Her Story
About Pamela
I've been in fashion apparel and intimate apparel for about 35 years, and it's truly been in my blood since I was a child. As a young girl. watching my mom, who was a fashion plate, get ready for dinner out was an event. That's where I caught the love of fashion bug.. I shopped with her at dress boutiques, watched her carefully select the right dress with the right proportions in the right color.. I watched every move she made, quiet elegance but a vision in knowing what would look best on her svelte frame. The spark was lit and I knew I was destined for New York City. I attended the Fashion Institute of Technology which set the stage for walking into the industry with confidence and the know-how. The entire experience was hands-on, having the opportunity to engage with fashions top designers was priceless, understanding the smoke and mirrors of the business and learning it was a roll up sleeves business was so important. It grounds you in many ways. As I crafted my career path, I often remembered my mom in that dress shop, seamlessly, quietly navigating what she knew was perfect for her. I pressed forward in that same manner, knowing my path was the right one. I've been very lucky to not only focus on selling but also on product development, design, sourcing, merchandising, and costing. I've worked for great designer brands that gave me the opportunity to take on more, and I've truly been blessed because I've been able to jump from sourcing to selling to design to product development, exposing me to the varied challenges and skills required for all. Recently, within the last year, I secured a partnership with QVC, which was a career cornerstone. It is so difficult to catch their attention and recognize what a brand represents. But persistence paid off and the Gemsli Brand is now featured. It's very exciting ! I look forward to many more career advancements and cornerstones in the everchanging world of fashion !
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Pamela
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to staying focused, staying grounded and never saying never. There is always a way.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
Do not listen to the noise and negativity. Follow your inner compass and you will be fine.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
So many young women are disillusioned by the industry. It's not about what is seen on social media.. It has to be in your DNA, it has to be in your blood. Their expectation levels are so high that they're not understanding you need to really work the ropes. You will start at the bottom and work your way up. Keep your nose to the grindstone, stay focused, and make your decisions as to what you want to excel in as you are climbing that ladder. The reward come to you if you are persistent, curious and tenacious.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
The challenges are, and I think most industries currently are grappling with the day-to-day ups and downs. There can be layoffs, there can be switches in job function, you could be moved to a different division. So, you have to work fast, think quickly. You have to be very adept at change and making those changes without disruption. That's what makes it so fascinating to me, because you're never doing one thing all the time. It's constantly changing, as fashion does. Companies need to stay ahead of the competition, be able to say that it's one of the first to bring a new product to market. It requires agility, being aware of what's trending, keeping costs under control and delivering quality and sustainability in a timely manner.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Honesty, transparency and giving.
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