Inspired Women, Inspiring Women
Meet the inspired women who are inspiring women – modern-day history in the making.
We tend to focus our attention on moving forward and what's next. But in building a better future, we must also draw upon the stories of the past. Where we are now – and often who we are now – is a culmination of the influence and efforts of the women who came before us. In honor of Black History Month, we are amplifying the stories of influential Black women past and present. Meet the inspired women who are inspiring women – modern-day history in the making.
SHAY SWEENEY
Founder, Sweenshots X Shay Moné Studio and Co-Founder, Influencing in Color
Name three traits that describe yourself
Loyal, hard working, God fearing
As a Black woman, what are you most proud of?
I am most proud of just that, being a Black Woman! I am comfortable in my own skin, I am comfortable with my hair, and everything about me!
What Black woman from history has been an inspiration to you?
There are so many to name and hard to just pick one. All of the black women before me that have fought so that I can have a better life - I am forever grateful. One that comes to mind in particular is civil rights activist and journalist, Myrlie Evers.
How did her influence change your life or inspire you?
Myrlie Evers husband was assassinated because of his activist role during the civil rights movement. After his death she continued to fight for change and has so many accomplishments. She helped secure money for the Nationals Women's Educational fund, the 1st female chair of the board of directors for the NAACP, and even delivered the invocation for President Obama at his second inauguration! Her journey just shows that the fight doesn't stop! We must use our voice and keep fighting for justice and never let up. I admire her perseverance and dedication.
What question would you want to ask her, if you could have the chance?
I would ask her how did she find joy through living through so much? Her husband was assassinated because he was a black man wanting equal rights; I would want to not only give her a hug but want to ask her what her thoughts are on what is going on in society now as we are still fighting for change.
Why is it essential to empower other women?
I think women are so strong and powerful and we have to lift each other up and support one another! We are stronger together, and I live by collaboration over competition. We have to cheer each other on, support each other's wins, and show out for each other when needed!
“Don’t let what you see around you dictate what your future looks like. Dream, dream even bigger, and make it happen for yourself!”
SHAY SWEENEY
Founder Sweenshots X Shay Moné Studio and Influencing in Color
What advice would you give to younger Black women today?
Believe in yourself and be comfortable in who you are! Many times we don't look how others want us to look, our hair is not what they deem to be acceptable, and the list goes on! We have heard it for so many generations that at times it's easy to believe that we will never make it and we don't know our worth. Well I'm here today to tell you that you have to believe in yourself, black is beautiful, and never let anyone tell you otherwise! Walk in power!
What is one thing you know now about being a female entrepreneur that you wish you had known earlier in your career?
I wish I would have known to just start! We often think that we can't do certain things until we are in a certain place in our lives. When the idea comes to mind, jot it down and come up with a plan. Don't wait! The only person often holding us back from doing things is the fear that we have for ourselves. I would have started my blogger journey earlier and started with the resources I had at the time. Don’t be afraid to start, and don't be afraid to fail and pivot! It's all part of the journey.
How do you hope younger Black women view you? What do you hope they can learn from your experience?
I always say that I hope that people see a petite black woman that has conquered so many things that are not normally done by people that look like me. I've modeled, I've been in ad campaigns for major brands, I've started businesses, I've finished grad school with kids and while pregnant. None of these things were things I ever saw anyone doing that looked like me because I was never the ideal person for those roles and was even the first in my immediate family to even get a masters degree. Don't let what you see around you dictate what your future looks like. Dream, dream even bigger, and make it happen for yourself!
What is a challenge you had to overcome when building your business/brand that speaks to your experience as a Black woman?
One of the challenges I've faced being a Black woman is often being overlooked and underpaid. Also, when working with brands it's not always about the money. I like to challenge the brands to see what commitments they have for change, what are their long term goals for working with women that look like me, and try to make sure I am not a check box for their campaign. By doing this I feel like my job is to push the needle, and keep the conversation going so that future black content creators can have an opportunity and not be overlooked. (Our Influencing in Color mission)
How do you prioritize self-love and care?
I have a super busy schedule and life! I make a point every morning to drink my hot water, read my devotional and Bible, and journal. I feel like this is my only time of the day where it's peaceful and it's part of protecting my mental state.
RANTI ONAYEMI
Founder, Ranti in Review
Ranti Onayemi wearing Vince Camuto Animal-Print Cropped Pants, Animal-Print Puff-Sleeve Blouse, and Aslee Two-Strap Mule
Name 3 traits that describe you:
I am resilient and tenacious, incredibly loyal and supportive of those I love, and a bit of an introvert (not shy).
As a Black woman, what are you most proud of?
I am proud of my Nigerian heritage and culture. Nigerian women, especially, are amazingly strong and resilient and I would like to think I inherited some of those wonderful traits. In my early Lagos upbringing, I was surrounded and supported by amazing female role models, which gave me a strong foundation and empowered me to dream big. Hailing from such a culture, one almost has no choice but to be independent and fearless.
What Black woman from history has been an inspiration to you? How did her influence change your life or inspire you?
My first, most profound and lasting inspiration is my Aunt Juliet. As a child, I remember she embodied everything that I wanted to be, poised, driven, stylish and accomplished. She was the first female entrepreneur I knew, I idolized her. She was very encouraging of my passions and dreams, even at an incredibly young age. Her presence in my life introduced me to fashion and nourished my creative side.
What question would you want to ask her if you could have the chance?
I can remember her seeming so confident and collected. Having worked in this frenetic and often overwhelming industry for some time now, I always wonder when she felt she had things figured out or when she felt a sense of stability. I must say, I am hoping to get there one day.
Why is it essential to empower other women?
I just think back to the many struggles I have faced and the many walls and barriers I’ve confronted along my journey into entrepreneurship and so I guess I feel a sense of duty. If there is anything I’m able to do to give the next generation even a small advantage or insight, I feel it is my responsibility. We are part of a continuum in that way, so I do what I can today, and the next generation passes this good will along. This industry is especially tough and unforgiving for young women of color, so I feel a special commitment and responsibility to help young black and brown women when I am able.
“I am proud of my Nigerian heritage and culture. Nigerian women, especially, are amazingly strong and resilient and I would like to think I inherited some of those wonderful traits.”
– RANTI ONAYEMI
Founder, Ranti in Review
What advice would you give to younger Black women today?
To be tenacious, never take no for an answer, and understand that you may have to reach out 100 times before you get that first opportunity. Be driven and most importantly, if you get an opportunity, put in the work and deliver!
What is one thing you know now about being a female entrepreneur that you wish you had known earlier in your career?
I was a bit naïve in thinking that working hard is all you must do to succeed and grow professionally. Along the way, I’ve certainly learned there are many other factors and dimensions that are out of your control. To be completely honest, as a black woman, I can remember seeing some friends and peers from different backgrounds seemingly find opportunities and success without facing many of the obstacles and barriers I’ve discovered along the way. Coming from a different culture, I was less aware of how impactful race can be while trying to carve my career path in this country. I hope we are all working to help level the professional playing field for black women and women of color.
How do you hope younger Black women view you? What do you hope they can learn from your experience?
I am not perfect. Social media has this way of painting that perfect picture, I am far from that. I have my struggles, I have my fair share of challenges professionally and in my day-to-day life. I have also had my share of failures. I hope I can be an example of someone who faces those challenges, never gives up, keeps pressing forward and does not let setbacks get in the way of the bigger picture.
What is a challenge you had to overcome when building your business/brand that speaks to your experience as a Black woman?
Knowing my worth and finding the self-confidence and conviction to ask for what I know I’m worth. Perhaps the hardest part of this is knowing when to walk away from an opportunity when you feel you’re not being appropriately valued, even if it is something you really want or are excited about.
How do you prioritize self-love and care?
This one is a work in progress. Don’t get me wrong, I do love myself, but this industry often feels like a 24-7 adventure, and sometimes this comes at the expense of prioritizing my health and wellness. From time to time, I do have to power down and take some time away from social media and work in general. It took me a while to realize and accept this, but today, this is essential to my mental health. For me, it is always important to pay close attention to what my mind and body are telling me.
This CCO Says There's No Longer One Way to Do This
Changing the game.
After working her way up at two other major fashion houses, Marie Mazelis came to Halston. Looking to introduce a generation of new Halstonites to the heritage brand that pretty much defined the '70s, Mazelis had her work cut out for her.
But what she knew was that dressing had fundamentally changed. Specifically, dressing for work had fun-da-mentally changed. And when she took control as Chief Creative Officer, she knew this had to be incorporated into Halston's offerings. That dressing had become interchangeable.
Read more from Mazelis on the why and how, fashion dress codes (there are none) and lasting power of Halston.
The business world (for most of us) is more casual than ever. In what ways have you seen a difference in the way women dress for work?
I think how we dress overall has become a lot more personal and much more relaxed. There isn’t just one acceptable way to dress for the office. Women no longer have two separate wardrobes – one for work and one for the weekend. They’ve become interchangeable. It’s all in the mix, it’s how you put things together.
What do women want from their work wear?
Comfort, ease, versatility... Also, I think, longevity… They want things that won’t be out of style next season. Today’s woman is very savvy, and she’s willing to invest in quality that will last. She is also looking for something unique and special, with attention to detail.
How has the way you dress for work changed over the course of your career?
Interesting question. Working in fashion, I was never really confined to a “dress code”, so the changes in how I dress for work have been mostly influenced by changes in my life. My days now are a whirlwind - filled with meetings on color, embroidery and prints… Fittings, and photo shoots, and sketch reviews... And when I’m not working, I’m out and about with my two boys. All this leaves little time for anything else, so I’ve had to simplify. I’ve developed a “uniform” of sorts. During the week I wear all black – all my favorite pieces that are easily interchangeable, which I update with new silhouettes each season. It’s one less decision to make before 9am.
In your last seven years at Halston how have you addressed the changing needs of women?
I have focused on creating designs that are lasting – both in quality and aesthetic. Halston brand is known for its timelessness and modernity. There are so many vintage Halston pieces that look as if they had been designed today. To make Halston glamour more accessible, our collections have expanded to include more casual pieces, giving options for dressing up or down, and thus offering more versatility and value. As I mentioned earlier, it’s all in how you put things together. Like when you wear a cocktail dress with flats, it feels more casual and relaxed, making it appropriate for day.
What are some major trends you're forecasting for this year?
It feels like everything is on trend. It’s all in play. So it’s more about having your own unique point of view.
How do we update our office basics?
For me acquiring a new piece of clothing is about the emotion it evokes. Dressing for work can become so routine, so mechanical in a way… I love resetting from time to time with something that makes me feel really happy when I reach for it in the morning. Invest in pieces that inspire you.
Can you recommend 6 easy adds to any closet?
An iconic Halston silhouette, this classic jumpsuit is an easy all-in-one outfit.
A great option from desk to dinner. Layer a jacket over it for day, put on some heels for night.
A fun piece to complete any look, whether with jeans or a cocktail dress, it adds a touch of glam.
Classic Halston, this timeless dress should be in every woman’s wardrobe.
One of my favorite tops this season. I love the delicate ruching detail and the flowy, effortless silhouette.
Gotta love a great slide! A summer must-have, wear these with anything for a relaxed, yet put together look.
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The RealReal Is Changing the Way Millennials Shop
Real Women, Real Style. Real freaking Real.
For the modern career woman, a wardrobe that works for her is clutch. If she also happens to have a Proenza Schouler lunch clutch for afternoon power meetings, all the better. But the woman who thinks she doesn’t have the salary to fund a Saint Laurent wardrobe, should think again. Because though you might not be in the position (yet) to ask for a promotion, you can give one to your wardrobe.
So how does one craft a closet that keeps up with fashion and doesn’t break the bank? It’s RealReal simple.
The RealReal is the must-shop luxury consignment site, offering the largest selection of pre-owned items across women's and men's fashion, fine jewelry, art, and home. With 4.5 million members, it's quite literally the real deal, it’s changing the way modern millennials are approaching fashion.
THE NEW, SMART WAY TO SPEND
Forget fast fashion, this is smart shopping. With items up to 90% off retail, the first thing you can do is fill your wardrobe with 7 key items that never go out of style.
For under $1,000 dollars you can nab these essentials for spring and summer: Frame Denim, Equipment Silk Button-Down, 3.1 Phillip Lim Straight Leg Pant, Stella McCartney Blazer, Elizabeth and James Long Vest, Loeffler Randall Textured Leather Ankle Boot, Raquel Allegra Tee.
These are basics that you will wind up replacing far less than those inexpensive items that tend to get ruined quickly.
We also tend to take better care of clothing that we know is worth more, and won’t fall apart in after a couple of wears. The bonus is, you won’t be playing host to a hoard of knock-off, inexpensive pieces taking up coveted space in your closet.
WHY IT MAKES THE MOST SENSE TO CONSIGN
The RealReal makes the consignment process so incredibly streamlined for a busy working woman. No lugging an old IKEA bag full of clothes you no longer want to a shop.
You can choose free in-home pickup or free shipping, and the turnaround is fast. Priced-to-sell, items are photographed and merchandised and typically sold within 3 days.
Which means you can:
GIVE YOUR BOSS SERIOUS WARDROBE ENVY
She might even start to wonder if she’s paying you too much. (She’s not.) Swapping out your clothes is like borrowing from a besties closet. If you replace two items per month, instead of stockpiling clothes you end up donating, you end up saving money by seemingly splurging.
Sellers receive up to 70% of sales, which means you can turn that right around and invest in a new piece. Like that Chanel Boy Bag you have both eyes firmly fixed on.
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