollment form. For more information follow @mercyhurstfashion on instagram or contact Ashlee Rzyczycki (Faculty facilitator) or Lexi Crusciel (Council President.)
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First Lady of Fashion
o you want to look and feel as powerful as our First Lady? With the right pieces you can emulate the elegant style of Melania Trump. As a result of being the United States’ First Lady, Melania’s stylistic choices often become trends. The exposure Melania receives being the First Lady has a large impact on the way she dresses. Her clothing choices are often stylish, yet powerful. The First Lady’s impressive sense of fashion has the young and old aspiring to mirror her choices. It is no surprise that there are many blogs, articles, and social media accounts dedicated specifically to the outfits Melania wears. The looks our First Lady wears exude power and confidence, characteristics women want to be able to imitate in their own style! Most of the time Melania is seen in professional, classy, and fashionable outfits. She often wears pieces such as matching pencil skirts and jacket sets, sheath dresses, sophisticated pant suits, coat dresses, and waist cinching belts.
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Suit Jackets:
A suit jacket is a highly professional and polished piece. When the jacket is tailored and fits the body correctly, it is both flattering and feminine. It can be paired with matching pants, a pencil skirt, or jeans for a more casual look. Melania loves to play around with color, making these jackets look fun and fashionable. A suit jacket gives off the aura of a woman who has it all figured out.
Pointed-toe Stilettos: You hardly ever see Melania in shoes that aren’t her Louboutin or Valentino heels. She loves a pop of color on her feet and plays around with patterns and textures. A classy pair of stilettos in a neutral color such as nude or black are must haves for any woman of power! Pointed-toe heels elongate the leg and give off the appearance of a leaner calf. Fashionable heels polish off the look while giving you a bit of a pep in your already fashionable step.
A Great, Versatile Coat:
Melania loves to finish off her looks by draping a beautiful coat over her shoulders. Having a coat that effectively keeps you warm in the dead of winter, but also gives off the air of a Victoria’s Secret runway model is a piece of clothing every woman should have in her closet. Our first lady particularly adores camel coats, trench coats, and pea coats. She pairs bold, colorful coats with neutral outfits to take the look up a notch and make a statement!
I put together a few outfits showcasing pieces that Melania would wear! These looks are perfect if you want to get dressed up and look super sharp. Her clothing displays professionalism and love for designer fashion. Will you be showing off these First Lady looks this fall and winter season?
Alainah Sfamenos
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now trending
everything you need to know from nyfw SS19 Fierce femininity is how I would describe this year’s New York Fashion Week. Far from the mélange styles of this past year come smooth silhouettes, powerful prints, and a clean cut character that is hard to resist. This Spring/Summer season will be a refreshing break from the whirlwind of styles that has become popular recently, while still giving fashionistas a chance to make it their own.
The soft drapes of silk and satin were contrasted by textured leathers on the runway this season. Together, these rich materials create a strong silhouette that can be casual or formal. Look to Alexander Wang, Brandon Maxwell, and Longchamp for a look that will set you apart from the crowd.
Sarah Fertal 13.
It’s time to toss those tiny sunglasses away, because oversized sunnies are back! Take a hint from Kate Spade and Tory Burch, whose models are sultry and mysterious behind the obscuring view of their sunglasses. The most notable shapes were the cat eye and flat top glasses, which bring a modern edge to a classic style.
Christian Siriano leads the way with a variety of monochromatic looks, but his all-white designs are by far the most stunning. Sometimes the simplest of looks can be the most appealing, and that is apparent to the designers of Brandon Maxwell and Cushni. Pair an easygoing white skirt with a glamorous white top, and you’ll have a look that is truly straight from the runway.
The pantsuit has been a symbol of female empowerment since the 1930’s. But far in the past are the grey and black suits of old. Designers such as Tom Ford, Badgley Mischka, and Tory Burch have interpreted the pantsuit with pops of pink, beautiful satin, and vertical stripes that are a visual dream.
NYFW
firsthand experience
My trip to New York Fashion Week started out very rocky and was pretty spontaneous. We booked the flights to New York City the day before fashion week kicked off and left Mercyhurst that Friday. Our flight was delayed because of a rainstorm so we ended up landing in New York City at 1:30 in the morning. When we landed we were not pleased to find out that the airline had left our luggage in Philadelphia, meaning we had no clothes to wear to the fashion show the next morning. Talk about tragic! Thankfully they were sent on the first flight the next morning and we were able to go to the airport and pick them up before the show. I was so excited to get ready and go to the show but had no idea what to wear because there was just so many options! Finally, I opted for a ruffled white blouse, navy pants, my favorite statement necklace, and hot pink heels. We had two shows to go to that day, one in the morning at 10:30 and one in the evening at 8:30. Both shows were held by emerging designers trying to make a name for themselves in the industry. When I stepped out of the taxi cab I was immediately in awe. The venue was filled with flashing lights as well as a red carpet with the New York Fashion Week backdrop. When we walked in we
Morgan Kutzavitch
grabbed our “goodie bags� and proceeded to sit by the runway in the front row. Shortly after, the lights dimmed, and music started to fill the whole room. One by one, each model strutted down the runway wearing haute couture clothing, each with an intense focus in her eyes. It was like a dream as each model walked past in a new flashy outfit. There was everything from one-of-a-kind pastel dresses, to a man wearing a disco ball on his head dressed in a studded leather jacket. My favorite piece of the night had to be a white off-the-shoulder fringe bodysuit. It was gorgeous, and when the model spun around all of the fringe had moved to the side. I loved the final walk all the models took, which enabled the collection to be seen as a whole. It was breathtaking! When the show ended, I was completely inspired and proceeded to go out to the red carpet to take pictures with the models and designers. I met a few designers and talked to them about their inspiration and told them how I was a freshman at Mercyhurst majoring in fashion merchandising. They were so engaged in our conversation and I was thrilled at the end of the night. Overall, it was a once in a lifetime experience that I am never going to be able to forget!
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outfit formulas for every body
Everyone knows how hard it can be to pick out an outfit in the morning. Then, we all know what happens next. Your room is left a mess because, well, you just didn’t know what to wear. Here are some outfit ideas perfect for your body type to make it easier for you next time you need an outfit. Embrace your shape ladies!
Pear Shape
If your hips are wider than your shoulders, then you would be classified as a pear body type. This outfit would look amazing on you! This square neck top would be perfect for you as it will help create the illusion of wider shoulders. It is also fitted so it is going to show off your defined waistline. Oh, and the print … DYING … it will help draw the eye up from the bottom half and show off your shoulders and waistline. To complete the look, pair the bodysuit with these wide leg jeans. The wide bottoms of the pants will draw the eye away from your hips and create balanced proportions in your legs. The pleats near the waistline will also help show off your waistline by drawing the eye in. Did I forget to mention how cute they are?
Hourglass Shape
If your hips and shoulders are relatively the same measurement and your waist is defined, you have an hourglass body shape. Time to show off your curves! This dress will show off your curves and your defined waistline. You can also dress it up for a night out or dress it down to wear in the summer. What more could you ask for? Chunky sneakers are the new trend and have been seen EVERYWHERE. They would also be the perfect shoe to dress down the dress for a casual daytime look. To complete this look, add on a fanny pack. Not only are they super “in’ right now, but they will also help draw attention in to your defined waistline!
rectangle Shape If you don’t seem to have many curves and your body is relatively all the same
measurements from your shoulders, to your waist, and then to your hips, you have a rectangle body shape. This look will be perfect for you. This top is EVERYTHING! It is perfect for a rectangular body shape as the buckle will draw attention in towards your waist and create an illusion of a defined waistline. Pair that top with these funky pants. These are perfect for your body type as they will also create an illusion of a defined waistline because they are fitted on the waist and flare out at the bottoms. Oh, and you are definitely going to get so many compliments on these.
inverted triangle Shape If your shoulder measurements are wider than your hips then you have an inverted triangle body type. Here’s how you should best show it off! This V-neck bustier top is perfect for your body type as it is going to draw the attention in towards your waist and away from your shoulders. Not to mention, How cute is this? This skirt is the perfect combination of feminine and edgy. The A-line silhouette is perfect for your body type as it is going to help make your hips appear wider than they are. It will also help to balance the proportion between your hips and your shoulders. The pattern is so unique and cute! Casey Phillips 16.
MU FASHION in Italy
“Hey now, hey now, this is what dreams are made of!” As Lizzie McGuire would say while singing in the Colosseum in Italy. Although, we didn’t meet our Paolo and become an instant international superstar, the Fashion Department did live out a dream of traveling to Italy this past May. The trip was nine days long starting in Milan, and then to Florence and Rome from there. Each city was unique and made me, and I’m sure everyone else, fall in love with the country more and more each day. First things first, let’s talk about the amazing food. Usually when people think of Italy, they think of the amazing cuisine that they have.The drinks there were delicious, and the crowd favorite was a Spritz. A Spritz consisted of Aperol (an Italian liquor), prosecco, and orange soda. It was the perfect summer drink and made everyone feel like one of the natives. We also tried all the main staple dishes, from tortellini, to spaghetti, risotto de Milanese, pizza, and gelato. Let me tell you too, I could eat that food all day, every day. We also had the chance to experience a lot of educational, yet mesmerizing fashion opportunities. My favorites included the Gucci Garden, fashion walk in Milan, and Leonardo Leather. The Gucci Garden, which is a museum for Gucci, was one of my most favorite stops out of each one. The whole museum was thoughtful, from the pieces exhibited to the paint on the walls. The whole place was truly mesmerizing, I would find myself staring at pieces in awe. We also had the chance to go on a walking tour of the fashion district in Milan. This was so cool because not only did
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we get to walk the streets of one of the biggest fashion capitals, but we got to see all the luxury designers that fashion buffs dream of. Even though I wish I could have stopped and made some purchases along the way, the tour was still an amazing way to see the city and learn. The last amazing fashion experience was at Leonardo Leather in Florence. For those who don’t know, Florence is known for its leather, and if you are in the market for a new purse or wallet, Florence is the place to get it. Before inevitably shopping, we got to talk to some of the workers and learn all about the process of making leather and transforming it into the gorgeous pieces that filled their shelves. I of course, along with the rest of the squad, made several purchases while we were there, and I treated myself to an adorable accordion satchel. Besides the fashion side of the trip, we also made stops at all the famous historical places throughout the country. Throughout our trip we made stops at the Galleria Vittorio Emauele II, various churches including the Vatican, Trevi Fountain, Coliseum, and the statue of David. These are all places you see in movies, and read about in books, and in person the presence of these magical places truly takes your breath away. Looking back, these were experiences that were chances of a lifetime, and I couldn’t be more grateful to the fashion department for the opportunity. Not only did I get to go to a place I have always dreamed of, but I got to expand my knowledge and love for fashion even more.
Natalie Thompson
Alumni Spotlight Lexi Spoden
assistant buyer at tory burch new york, new york
1.What was your experience at Mercyhurst like? My experience at Mercyhurst was definitely a positive one. It gave me a well rounded education which I may not have been able to get if I were to attend all four years at a more specialized school such as FIT. So to be able to get the best of both worlds - the college experience plus being able to attend FIT and get internship experience in New York City - was extremely beneficial in my opinion, not only for my education, but for life experience as well.
2. How did interning impact your future? Being in New York City, I was able to get three internships before I graduated (two on my own, and one for school credit at FIT), which helped me figure out what I wanted to pursue as a job once I graduated. I made sure that my internships were in different areas (one in marketing, one in sales, and one in buying), so I could get real experience and figure out what I liked most. I ended up pursuing buying/merchandising!
4. Do you have any advice about how to be
successful in the industry? Success is not a straight line, so don’t think there is a formula to get there. Don’t compare yourself to others - Everyone’s path is different! Know what you are passionate about, and really dig deep to figure out what that is. Be honest with yourself and know your strengths. My favorite success books are “Self Made” by Nely Galan and “You Are a Badass...” by Jen Sincero.
3. How have you successfully moved up the
industry ladder in such a short period of time? My current position is Associate Merchant for Tory Sport. When I graduated, I actually first worked at The Children’s Place (headquartered in Secaucus, NJ) as a Merchandising Assistant for about a year and a half. Then, Tory Burch HR got in contact with me and I learned about Tory Sport, which was her new activewear brand. I was immediately intrigued, and ended up taking the job as Assistant Buyer. Even though this was more of a lateral career move, I knew it was right for me because I would be working with product that I was passionate about, and for a company with values that matched my own. Then after a year and a half with Tory, I was promoted to Associate Merchant.
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#SelfLove
A special thank you to Jen, Amber, Lexi, Ashley, Emma, and Britt for making this issue of STATEMENT possible.
STATEMENT FALL 2018 MERCYHURST UNIVERSITY FASHION MERCHANDISING DEPARTMENT