1. What inspired you to start your own clothing brand, and what inspires you to keep going?

Before I started Lafayette 148, I worked in production for big brands like Liz Claiborne, Donna Karan, Escada, and Zegna. During my time there, I learned that growth can’t be about finding cheaper production – it’s about focusing on quality.

When I met Shun Yen Siu and Ida Siu, clothing manufacturers with a jacket factory in New York, we decided that we would transform a factory into a brand. By controlling our production, we could ensure superior quality. I am fortunate to have found great partners in the Sius and the ability to create beautiful products our customers love to wear. After 30 years, this is what keeps me going and excited to come to work each day.

2. How important were partnerships and mentor figures as you started and built your business?

Partnerships and mentors are hugely important to me. While there have been many along the way, my business partners, the Sius, have been the most instrumental in my business and life. When you start a business, there are ups and downs, and you want to know that your business partners are in it to win. Shen Yun has since passed away, and Ida continues to be my rock.

Emily Smith, my creative director, has also become one of my most important partnerships. When it comes to fashion, product is everything, so the relationship between me and the designer is very important.

3. What were the top lessons learned while growing and scaling the business?

My top lessons from growing and scaling the business are:

• Vision: There will always be many opinions, so you need to stay clear on your north star and stick to your vision.
• Culture: When I started Lafayette 148, I knew I wanted to build a different kind of company – one that values people and is rooted in kindness, intelligence, and integrity.
• Courage, perseverance, and resilience: Being an entrepreneur is not for everyone, and there are good and challenging times. Make sure you have the stomach to handle the worst of times, and always celebrate the wins.

4. How have you positioned the business – and yourself – to navigate market uncertainty?

In business and life, things happen. I’ve learned that the best way to navigate is to use the situation as an opportunity to pivot to your advantage. It’s not what life throws at you, but how you respond. In uncertain times like these, you must continue to move forward – cautiously – yet never lose sight of the end game. And for me that means a relentless focus on what’s important: people, customer, and product.

5. What advice would you give to your younger self?

The best advice I could give my younger self, in life and business, is to always play the long game. Nothing comes quickly or easily, so surround yourself with people who are smarter than you so you can learn. When life throws you a few curveballs, pick yourself up and keep moving forward.