Name: Rachel Harris
Age: 22
Job Title and Description: Owner/Creative Development for Fifty Over Five
College/Major: Bachelor of Fine Arts in Fashion Design
Website: www.fiftyoverfiveco.com
Instagram Handle: @Fiftyoverfive
What does your current job entail? Is there such a thing as a typical day?
Rachel Harris: I handle many aspects of the business and it requires me to experience different routines each day. Every week, I spend a couple of days overseeing development and testing new ideas at the Los Angeles factory. The rest of the week is normally spent in our downtown showroom where I create ideas, meet with my representative and manage my artists from all around the world. Any other time I have is dedicated to my personal art. As an artist, I have to keep my work fresh and my mind captivated.
What is the best part of your job?
RH: The people I work with and creating art. I am truly blessed to have the opportunity to work with such rad individuals. The artists, working in a USA-made factory, are amazing, and my team is passionate and unique. Everyone I work with brings a lot to the table and keeps me on my toes. I am able to make art, and that isn’t something a lot of artists can support themselves doing.
What was your first entry-level job in your field and how did you get it?
RH: My first job was an internship for J Brand Jeans, which quickly turned into a full-time job on their design team. Fashion is a great industry because there is always room for young talent looking to work hard.
What is one thing you wish you knew about your industry when you first started out that you know now?
RH: It’s less about your resume and more about whom you know and what you can bring to the table.
Who is one person who changed your professional life for the better?
RH: Ashley Haber. He is an extremely talented photographer and founder of many brands such as SpiritHoods and creative development for Wildfox. He influenced me to be an individual and an entrepreneur without fear.
What words of wisdom do you find most valuable?
RH: “If you are going to do something, do it well. And leave something witchy.” – Charles Manson
What has been the most surreal moment of your career thus far?
RH: The general response has been amazing. I am now able to work with artists that I have looked up to all my life. Musicians I have seen in [concert] are wearing my art, and stores I shop at are always contacting me! It is a surreal feeling that it has been less than a year.
What advice would you give to a 20-something with similar aspirations?
RH: As someone who is reserved, I learned quickly you have to be tough and put yourself out there, because no one is looking for you. Fashion is full of deadlines for trade shows, market weeks and seasons. Your co-workers can get intense and you have to be able to keep up and not take anything personally.
I have put in several hours and not one has gone to waste. It is important to see all aspects of your industry and network. Without networks, none of this would be possible. Be you, be authentic.