Five years ago, Hillary Taymour, the founder of one of New York City’s buzziest independent fashion labels, Collina Strada, was interviewing for a new job. A creative director post had opened at a European women’s luxury brand—and if Taymour landed the role, she’d level up from dressing a devoted, US-based clientele to designing for millions of women worldwide. After eight months spent interviewing with HR reps and company executives, the SCAD alum felt confident she’d landed the gig. She even began packing her bags, arranged for someone to take over her Manhattan lease, and planned her first-day outfit as the new leader of a heritage fashion house.
But then the brand called back with a disheartening update. A male designer was selected instead. Taymour was heartbroken, but not surprised. To date, she’s been in the running for creative director openings at seven other women’s luxury brands. All but one position went to a male designer; an exception she says was simply a company mandate. “The lack of women being given the opportunity to dress women is appalling,” Taymour says, resigned, on a Zoom call in June.
