How to Break into Fashion: Designer Rachel Roy

Today the Fashion Bomb adds another superstar to its glittering roster of Breaking into Fashion alumni with exceedingly fabulous designer…

…Rachel Roy!

The Seaside, California native has been producing exquisite collections for years, and recently launched a diffusion line, Rachel Rachel Roy, for Macy’s. Chic, accomplished, and full of wisdom, she took a few moments to tell you aspiring designers how to break into the business.

Roy first knew she wanted to design at the young age of 8. She remembers, “I was back-to-school shopping and realized I hated the selection I had to choose from…I wanted to do something about it myself.” She became involved in fashion as a teen (her first job was in retail at age 14),  but she didn’t start designing until later.

She said, “I went to a Christian college where all my family members went, but it unfortunately did not offer design. Upon graduation I came to New York City to work as a stylist. I interned wherever I could and always surrounded myself with fashion. Finally, in 2006 I was able to launch my own collection.”

Rachel by Rachel Roy for Macy’s

Rachel Roy Spring 2009

When designing, the mother of two has many muses. “I am inspired by so many things: people who love design, those who wear clothing in distinctive fashions, bright colors, the ever-changing weather and the way the light changes with it, the multitude of cultures that co-exist in the world, women’s stories of strength in difficult times–and the list goes on.”

Aside from her designing acumen, Rachel Roy is a certified fashionista. To get a pulled together look, Rachel contends every girl should own, “A great flat, sexy yet strong heels, a cardigan that can double as a jacket, a perfectly worn-in brown leather belt, and the perfect trench.”

For future designers, she advises, “Intern, intern, intern at as many houses as possible… you will pick up something valuable wherever you are. Also, if you can’t balance the business side of the profession, you won’t be successful… business tools are imperative.”

In closing she says, “Keep trying for what you love. Never give up… success can come at any age. And most importantly, do not worry about failing…mistakes are a prerequisite for success.”

Amen!
Keep track of Rachel on her website www.rachelroy.com, join her Facebook group, or follow her on twitter at www.twitter.com/Rachel_Roy. Also, keep an eye peeled for her diffusion line, Rachel Rachel Roy, at a Macy’s near you.
Bisous!

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PS Rachel was one of our very first Designer Spotlights in 2007! Reminisce with a true throwback Bomb post here.