From Sole to Somm

Private Label & Fashion 2009–2012 Chapter 29

Core Value #2: Embrace and Drive Change

Here we go again.

Eileen wanted to focus on the Couture site, so they asked if I would also take on the Fashion area. That meant overseeing all Fashion items not considered Couture — Juniors, Contemporary Fashion, and Salon — plus continuing to run the Private Label area. With this change, I inherited the buyers from those fashion areas, and suddenly, my team grew a lot. I had some great fashion people being transferred over, Scott, Meghan, Jen, Alana, Kristin, Mica and others. The team was light a little from the lay-offs of 2008, so we hired a new guy named Avneet.

Had the “Fashion Team” added to my portfolio

On top of that, we were preparing for the MICAM trip, which now meant splitting my time between the Fashion Team and Private Label team. And if that wasn’t enough, we also had a trip to Kentucky planned, including the Kentucky Derby. Experiencing all the traditions of the Derby — including my first Mint Julep — was unforgettable.