Emma Grede: A Trailblazing Entrepreneur and Advocate for Inclusivity in Fashion

In the ever-evolving landscape of the fashion industry, Emma Grede stands out as a trailblazing entrepreneur who has not only made significant strides in the business world but has also become a prominent advocate for inclusivity and diversity. As the CEO and Co-Founder of Good American, the first fully inclusive fashion brand, Emma has revolutionized the way we perceive and celebrate women’s bodies. This article explores Emma’s journey, from her early days in fashion show production to her role as a groundbreaking entrepreneur and advocate for change.

The Genesis of Good American

In October 2016, Emma Grede, in collaboration with Khloé Kardashian, launched Good American, a brand dedicated to empowering women of all shapes and sizes. The brand’s mission is to instill confidence in women by offering high-quality designs in denim, ready-to-wear, swimwear, shoes, and activewear. The launch of Good American marked a historic moment in the fashion industry, as it became the largest denim launch in history.

Emma’s Background and Early Career

Emma Grede’s journey into the world of fashion began with her education at the prestigious London School of Fashion. Her early career involved working in fashion show production, where she honed her skills and developed a keen understanding of the industry’s dynamics. However, Emma’s entrepreneurial spirit led her to found ITB, a talent management and entertainment marketing agency, where she served as the CEO.

ITB’s success did not go unnoticed, and the company was eventually acquired by Rogers & Cowan, providing Emma with her second successful company exit. This early success laid the foundation for her future endeavors, including the creation of Good American.

Diversification and Collaborations

What started as a denim-centric brand has evolved into an iconic and inclusive fashion line encompassing a wide range of categories, from swimwear to activewear. Emma’s ability to adapt and diversify the brand’s offerings speaks to her keen business acumen and understanding of the dynamic needs of the market.

In addition to her role at Good American, Emma is a founding partner of SKIMS alongside Kim Kardashian West. SKIMS focuses on creating inclusive underwear, loungewear, and shapewear, representing a solutions-oriented approach to undergarment design. Emma’s involvement in SKIMS highlights her commitment to challenging traditional norms and providing women with options that cater to their diverse body types and preferences.

Safely: A Venture Beyond Fashion

Emma’s entrepreneurial spirit extends beyond the realms of fashion. As a co-founder of Safely, a plant-powered cleaning brand, Emma ventures into the world of sustainable and chemical-free cleaning products. Safely aims to deliver safe and effective cleaning solutions to the masses, aligning with Emma’s commitment to making a positive impact beyond the fashion industry.

Shark Tank and Breaking Barriers

In a historic move, Emma Grede became the first Black female shark on season 13 of the multi-Emmy Award-winning series, “Shark Tank.” This achievement not only showcases Emma’s business acumen but also breaks barriers in an industry that has historically lacked diverse representation. Emma’s presence on the show serves as an inspiration for aspiring entrepreneurs, particularly those who identify with underrepresented communities.

Advocacy for Change: Fifteen Percent Pledge and Beyond

Emma’s commitment to driving change and championing diversity is evident through her role as the Chairwoman of the Fifteen Percent Pledge. This advocacy initiative urges companies to commit at least 15% of their shelf space to Black-owned businesses, addressing the longstanding issue of underrepresentation in retail.

Beyond her involvement with the Fifteen Percent Pledge, Emma serves as an advocate for women’s rights and empowerment. Her active role as a trustee and board member of Women for Women International and a board member of Baby2Baby showcases her dedication to supporting organizations that uplift and empower women globally.

Conclusion

Emma Grede’s journey from fashion show production to becoming the CEO and Co-Founder of Good American is a testament to her resilience, vision, and commitment to fostering inclusivity in the fashion industry. As a serial entrepreneur, Emma has not only achieved remarkable success in business but has also used her platform to advocate for positive change. Her involvement in various ventures, from fashion to sustainable cleaning products, reflects a holistic approach to entrepreneurship that goes beyond conventional boundaries. Emma’s trailblazing spirit, combined with her advocacy for diversity and inclusivity, marks her as a leader shaping the future of the fashion industry.