Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Chloe’ Allison. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Hi Chloe’, so excited to talk about all sorts of important topics with you today. The first one we want to jump into is about being the only one in the room – for some that’s being the only person of color or the only non-native English speaker or the only non-MBA, etc Can you talk to us about how you have managed to be successful even when you were the only one in the room that looked like you?
Being the only one in the room that looks like me isn’t anything new, I can recall numerous occasions from childhood to now where I have been the only African American in the room. Whether it be art classes, equestrian lessons, or a board meeting, it happens. Even being in diverse schools (which my parents always made sure I was) I can remember looking around in a handful or classes and thinking wow I’m the only person of color in here this hour!
With those experiences comes early lessons on how to be effective/ successful when you find yourself in that environment. I have learned that I’m immediately effective because I bring a different vantage point, not only do I get to hear the people in the room and form an understanding of where they’re coming from, but I can go outside of that space and know what a broader group is looking for. Whether it be people of color or women, and that always brings success when developing a new product and marketing it for everyone.
Let’s take a small detour – maybe you can share a bit about yourself before we dive back into some of the other questions we had for you?
I’m the President/ Design Director of Alli.C a children’s design house, that uses luxuriously soft fabrics sourced from around the world to create exclusive heirloom quality clothing & accessories. We design timeless silhouettes with modern details. For parents who value style and comfort for their child’s delicate skin.
We are known for our luxuriously soft silk-lined baby blankets and hats. And are proud to say that all our manufacturing is done in the USA. Also, we just launched a new baby clothing collection for sizes newborn to 6 months and girls 6 months to 3T! You must check us out at www.loveallic.com and please join our mailing list and share with others. We would love to have you as an Alli.C Insider.
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?
Looking back, I would say CAD skills (Illustrator, Photoshop, Gerber AccuMark etc.) keep them up to date and always play around with them you may figure out a short cut or new effect that will make your job easier. Next, I would say be open to other opportunities, I started out wanting to be a wedding dress designer took a class in children’s apparel fell in love and never looked back. Lastly become a student of marketing because no matter what form of art you go into, you’ll have to let people know it exist to be able to make a living off your work.
Before we go, any advice you can share with people who are feeling overwhelmed?
When I feel overwhelmed, I take a yoga class, play a game on my phone, or go somewhere to get out of my work environment. Sometimes you just need to walk away for a minute and take a mental break even when you’re doing something you love.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.loveallic.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/love_alli.c/
- Other: Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/loveallic/
