WWD x FN x Beauty Inc 55 Women in Power 2025

The fifth annual Women in Power list — compiled by WWD, Footwear News and Beauty Inc — celebrates exceptional female leaders across fashion, beauty and retail. Though their paths differ,  each honoree shares defining strengths: a clear sense of self, conviction in their choices and the belief that true success comes from empowering others.

Tracy Anderson, CEO, founder and creator of the Tracy Anderson Method

With cult-followed workout classes, sustainable and luxurious equipment, chic activewear and high-profile clients like Gwyneth Paltrow, Jennifer Lopez and Kate Hudson, Tracy Anderson is one of the most powerful figures in boutique fitness.
 
“Power is the quiet resilience that transforms obstacles into artistry, the devotion to live the questions rather than grasp for answers, and the courage to grow into the fullness of your humanity,” she said. “It is reaching wide enough to embrace all people and the living world that sustains them, moving with a love so expansive it becomes both an offering and a responsibility.” 
 
For Anderson, who’s been in the industry for over 25 years, her success has been driven by the bespoke Tracy Anderson Method. Over the course of five years, Anderson studied how 150 women responded to certain exercises, which would ultimately inform the choreography-based method she uses today that changes weekly. Anderson’s leadership style has been rooted in jumping into the unknown. 
 
“Leadership begins in the unseen, rooted in moral imagination that reaches beyond the horizon of what can be counted, into the unknown territory of what can be created for the good of all. It’s the courage to know that you can’t change a culture before it is ready, but you know you have to try and transform its weaknesses,” she said. “It measures progress not simply in metrics, but in the quiet expansion of awareness, compassion and the collective feeling of knowing you’re participating in life-giving results.” 
 
She added: “Being a woman has taught me that power is not about control, but about creation. The ability to bring something into being that did not exist before. It is the same force that shapes life itself: patient, intuitive, and fiercely protective of what is sacred. One of society’s fatal flaws has been not honoring this in equity.”  — Emily Burns

Victoria Beckham, founder and creative director of her eponymous company

A fashion and makeup devotee — and a marketeer to her core — Victoria Beckham has never been afraid of hard work and can sometimes be spotted organizing her beauty counter display at Selfridges — and mingling with customers who follow her every move on Instagram.
 
Building her fashion and beauty brand has been a journey, but she has persisted. With investor David Belhassen of Neo Investment Partners at her side and a mentor in company chairman Ralph Toledano, the business is now profitable at EBITDA level, with sales growing in the high double-digits.
 
Bestsellers include handbags, belts, dresses, tailoring and denim. Fragrance, which launched in 2023, has exceeded expectations, while Victoria Beckham Beauty is one of the top-selling brands on the Selfridges beauty floor. 
 
Beckham’s approach to business has been consistent. She creates products that she wants to wear, or use, and stays close to her community. Customers, many of whom will have grown up watching and listening to the Spice Girls, have remained loyal, and appear to respond to her sense of humor and woman-to-woman conversations and events.
 
According to Beckham, power is “the ability to hold space for others, to admit when you’re wrong, and to grow without losing your sense of self. There’s a power in vulnerability, in presence, in not needing to be the loudest person in the room. And then of course there’s love, which is the most powerful thing of all.”
 
She said leadership means “creating an environment where creativity thrives and everyone feels part of the vision. It also means setting the tone by showing up every day, being passionate, and staying accountable. But ultimately, it’s all about having respect for my teams.”

Being a woman, she added, “has taught me that strength and softness aren’t opposites — in fact, they can, and should, coexist. I’ve found power in doing things my way: collaborative, instinctive, and unapologetically ambitious.” — Samantha Conti

Sarah Benady, CEO, Jacquemus

As the new chief executive officer of Jacquemus, one of the biggest breakout fashion brands of the last decade, Sarah Benady has a to-do list that probably would not fit inside one of the brand’s pint-sized Chiquito handbags. The French firm, fronted by designer Simon Porte Jacquemus, is on the cusp of an international retail expansion, and set to finally enter the beauty category with French giant L’Oréal as its long-term licensee — and new minority investor.

“Someone with a business mind, but also a product lover,” is how Jacquemus described his new partner in the business in a WWD interview earlier this year. “We had the same feeling and the same ambition for the brand, for where we want to go.…It’s about finding the right balance of development and protecting the brand.”

Freestanding boutiques in Los Angeles and Miami are among Benady’s headline projects in the near future, along with doubling down on products.

The executive made her public debut at the spring 2026 Jacquemus show last June, titled Le Paysan and paraded in the vast Orangerie building at the Palace of Versailles. The designer debuted a new top-handle handbag, Le Valerie, named after his late mother, and pastoral variations on espadrilles.

A rising star in the industry, Benady joined Jacquemus after nearly four years at the helm of Celine’s North American operations. Before that, she logged four years as North American president of French fashion chain Ba&sh. A graduate of French business school HEC, Benady started her career as a project manager at French department store Printemps, and she spent six years at French fashion chain The Kooples, first as international director and then president. —Miles Socha 

Elsa Berry, managing director, Vendôme Global Partners 

Elsa Berry has been a mover and shaker at investment banks large and small for decades and now works at her own firm as managing director of Vendôme Global Partners.
 
Working at the center of so many mergers and acquisitions has given her a close-up look at how fashion executives exercise power to build value.
 
“Power is the ability to drive meaningful change and achieve tangible outcomes,” Berry said. “It starts with a clear vision and is sustained by the courage, resilience, drive and discipline to execute that vision often against significant odds. Being powerful implies converting insight into action and inspiring others to pursue a common goal.”
 
But having power is just part of the corporate equation. “Leadership is the necessary complement to power,” she said. “It is about articulating a clear goal and aligning people around it and then enabling them to contribute their best thinking and talents to achieve it. Effective leadership balances listening with decisiveness, and empowerment with accountability.”
 
Berry’s approach is informed very much by her own experiences coming up in the rough and tumble of investment banking.
 
“Being a woman has shaped my leadership through agility, emotional intelligence and resilience,” she said. “I have led complex transactions and teams across borders, often as the only woman in the room, especially early in my career or when working on international transactions. I have never, however, tried to emulate men.
 
“Instead, I have leaned into the qualities that I believe women bring to leadership: the ability to read situations, listen deeply, negotiate with nuance, and lead with both strength and empathy. I know how to listen and ‘feel’ a situation which allows me to combine a softer, nurturing side with boldness, force and drive. I also know how to be humble — when justified or needed —  and to adjust to mistakes and then rebound.” — Evan Clark

Hali Borenstein, CEO of Reformation

Under the leadership of Hali Borenstein, the company has grown to more than 1,000 team members, over 50 retail locations and its international business has more than tripled. She has also overseen significant category expansion and product innovation during her tenure, adding shoes, bags, athleisure and a robust separates business. In addition, Borenstein has accelerated the brand’s progress toward its sustainability commitments, including climate-positive by 2025 and a new commitment to be fully circular by 2030.

Borenstein joined Reformation in 2014 as director of merchandising, armed with an undergraduate degree from Duke University and an MBA from Stanford Graduate School of Business. She was named president in December 2017 and CEO in June 2020.

Asked about her philosophy and values when it comes to leadership, she said, “At the simplest level, my job as CEO is to establish a clear vision, surround myself with smart people, and give those people the space and support they need to do great work. 

“A lot of people confuse strong leadership with having all the right answers. But it’s much more important to focus on listening and asking the right questions. Directness, follow-through and integrity are qualities I value most in myself and others — say what you mean, do what you say. A consistent culture of curiosity, accountability and honesty helps create a safe space for people to take risks, grow and learn.”

She said that she’s always viewed being a woman as a strength as opposed to something she needed to overcome or explain. “Whether I’m the only woman in the room or one of many, it’s given me a different perspective and ability to connect with people. I don’t lead like a ‘female leader,’ I just lead like myself. And so far that has been more than enough.” — Lisa Lockwood

Cathrin Bowtell, CEO, Seed

Cathrin Bowtell held a number of roles at microbial sciences company Seed before being recently appointed chief executive officer. Previously she was the chief commercial officer and president where, alongside Seed cofounders Ara Katz and Raja Dhir, she has been building the company’s strategy.

To date, Seed has become synonymous with the microbiome, particularly with its bestselling DS-01. Once direct-to-consumer, the brand recently became more widely available through retailers like Sprouts, Target and Amazon. At the time of the retail launch, sources close to the brand confirmed Seed had exceeded $200 million in revenue, growing 500 percent over the last three years.

When it comes to leading, Bowtell’s approach has always centered around having a strong vision and even stronger team.

“Set the vision and then create the conditions for the team to bring it to life. Leadership is equal parts strategy and enablement. Live in the future and chart a bold, ambitious roadmap toward transformational ideas, but balance that with knowing when to get out of the way,” she said. “Surround yourself only with extraordinary minds: people who are deeply curious and creative, who bring complementary expertise to your own, and who share the same bias toward action, impact, and outcomes.”

From school to her career, Bowtell said her success has always been driven by her ability to advocate for herself.

“I built my career in competitive meritocracies. From business school to CPG, management consulting, and eventually the C-suites of hyper-growth start-ups, I frequently had the experience of being outnumbered,” she said. “That experience — of being one of the only women in the room — became a personal forcing function. It pushed me to engage disproportionately, to speak up even when I was junior, to raise my hand, challenge ideas (with facts), and advocate for perspectives that might otherwise go unheard.  I advocated for my perspective, because it was very clear to me that no one else in the room would or could.” — Emily Burns

Bobbi Brown, founder, Jones Road, Bobbi Brown Cosmetics

Bobbi Brown is no stranger to all things tiny but mighty.

Having founded her namesake brand as a working makeup artist, and subsequently selling it to the Estée Lauder Cos. in 1995, the entrepreneur’s career has since taken her to write books, found a hotel in Montclair, N.J., and most recently, take another stab at indie beauty with the launch of Jones Road five years ago.
 
“Confidence is powerful, and I’ve developed it and earned it over time. I also find power in simply knowing that whatever is thrown my way, I can do it,” Brown said. “I may not know how to do something, but there’s great strength in knowing that you are resourceful enough to just do the work and figure it out.”
 
That bleeds into her leadership style. Currently, at Jones Road, she’s named her son Cody Plofker the brand’s chief executive officer, and Chrissy DeVries its chief operating officer. A proper C-suite was in order for the brand, which was said to surpass $160 million in revenue in 2024.
 
“I believe a big part of leadership is in the actions you take versus what you say. Lead by example. Encourage creativity. Show what it means to be tenacious and dedicated,” Brown said of how she manages her burgeoning team. “If you model that, it makes everyone around you believe that nothing is impossible. I also think leadership is having the courage to admit when you don’t understand something. It creates a culture of curiosity in your team.”
 
Brown acknowledged that female founders have a different set of headwinds but doesn’t find herself confined to that archetype. “I typically don’t label myself a female founder — I’m a founder and entrepreneur who happens to be a woman,” she said, positing that it comes with advantages, too. “For example, we are simply better multitaskers, and we tend to be more empathetic to the people around us. Being nice is never a weakness. Kindness is part of the secret sauce.” — James Manso

Caroline Brown, global brand president, The North Face

Caroline Brown has both the business and fashion chops to run a big international brand like The North Face.
 
Before joining the VF Corp. division, Brown was a managing director at Closed Loop Partners, a New York-based investment firm and innovation center that searches for sustainable solutions within the apparel sector. Before that, she was CEO of Donna Karan International and DKNY, at that time divisions of LVMH, as well as president of Carolina Herrera and U.S. CEO for Akris.
 
Her journey at VF started on the board where she served as a director before being tapped to take on the role of global brand president of The North Face in June of 2024. VF chief Bracken Darrell cited Brown’s “intense focus on brand building, product design, consumer insight and innovation” when handing her the reins.
 
Her role puts her into a position of power, a word that she believes can be “polarizing in the context of leadership — leadership is definitely not about control. It’s much more about setting teams up for success and then being comfortable letting go, especially when operating a global business in today’s fast-paced world. I often feel that the most powerful person in the room is the one with humility, self-awareness and genuine appreciation for the work of those around them. Powerful people have the confidence to listen, to pivot and learn from mistakes and to have a growth mindset, knowing there is always more to learn.”
 
Brown said she’s often asked how being a woman has impacted her leadership style. She laughs that off, saying she hopes that her success can empower others. “I know there is a dialogue about women not helping other women grow in their careers, but I have not found this to be true in my own experience. It would be great to see more women in leadership roles across all industries. [That] will inspire more young women to become leaders themselves. We need to do better there.” — Jean E. Palmieri

Laura Burdese, deputy CEO, Bulgari 

“I believe leadership is fundamentally people-centered: it starts with listening, igniting passion, and empowering teams to thrive. True excellence emerges when talent meets purpose, fueled by a shared commitment to meaningful goals,” explained Laura Burdese on her philosophy when it comes to leadership.

A bubbly personality and sparkling energy coupled with sharp business acumen define Burdese, who makes a case that there are too few women executives sitting at the top of international luxury companies. She was promoted to her current post — a newly created position at the LVMH-owned brand where she oversees the jewelry, watches, perfumes and leather goods business — after playing a key role in Bulgari’s elevation strategy since her arrival in 2022 as vice president of marketing and communication.

She joined LVMH in 2016 as president and CEO of Acqua di Parma, where she proved her skills by revisiting the brand equity to make it attractive for the modern consumer and revamped the appeal of its products across all touch points.

Previously, Burdese held various leadership roles in Swatch Group — most recently as president and CEO of Calvin Klein Watch and Jewelry Co. Ltd. — Beiersdorf and L’Oréal.

Burdese makes a case that there are too few women executives sitting at the top of international luxury companies and that women bring a unique depth of perspective that is essential to leading with purpose. “Power doesn’t need to be loud to be felt. There is profound strength in listening, in making space for others, and in leading not with ego but with clarity, intention and care. When we create space for mutual encouragement and shared growth, something truly generative happens — for individuals, for teams, and for the culture we’re part of.” — Sandra Salibian

Sarah Burton, creative director, Givenchy

As one of fashion’s most meticulous, hands-on designers, Sarah Burton’s most important accessories are probably the scissors she keeps in her back pocket, and the straight pins forever sheltered in her sweater. The British designer was named Givenchy’s creative director last year, becoming the French house’s eighth designer, and its second female couturier.

She nailed her debut with an exhilarating display of dramatic hourglass coats and jackets, geometric baby dolls and austere gowns whereby a triangle or square of leather descends from the throat. “The clothes were superb, peerlessly realized and immediately desirable; sometimes young and zesty, but most often the pinnacle of adult sophistication,” WWD opined at the time.

A fastidious fashion technician prized for dramatic tailoring and intricate, yet empowering dresses, Burton learned how to cut, spin narratives and stoke desire at the elbow of fashion great Lee Alexander McQueen. Born in Macclesfield, England, and educated in Manchester, Burton studied print fashion at the Central Saint Martins College of Art and Design in London in the late 1990s, and landed at McQueen after one of her instructors, Simon Ungless, introduced her to the incendiary designer in 1996. She became his design assistant, was promoted in 2000 to head of womenswear and became creative director of the house following his death in 2010, adding a feminine hand to McQueen’s hard-edged aesthetic.

A reserved woman who prefers to toil in the workrooms rather than seek attention for herself, Burton has long been viewed as a bona fide couturier in the vein of Hubert de Givenchy, experimenting with cuts, volumes and draping to invent new shapes and attitudes.

So far, she’s put women at the center of her Givenchy, believing that womanhood means appreciating “the value of trusting your instincts of collaboration, of listening and of empathy.

“For me, good leadership means keeping a clear focus on the big picture, while building a work culture of respect and collaboration where creativity and excellence will flourish,” she added. — Miles Socha

Christine Chang, cofounder and co-CEO, Glow Recipe

Glow Recipe has built its name and a business — clocking $300 million in retail sales in 2023 – off of clinically backed formulas bolstered by food ingredients. But for Christine Chang, the secret sauce isn’t just in product efficacy or buzz, it’s in people.
 
“I’ve seen many brilliant, talented women hold back because they felt they weren’t fully ready or ‘qualified’ yet,” Chang said. “My own experience taught me that leadership is not about showing up perfect, it’s about showing up willing. Willing to learn, to try, to fail and to try again. I want to normalize that growth happening out in the open.”
 
Chang previously worked with Sarah Lee, Glow Recipe’s cofounder and co-CEO, at L’Oréal. The brand debuted in 2014 and has expanded perennially viral bestsellers into major pillars of its business: case in point, Watermelon Glow now spans toners, treatments and makeup hybrids. More nascent categories, like the brand’s new bingsoo-inspired Glass Balm, mark deepening territory in both tinted skin care and lip balms.
 
“I believe real power lives in consistent momentum, the kind that turns from turning an idea that once felt impossible into something that touches lives far beyond your own,” Chang said. “It’s not about being the loudest in the room, but about moving with clarity and conviction towards a vision you believe in, even when the path isn’t certain.”
 
That drives the brand’s resonance with its devotees. Glass Balm, for example, not only pays homage to Chang and Lee’s Korean heritage but broadened the brand’s global appeal and offered a clinically backed formula in tandem with community connectivity.
 
“What stays with me most are the moments when that energy connects to others: when a teammate takes a bold step because they feel supported, when our community feels seen through what we create, or when we get to stand beside nonprofit partners doing extraordinary, values-driven work,” Chang said. “Watching that spark spread, that shared sense of courage and possibility, feels more powerful than any individual milestone ever could.” —  James Manso

Hannah Colman, CEO of Jimmy Choo

With two women at the helm — Hannah Colman and Sandra Choi, cofounder and creative director — Jimmy Choo is the embodiment of female empowerment. The pair have worked together for decades, and well before current owners Capri Holdings purchased the brand in 2017.

Colman joined Jimmy Choo in 1996, and was one of the company’s first employees, serving as store manager of the first Jimmy Choo boutique on Motcomb Street in London’s Belgravia neighborhood.

She was appointed CEO in 2020, taking up the role vacated by Pierre Denis earlier that year, and reports to John D. Idol, chairman and CEO of Jimmy Choo’s parent company Capri Holdings.

Before taking the top job, she served as president EMEA and global e-commerce and worked as interim CEO immediately after Denis’ departure.

Under Capri’s ownership, Colman and Choi have worked closely to build momentum at Jimmy Choo, dressing celebrities on- and off-screen; adding variety to the footwear mix, and building up the handbag category, which now accounts for a large part of sales.

Colman said she’s proud to be part of a generation of women “who are redefining what leadership looks like, who understand that the true power lies in lifting others, and that there is space for kindness and vulnerability. At Jimmy Choo I have been lucky to work with many inspiring women over the past 28 years including Sandra. It’s a partnership.”

To her, leadership is about listening. “Jimmy Choo was built by people, by our teams, our clients, and our partners. Giving clear direction and empowering teams to succeed is key. I believe in collaboration, nurturing talent and creating a culture where everyone has a voice.”

Power, she added, comes from integrity “and the ability to inspire and lift others while staying true to your values, while the power of collaboration drives success and change. Finally, there is the power of trust, trusting your team to execute the brand vision,” she said. — Samantha Conti

Carolina Cucinelli, vice president and co-creative director, Brunello Cucinelli

Appointed vice president of the Brunello Cucinelli company in 2024, Carolina Cucinelli is also co-creative director with her father, the founder of the namesake company, and a member of the board.

In March 2024, she was granted powers in the areas of product, image and communication, and is key in nurturing relations with artisans and collaborators.

Born in Perugia on Feb. 23, 1991, Cucinelli is the second-born daughter of Federica and Brunello Cucinelli.

After graduating from high school with an artistic diploma in Fashion and Costume, in 2010 she joined the family enterprise. She initially worked as an assistant in the women’s style office and then took on the role of head of the accessories division department.

She later made a fundamental contribution to the realization of the digital project, “Artigiani umanisti del web [humanistic artisans of the web]” resulting in the online boutique and the redesigned company website.

Cucinelli supervises the company’s image and communication, especially through social platforms, and has greatly contributed to reach out to the younger generations.

She has also gradually become interested in the company’s business strategy in the commercial sphere and its development, both wholesale and retail, developing eyewear and fragrances with, respectively Oliver Peoples, Luxottica and Euroitalia.

She has been key in building and strengthening the relations with the Cucinelli community, including Hollywood A-listers and celebrities from Oprah Winfrey and Sharon Stone to Kevin Costner and Patrick Dempsey, to name a few.

With her sister Camilla, she has been actively promoting social and cultural activities in the Solomeo hamlet, home of the brand, hosting performance at the Cucinelli Theater and organizing open-air cinema in the summer at the Foro delle Arti in Solomeo. — Luisa Zargani

Gaëlle Drevet, founder of The Frankie Shop

Founder of the OG Instagram-favorite brand The Frankie Shop, Gaëlle Drevet knows a thing or two about embracing social media and being open to new ideas.

“Innovation and adaptability are key to navigating a rapidly changing world. You also need grit and courage to take risks, make bold moves, and step out of your comfort zone, but more importantly, all these attributes become easier if you have a passion for what you do; it will inspire and fuel energy for you and your team, and it should motivate others to achieve great things.”

A French native who began her career as a journalist in New York and London, Drevet hopped onto the fashion scene in 2015 with a multibrand store in the Lower East Side carrying a highly edited mix of emerging and established brands that melded French insouciance with New York City edge. She later founded her own clothing brand under the same name in 2016 and quickly established a loyal following of editors and influencers who relied on The Frankie Shop for their seasonal boxy blazers, menswear trousers and oversized trenchcoats.

In 2022, Drevet launched men’s and unisex, and held pop-ups in Los Angeles and Abu Dhabi, expanding her reach globally. In addition to its retail stores in Paris and New York, Drevet plans for a store in London next year. — Kathy G. Lee

Amber English, president, digital & online, the Americas, the Estée Lauder Cos.

Amber English oversees the continued acceleration of the Estée Lauder Cos. digital-first transformation and omni-capabilities for the Americas.
 
Most recently, she played an instrumental role in leading its brand launches in the U.S. Amazon Premium Beauty store. So far, the move to Amazon is proving successful with Clinique, Bumble and bumble, and Too Faced among the brands now on the platform. 
 
In particular, her knowledge of Amazon is key, having spent 14 years there. During her time at Amazon, she served in various roles with increasing responsibility across Amazon Fashion, Beauty, and Consumables. Prior to Amazon, she worked at Macy’s and Gap Inc. in merchandising roles.
 
“I see leadership as a responsibility, not a title. It starts with listening — really listening — and staying curious. I ask questions, even when I think I know the answer, and I surround myself with people who are smarter than me and who aren’t afraid to challenge the status quo. I value honesty over comfort. I believe in building tables, not guarding doors, and showing up with clarity, humility and heart,” she said.
 
For English, being a woman has taught her to trust her instincts. “There’s a kind of knowing we carry that doesn’t always show up in the data, but it’s just as real. I’ve learned to lead in spaces where I wasn’t always expected, and to do it in my own way — with clarity, adaptability, and a strong sense of self.” — Kathryn Hopkins
 
Emily Essner, president and chief commercial officer of Saks Global

“I believe power lies in conviction — having a distinct point of view and the confidence to stand by it, even when it challenges popular opinion,” said Emily Essner, president and chief commercial officer of Saks Global.
 
For Essner, it’s been a steady, 14-year rise up the retail corporate ladder. She joined Saks Fifth Avenue as director of corporate strategy in 2011, rose to VP of corporate strategy three years later, worked for Hudson’s Bay for a while before returning to Saks in marketing roles and attaining the title of chief marketing officer in 2020.
 
Last December, when Saks purchased the Neiman Marcus Group, Essner was promoted to her current role as president and chief commercial officer of Saks Global. It’s a huge assignment in which she oversees the merchandising, marketing, commercial analytics and e-commerce for Saks and Neiman Marcus stores and websites. In June, Essner’s role got even bigger, when store experience became part of the Saks Global commercial organization, which she leads.
 
Before entering the male-dominated retail world, Essner was a senior associate at McKinsey & Co. “I attended a women’s college which gave me the unique experience of being in an environment where gender wasn’t a defining factor,” Essner told WWD. “Because of this, I don’t often frame my leadership mentality through the lens of being a woman, but I am aware of the realities of sometimes being one of the few women in the room. I believe that people, myself included, are complex and our perspectives are shaped by a multitude of identities and experiences. It’s this complexity that informs how we build trust and foster collaboration to drive meaningful results.”
 
Essner, who reports to Marc Metrick, CEO of Saks Global, is in a crucial role requiring strong leadership and working doubly hard in light of the challenges Saks Global faces as it navigates a luxury market that has turned soft. “Leadership is about vision, connection and fostering a shared purpose among your team,” she said. “It’s a leader’s responsibility to help their teams understand where they are going and how their individual contributions ladder up to a shared goal.” — David Moin

Tina Fair, president, L’Oréal North America consumer products division

Though she was appointed president of L’Oréal’s North America consumer products division in 2025, Tina Fair has been driving growth at the company for far longer than that. 
 
Through her 17-year tenure at the company — which ranks as the world’s largest beauty manufacturer — Fair has held senior marketing and leadership roles at Garnier, Maybelline New York and SkinCeuticals before taking up her current post overseeing the conglomerate’s consumer products division. 
 
Her remit is one that requires not just range, but agility and empathy. 
 
“My approach to leadership is grounded in collaboration, curiosity and courage,” said Fair. “I invite diverse perspectives, leave space for experimentation and stay anchored in our core mission. This mindset is especially important in today’s ever-changing environment; things don’t always go as planned, so it’s essential to stay open to feedback and to continuously learn.” 
 
Importantly, she said, this approach acknowledges “strength in empathy, power in collaboration and value in creating space for others to lead.”
 
“Power, to me, is the ability to create a positive impact that leaves people and systems better than you found them — when you lead this way, you don’t just build a successful business, you create a culture where people are inspired and motivated to bring their best. That’s how you unlock bold ideas and achieve results that are sustainable and meaningful,” Fair said. — Noor Lobad
 
Danielle Frankel Hirsch, founder and creative director of Danielle Frankel

Danielle Frankel Hirsch is one of the leading names in modern bridal fashion. Since founding her namesake label in 2017, she has established her brand with modern and avant-garde wedding designs with intriguing fabric innovation and unexpected details.
 
Frankel Hirsch said she believes “an individual point of view that is communicated with persuasion, while maintaining kindness and authenticity,” is powerful and that “strong leadership requires the ability to make decisions quickly, adapt as needed, and continue moving forward. It is important to consider other people’s point of view as part of the process, without letting outside perspective delay important decision making.”
 
Her designs evoke the high fashion sensibility of runway collections and became a go-to for style insiders and celebrities alike, including Julia Garner, Alex Cooper, Naomi Biden, Alexandra Daddario, Zoe Kravitz and more. She became the first bridal designer to garner accolades from the Council of Fashion Designers of America in 2019 and expanded her New York City-based business with additional, artisanal ready-to-wear, a new footwear category and opened the doors to her first boutique in Los Angeles in 2025. With each collection, Frankel Hirsch continues to expand what it means to be a modern bride and groom through the power of thoughtful fashion.
 
“I love being a woman, embracing all the obstacles that face us such as balancing motherhood with owning a business. As a creative, I thrive on the challenge of navigating a path that isn’t immediately obvious. Femininity and strength are often perceived as needing to be mutually exclusive, but it’s our job as leading women to display the overlaps in the two,” she said. — Emily Mercer

Jenny Freshwater, vice president of Amazon Fashion & Fitness

Since Nov. 2023, Jenny Freshwater has been leading the juggernaut’s expansive portfolio across apparel, shoes, jewelry, sports and outdoors, and Luxury Stores, as well as overseeing subsidiaries Shopbop and Zappos. Earlier, as Amazon’s vice president of traffic and marketing technology, she drove major retail moments including Prime Day, Black Friday and Cyber Monday.

“To me true power doesn’t come from control — it comes from the ability to inspire, influence, and unite people around a clear and compelling vision. In my role at Amazon, I strive to lead with integrity, listen with intention, and elevate others so that a broad range of diverse voices are heard and valued,” she said.

She said she believes great leadership starts with building a culture where diverse perspectives aren’t just welcomed — they’re expected. “I’m committed to fostering an environment where innovation can thrive and everyone has a seat at the table. To me, strong leadership means asking thoughtful questions, showing up with consistency, and leading with empathy, accountability and a bias for action. People do their best work when they feel seen, supported, challenged and empowered to grow.”

As for how being a woman shaped her view on power and leadership, Freshwater said, “Over the past 15 years at Amazon, I’ve embraced a range of roles — constantly seeking out new challenges and advocating for growth opportunities. That journey has deepened my appreciation for the importance of representation and the need to redefine leadership in more inclusive and authentic ways. I lead with the conviction that bringing your whole self to the table is a strength, not a liability — and I’m committed to creating space for others to do the same.” — Lisa Lockwood

Noella Gabriel, global president and cofounder, Elemis

Noella Gabriel may be an aromatherapist and beauty therapist by training, but she always had a knack for retail. This first came apparent when she opened a health food store in her native Ireland at the tender age of 20. 

Later, she teamed with Sean Harrington, Linda Steiner, and Oriele Frank to launch Elemis spa and retail onboard cruise ships in 1994.

The group went public through an IPO as Steiner Leisure Ltd. in 1996 and eventually went private almost 20 years later when L Catterton acquired Steiner Leisure for about $925 million in 2015. Four years later it changed hands again when L’Occitane International SA bought the British premium skin care and wellness brand for $900 million.

Since then, the brand has been focused on expanding the business internationally, launching in Sephora U.S. 

“It takes the courage to leave your comfort zone and trust your intuition. Leadership is about enabling others, embracing change, and staying flexible in a world that never stands still,” she said of her philosophy and values when it comes to leadership.

On how being a woman has shaped her view on power and leadership, she added: “Being a woman has shown me that leadership isn’t about being the loudest, it’s about nurturing others, speaking truth with empathy, and trusting your intuition. Power lies in flexibility, authenticity, and realizing that enabling people often makes the most impact.” — Kathryn Hopkins

Silvia Galfo, president of L’Oréal Luxe, North America

Silvia Galfo describes herself as a “glass-half-full” kind of leader. 
 
And as president of L’Oréal’s Luxe division, which includes several of designer beauty’s most prominent brands from Prada to Valentino Beauty to Miu Miu, she indeed has much to feel optimistic about. 
 
“I firmly believe in pushing through challenges — there is always a solution to any problem,” said Galfo, who took up her current post after more than two decades at L’Oréal, which included stints as the Luxe division’s chief growth officer; general manager of Armani Beauty and senior vice president of marketing at Lancôme.
 
“My leadership philosophy is built on entrepreneurship, innovation, passion and excellence,” Galfo said. “It’s about constantly questioning the status quo and daring to imagine what’s next.”
 
As part of this ethos, said the executive, it’s essential to “foster a culture of ‘test and learn’ — where failing is not just accepted, but seen as an integral part of the learning curve, because every experience is a valuable opportunity for growth.”
 
This focus on innovation and creativity has been key to success — in both brand and leadership — amid an increasingly unpredictable market and economic backdrop. 
 
“True effectiveness comes not from conforming to a singular mold, but from harnessing one’s authentic self,” Galfo said. “This conviction has empowered me to look beyond conventional ideas of what a leader or a female leader ‘should be,’ instead focusing on my unique strengths and integrating them into an approach that genuinely reflects who I am.” — Noor Lobad

Mary Carmen Gasco-Buisson, CEO Unilever Prestige 

It’s not every day that science brains take up management positions at FMCG giants, which means that Mary Carmen Gasco-Buisson, who rejoined Unilever last year as head of its high-profile prestige division, is a rarity.

The enthusiastic, high-energy executive has a degree in chemical engineering from Cornell University, and more than two decades of experience working in beauty, prestige and premium markets including at Unilever, earlier in her career, Procter & Gamble, and the jeweler Pandora.

She’ll need to press that marketing, management — and mathematical — experience into action as Unilever puts an even bigger spotlight on its beauty and wellness brands.

During the company’s first-half results in July, Unilever’s new CEO Fernando Fernandez said the company’s priorities are “more beauty, well-being and personal care,” and a sharper focus on premium segments.

Gasco-Buisson said her leadership philosophy is to lead “with both head and heart,” focusing on results while nurturing personal growth.

“I value authenticity, courage, ambition, hard work, respect, and being of service. I believe performance and culture go hand in hand: empowered teams create lasting impact. There’s nothing more rewarding than seeing someone reach their full potential. This enduring impact on performance and people is the legacy I strive for. The best results come from empowered people, not at their expense. When performance and humanity go hand-in-hand, leadership creates meaningful, lasting value,” she said.

She believes that power “is the ability to drive change and unlock potential in ideas, businesses, and people. Real power isn’t about control or titles; it’s about leading with authenticity, clarity, and positive intent, inspiring others to follow. I believe in power that listens, learns continuously, and builds win-win situations. It’s not about being the loudest voice but unlocking the most potential.” — Samantha Conti

Coco Gauff, professional tennis player

All eyes are on 21-year-old Coco Gauff, and for good reason. The American tennis phenomenon, who won the French Open in June, has been building her prowess on court and raising her voice about critical issues impacting Gen Z. 

“At the end of the day, it comes down to the youth and the community being outspoken,” Gauff said during a press conference at the Italian Open in 2024. “So I encourage everyone to vote and use your voice regardless of who you vote for. There’s no point in complaining [about] the political climate of the world if you don’t exercise your right to vote.”

When it comes to fashion, Gauff is constantly upping her game, most notably through her partnership with New Balance. The athletic brand signed Gauff back in 2018, and since then, she’s become one of the most important athletes on its brand roster. 

As the face of the New Balance x Miu Miu collaboration, Gauff has generated attention, both on and off court. For three of her tournaments this summer, the athlete paired pieces from the apparel collection, with a cobranded iteration of her CG2 signature sneaker. —Katie Abel

Olympia Gayot, creative director, women’s and kids, J.Crew

Olympia Gayot, the creative director of J.Crew since late 2020, has been instrumental in the resurgence of J.Crew. Gayot first worked at the brand from 2010 to 2017 as a womenswear design director under the former executive creative director and brand president Jenna Lyons. But she’s been taking J.Crew on a different style journey, bringing a strong feminine touch, designs and colors inspired by nature, and creating clothes that feel comfortable. She wants women to feel beautiful, creative and confident.

“I’ve been lucky to have many strong, inspiring women as role models throughout my life, from my mother, to teachers, to my current CEO at J.Crew, and my incredible network of female friends who are running their own companies,” Gayot said. “These women lead with such grace and integrity. They’re a constant reminder of the incredible value women bring, and it’s a privilege to witness their leadership and learn from them.”

An avid Instagrammer, Gayot’s personal style seems elegant and relaxed. She is skilled in fashion design, fashion illustration, print design, textile development and store design. She has a bachelor of fine arts degree from the School of Visual Arts in New York City.

Gayot has been a willing collaborator with designers and others on capsule collections such as with Christopher John Rogers and Maryam Nassir Zadeh. For J.Crew’s SoHo flagship, opened a year ago, Gayot collaborated with Rex Lalire of LMA Architecture, creative and furniture adviser Michael Bargo and her father, David Bermann, who works in wood finishings, on a custom wood stain with a wax coating, made to stand the test of time. 

Gayot has been a key player in restoring a level of quality to the collection and developing a fresh look to the brand, a balance that’s cool and modern while sustaining the heritage and classic American appeal. What it all boils down to is restoring the public’s trust in the brand and renewing its distinctive appeal, which has apparently been accomplished.

“Being a leader means inspiring your team and making them excited to come to work each day and feel positive, motivated and proud of what they do,” Gayot said. “Someone who empowers and elevates the people around them and is kind, grounded and humble, but also confident and in control and doesn’t take anything for granted and leads with both heart and clarity. It’s also about making sure everyone stays energized and engaged and can continue to grow. In this industry, you have to stay open to change — you can’t afford to get stuck in your ways. Thinking outside the box isn’t just encouraged, it’s essential to how we evolve and stay relevant.” — David Moin

Nancy Green, CEO, Beyond Yoga

Nancy Green, who helped build up Athleta at Gap Inc. and is now pushing Beyond Yoga up the growth curve as CEO, knows where her power comes from — and knows that exercising that power is also not something that exists in a vacuum. 
 
“Powerful is knowing who you are and drawing strength from within, not from titles or external validation,” Green said. “It’s the confidence that you can make an impact. To be powerful is to inspire others and to catalyze people toward an idea. It’s quiet sometimes but always intentional.”
 
Her take on leadership is centered very much on the people she leads.
 
“I believe in surrounding myself with talented individuals who care as much about the team as they do about the work,” she said. “As a leader, you need to take care of your team, partner with them, listen, challenge them, mentor and champion their ideas and impact. Staying curious and adaptable helps you stay close to what’s relevant, connect the dots and uncover white space opportunities.”
 
It’s a work philosophy that is very much informed by Green’s home life. 
 
“Becoming a mother many years ago was a profound moment in my career,” she said. “I was encouraged by two very impactful female mentors, [former Charlotte Russe CEO] Jenny Ming and [former Gap and Ann Taylor executive] Patti De Rosa, who were also mothers, to continue growing my career while raising children. At the time, I didn’t think I could do both successfully. I couldn’t yet see that potential in myself but they did.
 
“I took their advice, and through that experience, I learned one of the most important things you can do as a leader: recognize the potential in others and nurture it. It’s a leadership quality that requires both softness and strength.” — Evan Clark

Gigi Hadid, model and founder and creative director of Guest in Residence

Gigi Hadid is one of the biggest names in modeling. She’s also the founder and creative director of cozy cashmere brand Guest in Residence, a fashion tastemaker, and an on-the-go-mother juggling it all.

In addition to walking the global fashion weeks, serving as the face of luxury fashion and beauty campaigns including Havaianas, Miu Miu and Rabanne Parfums, to name a few, collaborating with the likes of Frankies Bikinis and Tommy Hilfiger, and gracing magazine covers, Hadid has been hard at work on Guest in Residence since its 2022 launch. 

In 2023, Hadid opened the doors to her first flagship on New York’s downtown Bond Street and expanded its retail footprint in Los Angeles in 2024. Guest in Residence has also collaborated with the likes of LuisaViaRoma, Caviar Kaspia, MadHappy and Moon Boot, and expanded its offering with seasonal collections and exclusive drops. 

Last year, a representative for the brand told WWD that Guest in Residence’s revenue was up 100 percent from the year prior, with direct sales through stores and online accounting for half its business and wholesale consisting of the other half. — Emily Mercer

Sheila Harrington, global CEO of Urban Outfitters and Free People Groups 

Sheila Harrington has a long, distinguished history with the Urban Outfitters and Free People Groups.

Harrington joined Free People in 2002 to help launch its first store and was responsible for merchant and product development, proving instrumental in the creation and growth of new businesses including intimates, shoes, FP Movement, Free-est and We the Free, in addition to the core assortment of the brand. 

“There’s nothing more powerful than talented expertise working towards a common goal,” said Harrington, adding that teamwork along with creativity is extremely powerful. “Albert Einstein said, ‘Creativity is intelligence having fun,’ and I could not agree more.”

Harrington increased the buying and planning organization of Free People and developed the visual merchandising team. She oversaw the launch of FP Movement in 2014 and launched its first stand-alone store in 2020. In 2016, she became president of Free People and then opened the first Free People store in Europe in 2017. In 2020, she was named CEO of Free People Group, and in 2021 she was given additional responsibility as global CEO of Urban Outfitters. 

When it comes to leadership, Harrington said, “Being an authentic leader, leading with integrity, and building strong trusting relationships is important to me. Leadership, I believe, is ultimately about harnessing teamwork and successfully listening to both our customer and people to align on short-and-long-term goals.”  — Lisa Lockwood

Rachel Kibbe, founder and CEO of Circular Services Group and American Circular Textiles

Rachel Kibbe credits a childhood dirt-biking for her lifelong fascination with landfills. As the founder and CEO of both the Circular Services Group, a New York-based strategic advisory firm, and American Circular Textiles, a national coalition that lobbies for sustainable textile policies, her mission is to keep clothing from ending up in them.
 
Kibbe is adept in the art of soft power, rallying the likes of H&M Group, ThredUp, Reformation, USAgain and Vestiaire Collective to campaign for textile resale, reuse and recycling in the halls of Capitol Hill. She helped develop the first federal textile reuse and recycling provisions through the bipartisan Americas Act, which earmarks an unprecedented $14 billion in funding and incentives for circular innovations in apparel, footwear, accessories and home textiles. In April, American Circular Textiles released a first-of-its-kind national blueprint for effective extended producer responsibility for textiles that can bolster U.S. manufacturing and scale domestic reuse and recycling infrastructure. She continues to lean into what she calls “proactive advocacy” by championing smarter legislation in an increasingly complex regulatory landscape.
 
“Power is the ability to influence systems so they work better for the future,” she said. “It takes both a respect for the present and the ability to negotiate with it in order to transform. Convincing people, businesses and stakeholders that change is inevitable requires deep self-belief and the skill to bring others along.”
 
Being a woman in leadership — and in politics — isn’t easy, Kibbe admitted. At the same time, being aware of how the odds are often stacked against her gender has taught her to lead with resilience and strategy, and to recognize that because rules weren’t made for women, they must create their own. Endurance, she said, is essential when you’re striving for maximum progress in an uncertain environment.
 
“I maintain a strong vision while staying grounded and strive to surround myself with people who are smarter than, and know more than me, and create conditions for my team to perform at their best,” Kibbe said. “The key, however, is an unreasonable comfort with risk and an acceptance that leadership in systems change can feel impossible. You have to ignore that feeling at all costs, because you have to also know you are right.” — Jasmin Malik Chua

Elin Kling, cofounder, Toteme

Toteme has built a fruitful business and a cult following on the back of Stockholm minimalism.
 
Husband-and-wife Elin Kling and Karl Lindman, cofounders of the brand, have opened more than 10 stores internationally, from New York City, Hangzhou to London, where they’re plotting to open a second store later this year.
 
Kling applies the same philosophy to her working life as she does when she’s creating pieces for Toteme.
 
“Leading fully as yourself — with focus, honesty and grace — is a quiet kind of power,” she said in an interview.
 
“Leadership, for me, is about setting a foundation and letting things evolve with purpose. My role is to shape the direction,” she added.
 
Toteme has moved from strength to strength with its product offering. The brand’s categories include women’s ready-to-wear, shoes, bags, accessories and fine jewelry at contemporary price points.
 
Accessories account for 20 percent of the company’s sales, and handbags are one of their fastest-growing categories. 
 
Since November 2022, Toteme has sold about 30,000 of its T-lock bags, which range from 730 pounds for a cotton-blend canvas finished with black leather to 1,100 pounds for a version made with Palmellato leather.

The demand for Toteme can be found on Facebook, started by fans of the brand with a page called “Anonyma Toteme addicts,” where women swap, source and buy pieces from the brand with other Toteme customers.
 
It’s in cultivating a community that Kling has found power.
 
“Being a woman has shaped how I see power — not as something to use to limit others, but something to share. It’s strengthened my belief in listening, intention, and leading with awareness,” she said. — Hikmat Mohammed

Marina Larroudé, cofounder and chief creative officer, Larroudé

When Marina Larroudé and her husband Ricardo launched their eponymous footwear company during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, she already had firm ideas about how she wanted to lead as a female founder.

“I’m clear and direct about expectations, but I also give people space to do their jobs. I believe in empowering people to take ownership. I give a lot of responsibility, and I don’t believe in rigid hierarchy. To me, the best idea always wins, no matter where it comes from,” said the executive, who previously held top roles at Condé Nast and Barneys New York.

Innovative thinking has been at the core of the New York-based company’s vertical business model. The couple employs more than 550 people in their home country of Brazil, the majority of whom are focused on production. A small team of five leads operations back in New York.
 
“Over 60 percent of our employees are women. Ricardo and I both believe in lifting people up based on their growth, skill set, and ability to get things done, not what their gender is,” Larroudé said. “I know from my own experience that this isn’t the norm everywhere.”
 
Reflecting on the early days of her career, the founder said she tried to surround herself with women who modeled what success could look like — both professionally and at home.

“I looked up to Amy Astley at Teen Vogue. She had a strong, steady career, was married, raising children in New York, and somehow made it all work. To me, she was an example of ‘how to do it,’” Larroudé said. “I’ve never believed I had to choose between being a mother and having a career. I’ve always been present — for my kids and for my team. My children know how deeply I love them, and they also see how passionate I am about growing as a person and pursuing my dreams.” — Katie Abel

Marie Leblanc, CEO, Courrèges

Marie Leblanc became chief executive officer of Courrèges in November 2024, following a successful tenure as CEO of Victoria Beckham, where she oversaw a full brand repositioning. 
 
Under her leadership, the Beckham business saw strong revenue growth, returned to profitability, and transformed into a global lifestyle label, with partnerships with Mango, Breitling and Augustinus Bader, among others. She also relocated its runway shows to Paris Fashion Week, aligning the creative vision with the industry’s luxury capital.
 
Before that, Leblanc held senior roles in design and product development at Isabel Marant, Céline and Sonia Rykiel, and later led womenswear buying at French department store chain Printemps, honing her eye for both creativity and commercial viability.
 
At Courrèges, she works closely with creative director Nicolas Di Felice to spearhead the next phase of growth for the Space Age label, which is expanding its retail network as it capitalizes on its revival.
 
Her leadership is defined by a rare ability to balance creative integrity with operational strategy — qualities that have made her one of the most respected executives in contemporary fashion.

“Marie’s unique talent lies in her ability to fully immerse herself in the creative process, ensuring it remains constantly aligned with the brand’s identity, while crafting an operational strategy that supports and enhances this creative vision,” said François-Henri Pinault, chairman and CEO of Kering and Artémis. — Joelle Diderich

Sarah Lee, cofounder and co-CEO, Glow Recipe

Glow Recipe cofounder and co-chief executive officer Sarah Lee thinks the personal is professional, and her leadership style follows suit.
 
“My approach to leadership is grounded in authenticity, vision and empowerment. To me, authenticity means showing up as a whole person — bringing both strength and vulnerability to the table, and leading with transparency and intention,” she said. “I try to understand people first, what drives them, what challenges them, and then support them with clarity, empathy and trust. At Glow Recipe, we believe that growth doesn’t happen in a vacuum, it comes from collaboration, from listening deeply and from creating the kind of environment where people feel confident taking ownership.”
 
That’s turned out to not only be a kind leadership style, but a motivational one for a business with global ambitions. Glow Recipe entered Australia, the Middle East and the U.K. in 2020, as well as debuted across Europe, Mexico and South America in the past year. On the product front, the brand has deepened its footprint in skin care and broadened laterally into makeup hybrids. 
 
Nevertheless, Lee believes that the business’s power to scale globally comes from its people.
 
“Power, to me, is the ability to create meaningful change while staying grounded in your values,” Lee said. “It’s not about authority or titles — it’s about intention, influence and the way you make others feel capable and seen. Some of the most powerful moments I’ve experienced have come from empathy in action: listening without ego, showing up with integrity, and helping someone recognize their own potential.” — James Manso

Veronica Miele Beard, cofounder and co-CEO, Veronica Beard  

Veronica Miele Beard started out in the world of finance in sales and trading at several investment banking firms on Wall Street. She also did a stint at Vogue in ad sales before becoming a partner and chief operating officer at tech hedge fund Coatue. In 2010, she and her sister-in-law, Veronica Swanson Beard, founded Veronica Beard.

In addition to its robust wholesale business, Veronica Beard has 44 freestanding stores, with three more opening in the second half of the year. International expansion is also a big focus right now. The company is launching at Selfridges in September and has a four-week residency at Galeries Lafayette starting in November. She is also the mother of five children.

Asked her philosophy and values when it comes to leadership, Miele Beard said, “Leadership starts with showing up — being present, being in it with the team. I believe in leading by example and creating a culture where everyone feels seen, heard and valued,” said Miele Beard.

On the topic of what she thinks is powerful, Miele Beard said, “Power is in the connections you make with others on a deeper and more meaningful level. It’s how you make others feel —creating an energy and aura of inspiration and creativity.”

When asked how being a woman has shaped her view on power and leadership, Miele Beard said, “Being a woman in business is a secret weapon. We lead with resilience and emotional intelligence — because we’ve had to. Women often bring a unique lens to leadership, shaped by challenges we’ve had to overcome — and that’s a real strength. I try to use that perspective to lift others up.” — Lisa Lockwood

Amy Montagne, president, Nike 

The Swoosh is charging ahead with an ambitious overhaul, and Amy Montagne is central to the new plan.
 
The executive was named president of the flagship brand in May, a fresh challenge she is embracing after two decades at the company.
 
“There is a common theme across the world’s most successful athletes and sport teams that has formed my philosophy: leadership is earned. It is built on trust, integrity and consistent action,” Montagne said. “It’s about showing up, even in uncertain times or when you’re behind on the scoreboard. You have to prove that you’re willing to put the work in, to lean in, to dig deep, so that the entire team can advance.”
 
Most recently, Montagne was vice president and general manager of the global women’s business, a critical category for every athletic brand. She points to Nike’s impact on women’s sports as a major turning point. 
 
“When we embarked on building the women’s business, it was not because the world already recognized the potential of women’s sports,” she said. “It was because we dared to imagine a future where women’s sports and female athletes are cultural icons and inspire the next generation to dream big,” said Montagne, who held previous roles at Gap Inc., Mervyn’s and Walmart.
 
As her career has evolved, Montagne has learned to embrace vulnerability and be open about all aspects of her life. “For a long time, I tried to keep my work life and home life separate,” she admitted. “But in recent years, I have seen that these things — being a mother, a wife, a daughter, a friend, a community leader, and much more — are strengths. I recognize and celebrate that every person has their own unique story and journey that goes beyond work.” — Katie Abel

Danessa Myricks, founder and CEO, Danessa Myricks Beauty

While Danessa Myricks didn’t set out to become a makeup artist, she was always destined to become one. Following an early career at a magazine, Myricks pivoted and set out to make a name for herself in the cosmetics industry, which ultimately led to her viral namesake brand.
 
Although Myricks is among the most well-known artists and brand founders in the industry, to her, power looks like collaboration and lifting others up.
 
“Power, to me, is the ability to create space — space for others to feel seen, heard and valued,” she said. “It’s not about control, but rather about impact. When you use your platform to uplift others, challenge norms and turn possibility into reality, that’s real power.”
 
When it comes to being a leader, Myricks has also forged her own path and advises others to do the same.
 
“Historically, because there’s a perception of how women are expected to be in leadership roles, there’s doubt about the capacity and strength of a woman in charge. As a woman in a position of power, I am working to change that narrative and those perceptions,” she said. “I believe that power can look and feel different for everyone. The world prescribes women in power to look a particular way: on one hand, women in power are expected to be super strong and demonstrate some forceful traits, and on the other hand, some people believe women should be ultra feminine or possess a mother-like quality. There’s no one way to be a woman in a leadership role. It’s about leaning into your strengths and your authenticity. There is courage in being your authentic self. Being a woman has taught me to lead with heart, and never to underestimate the influence of compassion and conviction.” — Emily Burns

Brieane Olson, CEO, PacSun

Brieane Olson has been in the retail trenches nearly her entire life.

The CEO of PacSun started out working for Banana Republic as a teenager, and over the years has held posts at J.Crew, Marzotto and Abercrombie & Fitch before joining PacSun as senior design director of women’s in 2007. She worked her way up to the top of the C-suite, being named CEO just over two years ago.

Since taking over the top spot, the Harvard Business School grad and mother of two has worked to create what she calls a “purpose-driven” company that connects with its target of Gen Z and Gen Alpha customers. From collaborations with Formula 1 and the Metropolitan Museum of Art to relationships with Selena Gomez, A$AP Rocky and Fear of God’s Jerry Lorenzo, PacSun has managed to prosper while many of its teen-oriented competitors have struggled or disappeared.

Although she wields power as CEO, she looks at it more as “the ability to create momentum, to turn vision into reality, to inspire others into action, and to build something that resonates far beyond the boardroom. True power isn’t about control; it’s about clarity, courage and consistency. It’s about staying grounded in your values while having the imagination to challenge norms and lead people to somewhere new. I also believe power is really connected to kindness. I’ve found that some of the most powerful leaders lead with kindness, creating space for others, acting with intention and staying rooted in purpose even when the path forward isn’t clear.”

As a female CEO, Olson said she’s learned that power is “forged in resilience, intuition, and the ability to lead with both strength and kindness. I’ve learned to see power not as a hierarchy but as influence – the kind that comes from authenticity, not authority. As women, we’re often expected to balance contradictions – assertive but not aggressive, visionary but pragmatic. That duality has made me a better leader. And, as the first female CEO of our organization, it’s shaped how I show up: grounded in purpose, open to growth, and always focused on building our community – and the PacSun brand – to reflect the future we want to see.” – Jean E. Palmieri

Yana Peel, president of Arts, Culture and Heritage at Chanel, member of the executive team and a board member of Fondation Chanel

A philanthropist, former CEO of the Serpentine Galleries in London, and pillar of the art world, Yana Peel joined Chanel in 2020 as the house’s first global head of arts and culture.

A year later, she launched the Chanel Culture Fund, which supports artists and works with curators, museums and institutions on what she describes as “long-term, transformational” projects.  

Peel was born in Saint Petersburg, Russia and later moved to Canada with her family. She attended McGill University and earned a postgraduate degree in economics at London School of Economics before starting her career at Goldman Sachs.

She is a Young Global Leader and a member of the Global Arts and Culture Council of the World Economic Forum; a Crown Fellow of the Aspen Institute; and a Fellow of the Royal Institute of British Architects. Her board commitments include Sadler’s Wells Theatre and international councils for Tate, the Metropolitan Museum, and American Ballet Theatre. 

She believes power is “the ability to activate people around a common goal — which turns ideas into impact. I find true strength in identifying game-changers across the arts, then deploying resources within my realm to champion them.” 

Peel believes that in the “dialogue between culture and commerce true power flourishes. It’s in this collaborative space that we unlock new ways of thinking, solve problems creatively, and catalyze progress. It is also the zone of influence in which I thrive.”

She said her sense of leadership is rooted in “collaboration, curiosity and courage,” and that being a woman has set her up to face the challenges of life and work.

“Women,” she said, “have perfected the pivot — adapting, responding, and thriving across different stages. I’m deeply honored to extend that knowledge as a board member of Fondation Chanel, which is dedicated to advancing opportunity, safety and dignity for women and girls worldwide — an imperative that feels more urgent than ever — and to supporting female artists, leaders, and voices through the Chanel Culture Fund.” — Samantha Conti

Maria Porro, president, Salone del Mobile.Milano

“I see leadership as an act of listening and relationship-building. I approach work as a web of meaningful connections baked on the coherence between values and actions,” said Maria Porro, Salone del Mobile.Milano’s first female president. Porro has been entrusted with propelling the world’s biggest high-end design trade show into the modern age during a challenging period, and exporting the fair to new global markets like Saudi Arabia.

When she’s not organizing the event that attracts more than 300,000 visitors each year, Porro is also the mother of three children and the current marketing and communications director of the Brianza-based family-run furniture firm her great-grandfather Giulio started with his brother Stefano in 1925. When Salone del Mobile.Milano was founded in 1961, her grandfather Carlo Porro was among its founders. 

The first female in her family to make a mark on the worldwide stage, she sees her gender as a strength, not a hindrance. “Being a woman has shaped my view of leadership as a form of care. Society often associates power with traditional strength, hierarchy, or control… Feminine power, to me, is not about competition — it’s about transformation. It nurtures, includes, and builds lasting impact from the inside out,” she told WWD. 

In addition to global expansion, Porro has been focused on infusing the Milan fair with an unmissable “wow” factor. Porro, who studied scenography, has been linking the worlds of design with that of film like never before, forging ties with icons like Academy Award-winning director Paolo Sorrentino and late film director David Lynch. 

Porro admits that taking over the fair during the COVID-19 pandemic and through a chapter of economic uncertainty has not been easy, but she remains steadfast in growing a value-driven business. — Luisa Zargani

Sasha Radic, managing director, beauty and wellness investment banking, Jefferies

Sasha Radic has been making a name for herself in the beauty banking world, working on some of the hottest initial public offerings and deals. Notable transactions include the Nutrafol sale to Unilever, Ouai to P&G, Chantecaille to Beiersdorf and Charlotte Tilbury to Puig.

“Power is creating change that endures,” she said. “I have the privilege of working with clients at defining milestones in their journey. Our work not only shapes their future but also sets precedents that move the industry forward. Embracing that perspective and carrying the weight of that responsibility is what defines power for me.”

She believes leadership begins with values — acting with integrity, making decisions with clarity, and building trust through authentic relationships. “Investment banking is a team sport. Leadership is about bringing together exceptional people and harnessing their strengths to create lasting value for our clients.” 

On how being a woman shaped her view on power and leadership, she said ithas shown her that power is not only about driving outcomes, but about redefining what leadership looks like. “It’s the resilience to persevere, the ability to inspire performance, and the responsibility to ensure progress leaves the door open for others to follow.” — Kathryn Hopkins

Lauren Santo Domingo, cofounder and chief brand officer, Moda Operandi; artistic director of home, Tiffany & Co.

Lauren Santo Domingo may be better known as cofounder and chief brand officer of Moda Operandi and artistic director, home at Tiffany & Co., but to her 500,000 plus Instagram followers and friends, she’s also known for her unabashed voice, speaking her mind on current affairs, women’s rights, and, naturally, on the latest fashion and industry developments.

While many corporate executives have grown more cautious about speaking on issues that could be seen as political, Santo Domingo has only amplified her voice, embodying her belief that women should lead the industry with integrity and purpose. For her, true power means “standing up for who and what you believe in.”

Since cofounding the e-commerce platform in 2010, the entrepreneur has steered the company through multiple evolutions — from scaling and expanding into new categories to most recently, narrowing the investor base by moving away from private equity toward a more focused group. This ongoing process of refinement and steadfast commitment to what works has positioned the company to weather the current headwinds facing the luxury industry.

Santo Domingo serves on the board of directors for Moda Operandi and Save Venice Inc. — a nonprofit devoted to preserving the arts in Venice, Italy, and supports philanthropic initiatives for The Met’s Costume Institute and Paris’ Musée des Arts Décoratifs. — Kathy G. Lee

Joon Silverstein, chief marketing officer, Coach

From the beginning of her career, Joon Silverstein has approached leadership with a people-first mindset, prioritizing listening over telling. Now, as chief marketing officer at Coach and the founder and head of Coachtopia — a subbrand rooted in the principles of circular fashion — she is shaping the future of the industry with that same ethos.

In her current role, Silverstein leads brand building and marketing strategies that effectively resonates with Gen Z, developing innovative and interactive programs like the one where she called on consumers to co-create with the brand. She expanded Coach across eight markets while enlightening the industry on what can be achieved through circularity, proving that sustainability can be cool and look good too in the process.

A former consultant with the Boston Consulting Group, Silverstein quickly established herself in the fashion industry, beginning at Victoria’s Secret as director of strategy and business development before advancing to associate vice president of new and emerging business. She then joined Louis Vuitton, where she served as vice president of customer experience and retail performance, later becoming VP and general manager of the Fifth Avenue flagship, and ultimately VP and country manager for Canada and Bermuda. In 2014, Silverstein brought her expertise to Coach as senior vice president of global customer experience, expanding her scope over the years across marketing, digital, sustainability, and creative — culminating in her recent promotion to CMO.

When leading, her philosophy “is grounded in purpose — aligning business performance with our responsibility to help build a better future for our communities and our planet — and this requires the courage to take imperfect steps.” She explains that “the fear of getting it ‘wrong’ can stall progress. That’s why we’ve worked hard to create a culture [at Coach] that values progress over perfection — where taking risks and experimenting become springboards for creativity.” — Kathy G. Lee

Tara Simon, president, the Americas, Estée Lauder Cos.

Tara Simon is working to reinvigorate the Estée Lauder Cos.’ presence in the Americas.
Simon’s focus is on executing the company’s brick-and-mortar channel strategy, including specialty-multi, department stores and freestanding stores.

She joined the Estée Lauder Cos. in 2020 as senior vice president, global manager at Too Faced, and was promoted to global brand president, California brands, which includes oversight of Too Faced and Smashbox.

Prior to joining Lauder, she served as senior vice president of merchandising, prestige beauty at Ulta Beauty. Simon began her career at the Foley’s department store in Houston where, over her 19-year tenure, she held various positions of increasing responsibility in cosmetics and fragrance.

“I set the bar high, clear the path and bring people along. I lead like I mentor: with clarity, connection and the kind of consistency you can count on. I see it as my job to eliminate obstacles so my team can focus on what they do best, and to grow and protect the individual, not just the output,” she said of her leadership style.

On how being a woman has shaped her view on power and leadership, she noted: “I’ve never led any way but like a woman, and I wouldn’t want to. I lean into all the things that make us powerful: intuition, compassion, grit and grace. I don’t shy away from my femininity; I embrace it. My strength doesn’t come from hiding emotion; it comes from owning it. That balance of resilience and care is a superpower.” — Kathryn Hopkins

Jane Siskin, cofounder and co-CEO of Jaya Apparel Group

In a career spanning more than four decades, Jane Siskin cofounded Jaya Apparel Group, launched the brands Cinq a Sept and LaROK, and partnered with Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen to create Elizabeth and James.

With Jalal El Basri, Jaya Apparel Group became a leader in the contemporary fashion space, developing highly successful apparel brands with Disney, MTV, and Dualstar Entertainment. In 2000, under a different name, the company launched 7 for All Mankind, leading to its multiyear partnership with Mary-Kate Olsen and Ashley Olsen in 2007 — Elizabeth and James grew to generate $100 million in annual sales in just a few years. In 2016, the company further expanded its portfolio with the creation of Cinq à Sept — selling to major retailers like Saks Fifth Avenue, Nordstrom, Neiman Marcus, Bloomingdale’s and Revolve and operating its own stores in New York, Miami, and Newport Beach, Calif. — and in 2023, Jaya Apparel Group received its first strategic investment from private equity firm Brand Velocity Group.

When it comes to leading a team, Siskin believes it’s “an act of service. It’s about creating an environment where others can thrive — where talent is nurtured, voices are heard, and growth is a shared pursuit. The most powerful thing you can do as a leader is to equip your team with the knowledge, confidence and support to succeed.”

She continues, “I believe power begins with how you show up for yourself: through excellence, consistency and quiet conviction regardless of gender. At Jaya Apparel Group, women make up 88 percent of our leadership team — not because of a quota, but because they’re the most qualified and capable,” she said. — Lisa Lockwood

Sarah Staudinger, cofounder and creative director of Staud

Sarah Staudinger quickly found a strong fan base for her playful, fashionable brand she cofounded with George Augusto in 2015 through her ability to meld nostalgia and modernity from head to toe. This mindset helped her expand into new categories, including swimwear, sportswear and pets, and garnered cult status with items like the fish-shaped bags. The brand now has eight stand-alone brick and mortar locations and has collaborated with the likes of Birkenstock, the St. Regis and New Balance.
 
A lightheartedness and flexibility are key components to Staudinger’s approach in leading the contemporary label. “Business and leadership are about embracing the process: falling down, getting up, and finding joy in every chaotic, creative step along the way. I also believe strongly in never taking things too personally. My success isn’t mine alone — it’s built on collaboration, teamwork, and surrounding myself with people who also thrive in the messiness and unpredictability of leadership,” she said, adding that “being able to laugh at yourself a bit when things go sideways — that’s the cherry on top.”
 
She knows that life can throw a curveball or two. “The ability to be nimble and not precious about how you get there is where the real power lies. Power isn’t necessarily about achieving exactly what you envisioned, but about how you navigate the journey and overcome the obstacles that inevitably arise,” said Staudinger.
 
The designer acknowledges that being a woman has helped her “recognize the importance of creating from a place where I truly am my customer and enjoying the fulfillment that comes from seeing others express themselves through something I’ve built. And honestly, navigating the world as a woman has taught me resilience: it’s not about avoiding setbacks, but about never letting them dictate your narrative — or wardrobe choices.” — Emily Mercer

Kecia Steelman, president and CEO, Ulta Beauty

She may only be six months into the top job at Ulta Beauty, but chief executive officer Kecia Steelman is quickly garnering a reputation in the industry as a fast, intentional and strategic decision maker who has wasted no time making her mark on the retailer.

Already, she has made sweeping changes to the C-suite, unveiled a strategy called Ulta Beauty Unleashed, brokered a licensing deal to expand the company into the Middle East and Mexico and acquired Space NK to gain a foothold in the U.K. More moves are said to be on their way.

“I believe leading with confidence is powerful. Having the confidence to make tough decisions, to trust your team, to learn from your mistakes, and to keep moving forward. It’s not about having all the answers — it’s about having the courage to act, even in the face of uncertainty. That kind of confidence is contagious — and transformative,” she said.

For Steelman, retail is in her bones. She began her career in operations at Target Corp. in the ’90s, then moved to Home Depot and Family Dollar Stores. In 2021, she was named chief operating officer of Ulta and later added president to her title.

As part of this, she views Ulta Beauty’s army of associates as key to her plan to reinvigorate growth at the retailer.

“I’ve spent more than 30 years in retail, many of them in stores. When you spend time on the front line, you gain a genuine appreciation for the people out in the field who make it all happen. My leadership philosophy is simple: people first, performance always,” she continued. “I believe in showing up with humanity, building trust through action, and creating space for others to lead. When people have a strong sense of purpose, understand how they contribute to the mission, and have clarity about how to deliver — they’re beautifully unstoppable.” — Kathryn Hopkins

Martha Stewart, cofounder of Biosciences, founder of Martha Stewart Living Omnimedia

Martha Stewart is a woman of many talents, from stockbroker, tastemaker, TV show host, author to entrepreneur. Most recently, she added the title of skin care founder, launching brand Elm Biosciences with Dr. Dhaval Bhanusali, a board-certified dermatologist, laser surgeon and biotech entrepreneur. The brand, powered by clinically studied ingredients and backed by 350 dermatologist advisers, will launch with the A3O Elemental Serum, $135, and Inner Dose The Daily Skin Supplement, $50, which together target the main causes of aging. 
 
“You don’t need 100 different products to put on your face. You need about three amazing products,” said Stewart of skin care.
 
And that’s not it. She’s also for the first time opening stand-alone stores in the UAE through Marquee Brands, the brand manager and owner of the Martha Stewart brand. The first opened at the Mirdiff City Center in Dubai on May 22, and the second opened at the Dubai Hills Mall on July 17. 

According to officials from Marquee Brands, additional Martha Stewart stores will be rolled out in India, Kuwait and Saudi Arabia. Some may or may not open this year, while others will happen next year. 

“We’ve created a beautifully designed space filled with products that I personally love and use,” said Stewart, in a statement provided to WWD. “I think customers will find inspiration and plenty of practical ideas for making their homes more beautiful, comfortable and functional.” — Kathryn Hopkins

Veronica Swanson Beard, cofounder and co-CEO, Veronica Beard 

Veronica Swanson Beard cofounded Veronica Beard with her sister-in-law, Veronica Miele Beard in 2010. Together, they created a collection of cool classics that speak to today’s multifaceted, multitasking women. 

“Being a woman, and a mom [of three sons] has taught me how to juggle, lead with empathy, and make every moment count. It’s made me more present, more patient, and more powerful in ways I never expected,” said Swanson Beard when asked how being a woman has shaped her. 

Swanson Beard grew up between Florida, London and California before heading to New York to study at Parsons School of Design. She began her career in sales at Narciso Rodriguez and Alberta Ferretti and then became a buyer at specialty retailer Marissa Collections. 

Having the two of them running the company has also been a true asset. They trust each other, bounce ideas off each other and can back each other up. Together, they have been building the business organically.

Both she and her sister-in-law have been very active on the philanthropic front, starting VB Gives Back, where the company unites around common causes, partnering with organizations to amplify their mission. Since 2010, they have donated $7 million to more than 700 organizations.

“I lead with empathy, but I also set the bar high. I believe in creating a culture of trust and accountability — where everyone feels supported to do their best work and rise to their full potential,” said Swanson Beard.

Asked what she thinks is powerful, she replied, “Power is having a clear vision and the conviction to stand by it. It’s knowing your point of view, trusting your instincts, and not being afraid to do things your own way.” — Lisa Lockwood

Anna Sweeting, founder of The Equity Studio

As founder of The Equity Studio — an investment firm backing brands across wellness, beauty and lifestyle — Anna Sweeting has built a community of experts to exchange ideas, offer their expertise and ensure that the companies in her portfolio succeed.

The Equity Studio partners with the next generation of consumer companies across the U.K., Europe and the U.S., and Sweeting’s approach has been to combine capital with “strategic support and cultural amplification.”

She has spent more than 15 years spotting trends and identifying breakout brands early, and her global portfolio has so far generated billions of dollars in enterprise value.

That portfolio includes Trip, which creates vitamin and plant-powered beverages and supplements; the honey-based hair care brand Gisou; Vestiaire Collective; 111Skin; Axel Arigato; Little Spoon, and DeMellier.

Power, she said,“is the ability to shape what happens next — to influence which ideas grow, which stories get told, and what kind of future we build. I’ve always believed that capital is a cultural force. Where money flows determine what scales and what gets seen. And that power becomes truly transformative when it’s paired with emotional intelligence and instinct — when it doesn’t just fund growth, but shapes meaning.”

She added: “I see power in clarity of vision, in the courage to act before something is obvious, and in the discipline to stay aligned. True power is not loud or performative — it’s grounded and moves ideas from the margins to the center.”

Being a woman, she added, “has made me deeply attuned to nuance — to what’s unspoken, to the energy in the room and to the signals others might miss. It’s taught me that power doesn’t need to copy old models to be effective. In fact, the most transformative power often redefines the model entirely.”

Sweeting said that “women have often built from instinct rather than entitlement, using sheer resilience and resourcefulness — and I am one of them. That’s shaped how I lead: by building community, not just companies. I’ve had to navigate systems not originally designed for women, and I’ve chosen to reshape them, not just fit into them.” — Samantha Conti

Louise Trotter, creative director at Bottega Veneta

Louise Trotter joined Bottega Veneta as the first female creative director in January. She hails from Carven, where in just two seasons, the British designer succeeded in reigniting buzz around the brand, which was bought out of bankruptcy in 2018 by ICCF Group, the Franco-Chinese fashion entity that also owns Icicle.

Carven had been absent from the runways and without a marquee designer for several years. Trotter reenergized the label with her quietly sensual designs in tune with Madame Carven’s fondness for simple constructions and clean lines — and her focus on textures would gel with Bottega Veneta and her predecessor’s work at the brand.

Before Carven, Trotter held the same role for four years at Lacoste, where she beefed up the womenswear offering and explored innovative methods of upcycling.

She studied fashion design at Newcastle University and worked at contemporary British label Whistles before moving Stateside to design for Calvin Klein, and later Gap and Tommy Hilfiger.

Trotter returned to London for a stint at Jigsaw and then served as creative director of Joseph from 2009 to 2018, a period of product diversification and international expansion for the brand.

Trotter’s debut collection for Bottega Veneta will be shown on Sept. 28 at 5 p.m. CET in Milan. —Luisa Zargani

Nadège Vanhee, artistic director for women’s-to-wear, Hermès 

Nadège Vanhee is a key architect of the minimalist aesthetic ruling high-end fashion. Just don’t call it quiet luxury.
 
As artistic director for women’s ready-to-wear at Hermès since 2014, her collections are equal parts understated elegance and tough chic. Witness her “equestrian biker” looks for fall 2024, with their horsey scarf prints and studded leather. “The idea was to think about riding from traditional to sharp and rebellious,” she said.

Born in Lille, France, to an Algerian mother and French father, Vanhee grew up listening to garage rock and scouring flea markets for one-off looks.

A graduate of the Royal Academy of Fine Arts in Antwerp, her attitude to fame was shaped by the notoriously reclusive designers she worked with, from Martin Margiela to Phoebe Philo at Céline, and Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen at The Row.

Vanhee keeps off social media and maintains a low public profile, despite holding one of the most coveted jobs in fashion. Sales of ready-to-wear and accessories have tripled under her tenure and now account for 29 percent of sales at Hermès, up from 22 percent in 2015.

Functionality and freedom are key throughlines in her work, rooted in the house’s saddle-making past. Leather is a core material, channeling her vision of a strong, cerebral woman whose style transcends seasonal trends. 
 
Asked what she thinks is powerful, Vanhee replied: “I find the power of ideas especially fascinating — such as knowledge and creativity. They have the potential to inspire change, solve problems, and connect people across different times and places. Ideas have a kind of timeless, transformative power that drives progress in so many areas.”

Rooted in quiet confidence, she believes her leadership style is not determined by gender. “I never really grasped this question of gender, and perhaps that is what allowed me to maintain a great freedom of thought and movement in my creation and my way of collaborating with teams,” she said.

“To me, leadership is grounded in a clear personal philosophy that aligns values, beliefs about people, and vision. It helps to stay authentic, consistent, and guide teams through complexity and change.” — Joelle Diderich

Libby Wadle, CEO, J. Crew Group

Libby Wadle has been chief executive officer of the J. Crew Group, parent company of the J.Crew, Madewell and Crewcuts brands for almost five years, rising to the post just a couple of months after the company got out of bankruptcy and in the middle of the pandemic. Wadle has more than 30 years of retail and apparel industry experience, and prior to becoming CEO of the group, she held senior management roles at the J.Crew and Madewell brands.

“I believe that a strong team is everything,” Wadle told WWD. Good leaders know how to surround themselves with those who not only complement their strengths but also challenge their perspectives. One of the most important qualities in a leader is being constantly curious. Great leaders remain open and engaged. They are present in the moment, actively listening and continuously learning from those around them. 

“I think it’s powerful when someone strikes the balance between being confident and self-assured, while also staying open, vulnerable and empathetic to those around them.…This isn’t always specific to women, but I believe it’s important to have the ability to read the room, to truly see and understand the people around you. Great leaders recognized that how something is said is just as important as what is said, they tailor their approach to ensure that others feel seen, heard and understood. That builds trust and brings people along with you.”

Wadle is credited with reviving J.Crew and reigniting Madewell’s growth by replenishing the creative ranks while also centralizing and streamlining certain areas of the business, and making targeted investments in technology, omni-capabilities, refreshing stores, and even in catalogues, which Crew basically had phased out. Efforts have been made to elevate the profiles of creative directors Brendon Babenzien, on the men’s side, and Olympia Gayot on the women’s and kids’ sides, through blogs and social media. Other tactics involved reestablishing  and reimagining several of J.Crew’s “hero” products, like the Giant Fit chino, the relaxed Kenmare suit, and cashmere. As Wadle once told WWD, it’s about asserting the J.Crew heritage made modern, “a refresh, not a reinvention, an evolution, not a transformation.” And at Madewell, it’s been more about constantly refining and strengthening the denim offering — always the focus of the brand — and providing the sportswear and outfits to go with the denim. — David Moin

Trinny Woodall, founder and CEO, Trinny London

If anyone’s a survivor, and a thriver, it’s Trinny Woodall, who conquered addiction, rose to fame on British TV, worked as a newspaper columnist and YouTuber and then pivoted, in spectacular fashion, to beauty, launching her own makeup and skin care brand, Trinny London.

The self-made entrepreneur, who also has a robust following on Instagram touting Trinny products and those of other brands, may be sitting atop a company worth more than 180 million pounds, but she’s not stopping anytime soon. There are more products to launch, and engagement to be had with her 2 million Instagram followers and her Trinny Tribe, a loyal community whose members test products early, offer feedback and channel Trinny’s can-do spirit.

She treasures her Trinny Tribe, and trusts them, too. “Honesty has always been the foundation of how I lead, and the foundation of everything at Trinny London. From Day One, I’ve continued to speak to women about their routines and experiences — that raw honesty helped create a community that trusts us, and feels deeply connected to what we do,” she said.

Woodall has earned every ounce of her power, which to her means “having the confidence to be your most fearless self, and helping others feel the same. That’s what Trinny London’s ethos is all about — creating products and experiences that empower our customers to feel their best selves. True power isn’t about dominance; it’s about lifting others up.”

She also champions other female-led businesses with The Elevator Pitch, a series on the brand’s social platforms where female founders pitch businesses to Woodall in the office elevators, and by hosting Fearless Founder events: a supper club to connect entrepreneurs.

“Early on, I realized how much harder it can be for women to ask for investment. Female-founded companies still receive only 2 pence for every 1 pound invested in start-ups. Having pitched to rooms full of men who didn’t understand the market I was speaking to, I feel strongly about supporting other female founders,” she said. —  Samantha Conti

Melissa Worth, senior vice president, Americas at New Balance Athletics Inc.

For Melissa Worth, navigating leadership has given her a sharp sense of what inclusion really means.  

“It’s not just about representation, it’s about voice, influence and opportunity,” said the senior vice president of Americas at New Balance Athletics Inc. “I lead with confidence and the awareness that influence and empathy go a long way. True leadership is measured by the doors you open and the culture you help shape.”

In her role, Worth leads the America region’s retail, wholesale, e-commerce, marketing, merchandising and operations. Worth has been instrumental in driving momentum at the brand, which saw overall sales increase 20 percent in 2024 as it continues to capture a greater share of the athletic market.

According to Worth, that success is directly tied to the team’s ability to be innovative and evolve. “At New Balance, we recognize power of our associates and leadership that inspires vision, builds trust and fosters connection. That belief fuels our brand, our culture, and keeps us moving forward with intention and integrity,” she said. “Leadership starts with people. I believe in showing up authentically, setting ambitious expectations, and creating a space where teams feel heard, empowered, supported and challenged. When we lead with purpose and stay close to our people, we not only build a stronger brand, but also a future that reflects the very best of who we are.” — Katie Abel

Heela Yang, CEO and founder, Sol de Janeiro

Sol de Janeiro founder and CEO Heela Yang doesn’t just know what it takes to stay ahead of the curve — she’s built a career of it. 
 
The fragrance and body care brand she launched in 2015 has since brought its Brazil-inspired offerings to a global audience, soaring through the ranks at Sephora and cementing itself as an early player in body mists and fragrance-forward body care — both of which are key growth drivers of the scent category today. 
 
In 2021, Swiss group L’Occitane acquired a majority stake in the brand, which was then valued at $450 million, and by 2023 had grown its global revenues to roughly $650 million. 
 
Best known for its $48 Brazilian Bum Bum Cream, the brand has swiftly become a Gen Alpha favorite all while maintaining the loyalty of its longtime Gen Z and Millennial fan bases. Data from CreatorIQ shows Sol de Janeiro is also routinely a top-10 skin care brand by earned media value, a testament to its unwavering cultural relevance. 
 
“In beauty, you’re constantly balancing creativity and discipline, and I believe culture is what helps you do both,” said Yang of her leadership approach. “I always tell my team to trust their instincts, stay close to the consumer and keep learning — curiosity and humility will keep you grounded and moving forward.”
 
Being a woman, she continued, “has taught me to define power on my own terms. Leadership isn’t about fitting into someone else’s mold; it’s about showing up with authenticity, conviction and purpose. I’m lucky to be in an industry surrounded by incredible women, where I can be completely myself and lead in a way that feels true to me.” — Noor Lobad

Deborah Yeh, global CMO, Sephora

As beauty consumers’ desires and needs rapidly shapeshift today like never before, Deborah Yeh is successfully steering Sephora, the largest prestige beauty retailer, in uncharted territories.

Yeh stepped into Sephora’s global chief marketing officer role in November 2023, having most recently served as its global chief purpose officer. The new post came with a wide purview.

She has been charged with reinforcing Sephora’s desirability and continuing to increase its global community of loyal members. Yeh also fosters cross-region collaborations and best-practice sharing, while spearheading the retailer’s purpose and sustainability strategy.

When asked what she considers powerful, Yeh said: “I’ve come to appreciate that power comes in many forms. Loud or soft. Commanding or motivating. We seem to be in a moment of history that favors an authoritative version of power. However, I tend to be more wowed by people who practice power through ideas and inspiration.”

Yeh has viewed leadership through a specific lens from the start. “I was raised by parents who taught that any blessings one receives in life come with responsibility,” she said. “So in my mind, leadership has always been paired with service. What good is power if you don’t use it for the betterment of others? This can mean a community, a group of consumers or a team. I’m lucky to have a role that encourages me to think about all three.

“Being a woman has challenged me to fight expectations on what power looks like and sounds like,” continued Yeh. “I don’t think my younger self could have ever imagined being on any ‘power’ list! But it’s not all about a struggle. Being a woman has also come with the pleasure of being part of a sisterhood — sharing power, lifting each other up and enjoying the strength of community.” — Jennifer Weil