Her Story
About Arlene
I've been in the fashion industry for over 25 years, working as a Senior Technical Designer in New York City. I started my career right from school as an intern, then moved into product development, and eventually into technical design where I've been for 25+ years. In my role, I work completely with design directors and designers on development, which includes issuing initial tech packs to pattern corrections, draping, fitting on live models, and maintaining constant communication with overseas vendors and domestic vendors here in New York. One of my greatest joys was working at Ralph Lauren, where I got to travel all over South America and to Hong Kong doing development work with vendors. I got to see how things were made and how fabric is developed in the mill. I also had incredible traveling experiences at NESI (N-E-S-I). Being a New Yorker and working for elite designers like Ralph Lauren, Calvin Klein, and others has been an amazing journey. Some of my work has been featured in Forbes Japan for creative work I did, and also in the Smithsonian for modest dressings for hijabs. That was around 2019-2020 during COVID, when they had a really big show featuring designers from around the world. It was quite impressive because the things I do help develop, so I never know where it's going to take me sometimes, but it's amazing to see it come alive again.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Arlene
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to longevity in this industry. It's always been a challenge, but staying in the fashion industry for over 25 years and continuing to grow and develop has been key. The ability to maintain accountability and responsibility for my projects, being on time, and working well with others has helped me sustain my career. People appreciate when you're honest about mistakes and take ownership of your work, and that's been fundamental to my success over the years.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I've ever received is about being accountable. People like it when you're honest about whether you made a mistake or not. Just being responsible for your projects, being on time, and working well with others has been the most valuable guidance I've received throughout my career. Accountability and honesty are what people really appreciate in this industry.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
In this industry, my advice would be to learn as much as you can. Don't rush to the finish line, whatever that may be. But learn - if you're a designer, learn the technique, study construction, study fabric. Take your time to really understand the fundamentals and build a strong foundation. The knowledge and skills you develop early on will serve you throughout your entire career, so don't be in a hurry to skip those important learning steps.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
The biggest challenge in my field is communication. People need to be accurate about what they want to get the best finished product. Vision comes first - someone who has great vision and can communicate that makes my life really easy. When that doesn't happen, I have to see sample after sample, which is not cost-effective and not a good thing. A designer and a brand with a good vision is key to success in this industry. Clear communication from the start saves time, money, and ensures quality results.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Accountability is the most important value to me in both my work and personal life. Being accountable for my actions, my projects, and my commitments is fundamental to how I operate. It's about taking responsibility, being honest, and following through on what I say I'm going to do.
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