photo by: Victoria McGinty
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Because It’s More Than Just a Piece of Fabric...
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The Top Four Ethical Makeup Brands You Need in Your Makeup Bag
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Cover Model Spotlight: Meet Mia
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Back in Time for Black Fashion
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That Cruelty-Free Glow Tho
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More Than Clothes
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Alumni Spotlight
01. photo by: Victoria McGinty
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03. photo by: Victoria McGinty
Letters from the Editors W
rapping up my final issue of STATEMENT has been quite bittersweet. I remember contemplating on whether to apply for the coeditor position and the utter shock and excitement I experienced when receiving the news I had been picked. I have an immense amount of gratitude for this experience and all of the invaluable skills it has taught me. I have now designed and contributed towards six issues over the past three years, and with each one my confidence grew. Taking on this position has allowed me to see myself as the BOSS I am, and for that, I am so grateful. This issue in particular speaks to those in the fashion industry that are contributing to a good cause. Thus, after a hectic year, I hope you all enjoy this collection of positivity. Of course, I would like to thank my co-editor, Emma and wish her the best of luck in taking over as editor! Thanks again to Victoria McGinty, for taking the cover model photos for us and finally, Jen for overseeing and guiding us throughout this process. This may be my last issue, but I’m on to my next step in making a STATEMENT!
- MACKENZIE LE WIS
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icking back into a new semester has proven once again to be a stressful event, so being able to write and help create this issue has been a major solace. Again, we have seen how the outside world affects each one of us. So, in light of recent events highlighted in the media, the topic for this issue is meant to bring us together in a world that works hard to divide us. We wanted to highlight the good we can find not only within the world around us, but in the bustling fashion industry. More than ever, I enjoyed being able to be a part of this issue and overwhelmed with satisfaction that I was able to contribute to putting this together. So as the semester rages on, I hope everyone can find a moment of peace to kick back and enjoy this issue.
- EMMA THOMAS
photos by: Victoria McGinty
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BECAUSE IT’S MORE THAN JUST A PIECE OF FABRIC… Recent studies have shown younger generations paying more attention to the reputation of the companies they choose to shop at. Strategically, philanthropy and sustainability are ways for major brands to make a positive impact in society and attract more customers. Three wonderful brands that make sacrifices to their profits by maintaining sustainable practice and giving back to the community are Made Trade, FEED, and Macy’s. Made Trade is a brand that uses recycled materials and vegan leather to locally construct beautiful handmade handbags in Los Angeles. They believe that together we can make the world a more beautiful place by holding ourselves to a higher ethical standard. By putting artistry above efficiency and sustainability, and above mass production this company does not cut any corners in its mission to put people and our planet above profit. FEED is a brand that collaborates with local designers to manufacture accessories, handbags, totes and home goods. From its sales, FEED provides daily school meals to children in need. The number printed on the FEED product represents the number of meals the product will provide. So far, the brand has provided over 100 million healthy meals. Macy’s department store, well known for its Thanksgiving Day Parade, is also committed to giving back to its community. The company supports local Green Business Councils and organizes recycling drives. Macy’s associates also donate their time to park cleanups and planting trees. Since 2013 Macy’s has donated 10 million dollars worth of clothing, from coats to keep people warm through the cold winters, to prom dresses to make a teenager’s high school dance memorable. Macy’s doesn’t stop at clothing and saving the environment, it’s also committed to ending world hunger! Over 37 million people are affected by hunger in the US and 11 million of them are children. Since 1998 Macy’s has donated tens of millions of dollars through its Bag Hunger Campaign. Macy’s finds many additional ways to put confidence back into our communities across the country. When you shop at Macy’s, you know you’re contributing to a great cause.
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MARISA RIPEPI
Subscribe. Shop. Support a subscription box t hat gives back
some ethical products as well, but CAUSEBOX without a doubt is the more progressive option. Around a year ago, when the coronavirus rudely barged into our lives, I moved back home to finish out the spring semester. Out of fear and uncertainty I refused to leave my house. For weeks I would step outside for some fresh air and then return to the comfort of my home. Although, I am naturally a homebody and more introverted, even I was desperate to experience the outside world again. I missed spending time with friends, going to the movies, eating out, and of course shopping. Then, my best friend reached out asking if I would want a free FabFitFun starter box, in which my response was, “YES!” Receiving a subscription box full of quality made products in the midst of a pandemic was like a pot of gold. The anticipation of receiving this surprise box and what came inside was the most excitement I had felt in a long time. Ever since, I have tested out other beauty and lifestyle subscriptions such as Ipsy, Birchbox, and now my latest obsession CAUSEBOX. CAUSEBOX is very comparable to FabFitFun in which you take a survey to receive highquality products personalized to you and your interests. Although, the most significant difference is that CAUSEBOX is ethically made, sustainably sourced, and cruelty free. They even commission different artists to design each seasonal box! FabFitFun definitely includes
MACKENZIE LEWIS
I recently purchased the CAUSEBOX winter intro box. It was only $25 and contained products that valued over $150. My favorite product from my winter intro box is the mint green PMD Beauty Clean ($99 value). The PMD Beauty Clean is a smart facial cleansing device. It helps breaks down dirt and oil within the pores by using four different vibration modes. Best of all, it is made out of silicone, so it is antibacterial, hypoallergenic, and waterproof. My second item was the mint green waffle towel set ($90 value). This came with two bath and two hand towels. These towels were made from natural textiles to be sustainable. I also received reusable zip pouches by Boon Supply ($22 value). Not only is the product itself sustainable, but the company also gives back with its unique business model. The pouches can easily be cleaned and reused, cutting back on plastic disposal. Lastly, my final item was the Alt-cooking Hub silicone food cover set. I am so fascinated by these. They are silicone tops that stretch to fit around different sized bowls. Utilizing these reusable covers is a good alternative to cling wrap. There are so many companies and brands dedicated to providing ethical and sustainable products, including CAUSEBOX. Subscription box services are not only convenient but a fun and exciting way to obtain quality products throughout the year. I have received some really great products that I plan on purchasing again. I highly recommend trying it out at least once.
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THE TOP FOUR ETHICAL BRANDS Drunk Elephant In the year of quarantine and wearing masks for hours, taking care of skin is extremely crucial. To help eliminate that “mask-acne,” Drunk Elephant is a great skin-care brand to clear up your skin. It is on the pricier side of skincare, and not all products are vegan, but the brand formulates clean and natural ingredients for its products to help with all skin types. Recommended Products: Lala Retro Whipped Moisturizer with Ceramides
Isle of Paradise The sun is finally peeking through the dark clouds; so let the season of self-tanning begin. For those looking for a dependable, yet affordable product to enhance their summer glow, this is the brand for you. Its products are also 100% vegan with organic ingredients for the best bronze glow. The Isle of Paradise uses self-tanning water, so that means you do not need to use a mitten or worry about staining your clothes. Recommended Product: Isle of Paradise Self-Tanning Water
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MIKAYLA VANDERMEID
YOU NEED IN YOUR MAKEUP BAG Glossier Glossier is your must-have to receive that dewy and glowy look for the summer without paying a large price. If you prefer products with light coverage, pigmented, and get that natural “no-makeup” look, this brand is for you. They also offer a cruelty-free sunscreen that is light and leaves no greasy residue. Recommended Product: Glossier Cloud Paint
Bliss Bliss is another cruelty-free skin-care brand that focuses on skin and body products. This brand is an affordable alternative to Drunk Elephant with effective products. This brand also offers cruelty-free makeup wipes that wipe away your makeup instantly. It is a must-have for your makeup bag, and if you are looking for a cruelty-free brand of wipes to take your makeup off. Recommended Product: Makeup Melt Oil-Free Makeup Wipes
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The Brains Behind @boho basement Coming in as a freshman, I thought I had it all figured out. Although I knew absolutely nothing about the industry, fashion was an easy choice for me. My ignorance was soon overcome after taking the Intro to Fashion course. I remember being excited, yet anxious after learning about the horrible effects the fashion industry has on the environment. Later that year I recall watching the film, “River Blue,” which documented the impact the fashion industry has in contributing towards pollution. It’s bizarre how I remember that after three years, but it was that impactful. (By the way, really great film, 11/10 recommend). At that point, I became obsessed with the thought of changing my lifestyle and becoming a conscious consumer. By sophomore year, I decided to take up both business and sustainability in hopes of finding a way to create change within the fashion industry. Fast forward three years and we run into a global pandemic. Recently single and stuck in the never-ending cycle of quarantine, I had no choice but to tackle the mounds of clothing that were hiding under my bed for years. I’m never one to get rid of anything, but after my first sale on Poshmark, it was game over. I listed hundreds of items on platforms like Curtsy, Depop, Vinted etc. until I stumbled across a reseller on Instagram. I had always noticed girls creating Instagram “closets” to get rid of their old clothes, but I was unfamiliar with thrift flipping. After discovering the thrift community and
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running out of clothes to sell from my personal closet, I convinced myself to try sourcing and reselling. I had always thought about starting a zerowaste account for the sole purpose of sharing ecoconscious tips, but after discovering the benefits of shopping second hand, I decided to merge the two ideas. I quit my jobs at Free People and Victoria’s Secret, to pursue my newfound passion full-time (or until school started back up). By the end of July 2020, @boho_basement was in full swing! For those that aren’t familiar with the thrift accounts on Instagram, they’re accounts that upcycle, rework, and resell vintage/second-hand clothing. As a community, we love using Instagram as our main selling platform because of our ability to tailor our small businesses to fit our aesthetic and demand of our followers. Unlike other accounts, my goal is not just to turn a profit. In fact, I barely made a “profit” until the last month or so. My main objective is to help educate my followers on the importance of slow fashion, and provide them with sustainable, affordable, pieces. Right now, I’m in the process of re-branding and creating a website to start to sell custom, sustainable, clothing. However, my current selling process is much different. Essentially, I plan a drop (usually with some sort of theme) and then spend the next week or two promoting it on my account. By the time of the drop, which is just the designated date and time the items will be open to purchase, you then have 12-24 hours to “bid” or “bin” an item. In doing this, I hope to give my followers an opportunity to purchase quality, environmentally friendly, and unique pieces, at an affordable price.
photo by: Victoria McGinty
photo by: Victoria McGinty
photo by: Victoria McGinty
photo by: Victoria McGinty
MIA D ’ AMATO
photo by: Victoria McGinty
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This year has been the year of change and acceptance. Retail stores and brands all over have released clothing lines in respect to black history month. Target partnered with Black students from historically black colleges and universities (HBCUs) as they designed a whole collection of apparel supporting black empowerment. Forever 21 released its own collection as well. This trend is a fresh breath of air that is long overdue.
Ann Lowe
Willi Smit h
Due to America’s history of social injustice and inequity, many Black figures in fashion have been overlooked, copied, or shunned away. There are many talents that have gone unrecognized simply because of the color of their skin. Now that the world has advanced, it’s time to serve credit where it’s due. Serving as the first example is the story of Ann Lowe. This African American fashion designer received no credit after creating one of the most famous wedding dresses for Jackie Kennedy. Kennedy later told reporters that “a colored dressmaker” made her dress. For any other designer, this would have at least elevated her name in the fashion world. The fashion industry has been heavily built on the backs of Black Americans and to this day, their names are hardly known. However, society remembers their ideas and how to make themselves a profit. Have you heard of the term “Streetwear”? It’s typically used to describe a casual look, but the inventor had something else in mind. Willi Smith invented the fashionable term “Streetwear” to describe the clothing he made for real people. One of his famous quotes read “I don’t design clothes for the queen, but for the people who wave at her as she goes by.” Zelda Wynn Valdes is another name that doesn’t read too familiar to us. At the height of her career, Valdes was designing clothes for well-known artists including Nat King Cole’s wife, Maria Cole. It is also believed that she produced about thirty-five of the famous Playboy bunny costumes when she worked there.
Zelda Wynn Valdes 11.
I can’t help but wonder how many “colored dressmakers” there were, and how many of the most famous fashion terms were invented by a Black designer. We learn about foreign designers all the time; we look up to them and want to collect their items. It’s time we learn about all the Black Americans who were hidden behind the big curtain of injustice and learn to say their names too.
JANIECE WITHERS
The fashion and beauty industries are so incredibly vast, with countless talented designers, creatives, and entrepreneurs. This past year has opened many people’s eyes to the injustice brought upon people of color in America. Combating and overcoming this form of hate and racism has unfortunately not been a simple task. Although it may be a small gesture in the entirety of this battle, supporting businesses owned by BIPOC is one way to empower and build them up. I have listed just a few incredible female-owned businesses worth checking out:
Wasi Clothing Wasi Clothing was founded by Vanessa Acosta. Her mission was to put Bolivian culture on the map. She selects textiles that are personally sourced from South America and handmade from scratch in Los Angeles. It is also a sustainable and ethical business that provides fair and equal wages for everyone. Wasi Clothing has a wide variety of merchandise. Although, my favorite is its graphic tees. They are very affordable and super stylish!
AMYO AMYO, which is creatively an acronym for “accessories make your outfit,” is owned by Korean American, Gina Nam. She grew up in a family of jewelers and noticed how wasteful the industry can be trying to keep up with trends, so she set out to make minimalist and evergreen pieces meant to last at an affordable price point. I love AMYO’s jewelry. The pieces are so timeless that they can easily be worn for decades to come and remain stylish.
Girl + Hair The founder of Girl and Hair, Camille Verovic began seeking a way to find healthy products to care for her natural hair after a drastic haircut. Now she is the owner of an innovative multicultural hair care brand. Girl and Hair products are dermatologist recommended and backed by scientific research. Girl and Hair is specifically created for women with curly and kinky hair but includes products for all hair types as well.
SKwálwen Sḵwálwen (skwall - win) is an Indigenous business creating botanical skin care products. Ethnobotanist Leigh Joseph, whose Squamish ancestral name is Styawat, founded Sḵwálwen. Sḵwálwen incorporates sustainably harvested plants and high-quality ingredients into its products. Additionally, each product is labeled with a Squamish name to honor the place where the plant knowledge comes from.
MACKENZIE LEWIS
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Certified Cruelty-Free Bunny Logos
That Cruelty-Free Glow Tho Shopping for cruelty-free and ethical cosmetic products may seem difficult or expensive, but with the correct research, you can find products right for you without breaking the bank! What does it mean when a product says it is cruelty-free or vegan? When a brand refers to its products as vegan, this implies that there are no animal products or animal ingredients. A common animal ingredient in skincare is honey, which is not vegan. Although, it might be crueltyfree. A cruelty-free product is not tested on animals but may contain animal ingredients. It is important to research the products because a consumer cannot assume that a vegan product is necessarily crueltyfree. Avoid brands that use uncertified bunny logos or greenwashing. Brands or products sometimes use a bunny symbol with no official certification to fool the consumers into thinking they are ethical. There are three symbols to look out for when shopping cruelty-free. Greenwashing means that they claim their products are cruelty-free when that statement is not entirely true. There are multiple steps within product development, therefore the brand may not have tested the final product on animals but may have in the beginning stages. However, some countries require animal testing on products before they are sold there by law. Suppliers and third parties should also be kept in mind when referring to brands as cruelty-free. This tactic is used for marketing purposes to manipulate the customer into thinking that the product they are buying is cruelty-free since there isn’t an official logo. Research plays a crucial role when shopping ethically. When in doubt, look up the ingredients and search on “Cruelty Free Kitty” or “Ethical Elephant” on your web browser to be 100% certain.
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MIKAYLA VANDERMEID
CAN YOU MAKE A CHANGE? With the current state of the world, between a world pandemic, fights towards racial equality, and overall a hope for better days, people are looking for any way to make a difference. Following the brutal killing of George Floyd, America has had enough of this injustice, and much of the world believed the same. Between marches, protests, and fundraising to help raise awareness for any sort of change. A huge wave of support occurred with the #BlackOutTuesday movement, where people on all social media platforms could show their stance against racism. Anyone with a social media account could take a stance, and this was a perfect idea for brands with a large platform to help. This is where fashion brands come into play. With such a large platform, fashion brands were able to express their support through social media. Many large brands such as Chanel, Louis Vuitton, and Nike posted their support for the movement and encouraged their customers to do the same. Many other brands have shown their support in different ways and the brand Lousia Ballou is a perfect example. Lousia Ballou is a swimwear line that is primarily known for bold prints and cut-out bikinis. It has decided to donate all of its profits to BLM and the Anti-racism Center. This is an outstanding job, as Lousia Ballou is not only showing its support towards the movement, but it is giving back as well.
Fashion Takes on the Fight
However, donating is not the only way of showing extended support. Some brands, such as Converse, are finding ways to include people of color in their advertisements. In their latest launch with Union LA, a company that supports up-and-coming designers, and interior designer Sheila Bridges collaborated to create a magical campaign. Using the streets of NYC as their backdrop, the goal of the shoot was to embrace Bridges’ African American culture. Overall, with so many people showing their support for the Black Lives Matter movement, we are already starting to see its positive effects. Many people are beginning to want to only purchase from large companies that support the movement, and some even focus their purchases on black-owned companies. With this continuous support, equality will happen for all.
ALAYNA MOORHEAD
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As a fan of lounge wear, I am no stranger to a comfortable, plain t-shirt. However, I feel more at peace with my comfortable fashion choices when I know that they are working to help do good. This is especially true when they are helping to save turtles. I know what you’re thinking, how do turtles relate to fashion? The answer is simpler than you would have expected. When it comes to popular trends like t-shirt brands donating proceeds to charities, a specific brand—Shelly Cove, hits close to home for me. Shelly Cove aims to sell cute, affordable products that satisfy a customer’s need for comfortable lounge wear, but the company is founded on a policy of giving back. With brightly colored t-shirts and other forms of lounge wear, Shelly Cove provides fun and comfortable clothes that are often on theme with each corresponding holiday. Donating a portion of its proceeds to a non-profit foundation, Shelly Cove aims to help motivate its consumers to help save the turtles. However, these donations do more than encourage consumers to skip a straw. They do this by donating directly to the cause and foundation focused solely on rescuing, nursing, and preserving wild sea turtles. This foundation is the Karen Beasley Turtle Research and Rehabilitation Center, or KBTH. The hospital follows three simple steps to ensure the preservation and conservation of all types of marine turtles. The steps are as follows: Rescue, Rehabilitation, and Release. Equipped with the necessary facilities to do this, the foundation focuses on providing
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Pictured above are volunteers of the KBTH Releasing a Turtle
immediate aid to injured or sick sea turtles and nursing them back to health. Beyond this, the KBTH also watches out for nesting locations along the beaches of Topsail Island and are on constant look out to ensure they are properly taped off to the public. The end goal is to get the turtles healthy enough to set them free, and the foundation is willing to keep the turtles for as long as they need—even a lifetime. While there are numerous brands that host similar causes including Ivory Ella and Pawz, Shelly Cove hits a particular soft spot for me. Located just inland of Topsail Island, The Turtle Hospital, as my family has lovingly nicknamed it, is a treasured part of my childhood. The Karen Beasley
Sea Turtle Hospital focuses on the rescue of marine turtles while offering small tours to the public in the area. The KBTH is a wonderful place to visit, and often times works wonderfully to take you out of the hustle and bustle of frantic tourists who are bouncing along the island. The KBTH helps you focus on the good that can happen in a seemingly small town. Moreover it is nice to know a big company, like Shelly Cove, is helping support small towns, businesses, and a worth-while cause. Shelly Cove is a quality small-business brand that works to give back and inspire communities to do good. While it stays true to its mission of giving back to KBTH, it has several other charitable foundations that it gives a portion of its monthly profits to. With core values that focus on the passion of giving back, committing to small acts of kindness, and providing transparent and honest prices and marketing—Shelly Cove can inspire people to do good. While restrictions with the ongoing pandemic have made it difficult to come together to give back, I do encourage that we still find a way to do something. Brands like Shelly Cove are perfect examples of little ways to help fight for a change and work toward a cause. Even if we do things as small as share about charitable brands or do something as simple as buy a t-shirt, we are still contributing to change and good for all. So, as we move forward through this pandemic, I urge you to pause every once in a while to think about what your clothes say about you, because at the end of the day, wouldn’t it be wonderful if they were helping to save the turtles?
EMMA THOMAS
Karen Beasley standing by one of the tanks inside the hospital.
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FACULTY FEATURE: Jennifer Craven
I've always been a "wordy" person—not in the vocal sense, but in the idea of falling headfirst into a book and not wanting to come out. For as long as I can remember, I've been a book lover. I snuck books into school and propped them inside my textbooks during class. I spend more on books than on clothes (and that's saying something for a fashionista!). High school was when I started truly developing a love of writing. Fast forward many years, and my writing developed through blogging and other essays, some of which landed in wellrespected publications. Paired with my love of reading, it sort of was a natural fit wthat I would start drafting a novel in 2019. A bucket list dream came true when "A Long Way from Blair Street" was published last year, and then "All That Shines and Whispers" just last month. I've had a blast writing and bringing these two novels to market. And the ideas aren't stopping anytime soon...so you can be sure to see more books from me in the future.
ALL THAT SHINES AND WHISPERS: This "Sound of Music" retelling imagines what happens to these beloved characters after the film credits rolled. Set against the backdrop of Nazi-era Europe, it examines themes of betrayal and redemption. At the center of this too-good-to-be-true family is Lara, on the cusp of womanhood and holding a deep, dangerous secret. The family's wholesome image is in jeopardy, but Lara is tired of living a lie. When she makes a choice, it comes with devastating consequences. Once again, her father must come to the rescue...but will it be too late?
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This or That
summer 2021 fashion trends strappy wrapped heels or straps glitter or pastels netting or sheer bralette or crop top cape or puffy sleeves corset or cutouts wide-leg or track suit pants mini or maxi dress skirt
Christy (Simko) Pelosi Merchandise Planner Eddie Bauer Bellevue, WA 2016 Alum
Merchandise Planning combines my love of math & my interest in merchandising. Mercyhurst prepared me for this position by offering a wellrounded education within the fashion industry that has helped me make well-informed decisions as a Merchandise Planner.
Kristin Haas Assistant Buyer Dick’s Sporting Goods Pittsburgh, PA 2018 Alum
I love my job because it allows me the opportunity to have a hand in all aspects of the buying process. I have a chance to apply what I learned at MU when I work with our visual merchandising team, and product development partners on each season’s buys.
Allyson Gass HR Assistant American Eagle Outfitters Pittsburgh,PA 2015 Alum
Sara Oppenheimer Account Director Under Armour Baltimore, MD 2005 Alum
Kayla Kelly Merchandise Assortment Planner Dick’s Sporting Goods Pittsburgh, PA 2014 ALUM
I love my job because along with welcoming new hires into the organization during the onboarding process, I am also able to connect with associates across the organization through various other projects. I love my career because it engages both sides of my brain, from creative assortment planning to utilizing data and analytics to inform business decisions and strategy. I also enjoy the softer psychological side of leading a team, finding out what makes teammates tick and keeping them engaged and motivated to move forward and hit our goals.
I love my job because it allows me to use math/ logic to help support a style’s story. And I get to work closely with an amazing team of buyers and planners to make that story a reality!
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A special thank you to Jen, Mia, and Victoria for making this issue of the STATEMENT possible
photo by: Victoria McGinty