Her Story
About Charlotte
Charlotte Smith is a creative professional, magazine publisher, and visual storyteller whose career spans publishing, film, fashion, and the arts. She founded HARLO Magazine after gaining valuable experience with established publications and creative organizations, building the platform as a celebration of fashion, art, culture, and emerging talent. A graduate of Boston University (BU) with a bachelor’s degree in Cinematography and Film/Video Production, Charlotte developed a strong foundation in storytelling, production, and creative leadership. She further expanded her expertise by earning a Fashion Styling Foundations Certificate from the Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT), combining her passion for visual creativity with industry knowledge in editorial styling and fashion production.
Throughout her career, Charlotte has gained hands-on experience across multiple creative industries, beginning with work in film production, commercials, and television before expanding into fashion and editorial environments. Her background includes contributions to projects with organizations such as Sony Pictures Entertainment, Vox Media, Christian Louboutin, and independent film productions, where she developed skills in production management, collaboration, and creative execution. As the Founder, Creative Director, and Editor-in-Chief of HARLO Magazine, Charlotte oversees the publication’s creative vision, leading editorial development, directing photoshoots, writing content, managing creative teams, and bringing each issue from concept to completion.
Currently serving as a Gallery Associate at Amsterdam Whitney Gallery, Charlotte continues to explore the intersection of art, culture, and storytelling through exhibition support, visual direction, and creative projects. Her artistic background as a painter also influences her editorial approach, allowing her to bring a unique perspective to visual storytelling and brand development. Beyond her professional achievements, Charlotte is committed to using her creativity for social impact through an art account that donates proceeds to the NAACP. Her dedication to innovation, community, and artistic expression reflects her passion for creating meaningful work that inspires and connects people.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Charlotte
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to my passion for creativity, my willingness to take risks, and my commitment to bringing my ideas to life. I believe in taking action, learning from every experience, and embracing mistakes as opportunities for growth. Building meaningful relationships and surrounding myself with a supportive community have also played an important role in my journey, providing inspiration, encouragement, and collaboration. Staying curious, continuously learning, and remaining dedicated to my vision have allowed me to grow as a creative professional and entrepreneur while making a positive impact through my work.
02What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering this industry is to believe in themselves, take bold steps, and fully commit to their goals. Success comes from being willing to take risks, give your best effort, and invest yourself wholeheartedly in everything you do. Surround yourself with a strong and supportive community that encourages growth, provides guidance, and inspires you to keep moving forward. Embrace challenges, allow yourself to make mistakes, and view every experience as an opportunity to learn, improve, and continue growing both personally and professionally.
Join Influential Women and start making an impact. Register now.