Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Anje Rogers-Pearson. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Anje, thanks so much for taking the time to share your insights and lessons with us today. We’re particularly interested in hearing about how you became such a resilient person. Where do you get your resilience from?
My resilience is fueled by the belief that the only thing that surpasses failure is the effort to overcome it. Transitioning from entertainment PR to the retail sector has been a significant change. There have been moments when I’ve felt overwhelmed, yet I never allow myself to succumb to defeat. At times, I need to pause, assess the situation realistically, and strategize on how to move forward effectively.
Appreciate the insights and wisdom. Before we dig deeper and ask you about the skills that matter and more, maybe you can tell our readers about yourself?
Leveraging my background as a celebrity publicist and my deep-rooted passion for shoes, I took a significant leap into the luxury fashion world by creating Rogers Pearson. This venture marks a new chapter following my initial foray into the industry with Coco Blue Shoes, a fast-fashion brand I started during the pandemic. Coco Blue Shoes carved out its niche over two years, yet it faced the daunting task of competing with fast fashion giants like Fashion Nova, which offered similar styles but at much lower prices. By July 2022, I faced the tough call to close Coco Blue Shoes, which allowed me the space to introspect and realign my career and entrepreneurial visions.
This period of reflection reignited my aspiration to craft a label that epitomizes luxury and artisanship in fashion. With renewed vigor and a clear vision, I launched Rogers Pearson in September 2022, embarking on a mission to blend my love for exquisite footwear with the timeless allure of luxury fashion. Join me on this exciting journey as we explore the art of fine fashion together.
There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?
My background in PR has definitely given me a unique advantage in shaping the Rogers Pearson brand. Venturing into the luxury shoe market, with its distinct challenges, has been a thrilling journey, especially transitioning from my experiences in entertainment and fast fashion. It’s somewhat akin to a renowned actor taking on the role of directing a blockbuster – it requires a shift in how you’re perceived and how you approach your craft.
Stepping into the designer’s shoes (no pun intended!) has introduced a fresh, exhilarating set of challenges. It’s been about more than just designing; it’s about creatively positioning the brand, executing engaging marketing strategies, and infusing a relentless passion into every step to stand out in the vibrant luxury shoe sector.
Embarking on this venture hasn’t been just a challenge; it’s been an invigorating adventure. Establishing a distinctive presence in the glamorous world of luxury footwear is as demanding as it is rewarding. This business demands resilience and strength, as it’s full of obstacles. But with determination and a robust spirit, navigating this industry becomes not just a journey of endurance but a rewarding voyage of discovery and achievement.
Okay, so before we go we always love to ask if you are looking for folks to partner or collaborate with?
There’s a prevalent idea that teaming up with celebrities or influencers is a surefire way to amplify a brand. However, this isn’t entirely accurate. While such collaborations can enhance brand visibility, they don’t necessarily guarantee a surge in sales, unless you’re partnering with industry giants like Beyoncé, Kim Kardashian, or Taylor Swift.
I find a different kind of collaboration more appealing and effective – partnering with fellow designers. In particular, working with Sergio Hudson would be my dream collaboration. Partnering with another designer like him allows for an audience exchange that’s more targeted and relevant. Such collaborations foster a shared engagement with people who are genuinely interested in what we create, offering a more strategic and impactful way to expand our reach and connect with the right demographic. This approach isn’t just about getting noticed; it’s about creating meaningful connections and fostering growth in the most authentic way possible.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://rogerspearson.co
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/rogerspearsonofficial
- Facebook: https://facebook.com/rogerspearsonofficial
- Linkedin: https://linkedin.com/rogerspearsonoffical
Image Credits
Claudio Robles for Rebellion Agency
