Spotlight: Hillary Taymour

“Fuck that.” Those are two of the words that came from the creator of Collina Strada, Hillary Taymor, a blunt and unapologetic acknowledgement of the fashion industry’s persistent double standards. Her comment wasn’t just a passing remark; it was a response to the reality of the industry and how they continue to look down on women, often forcing them to work harder to earn the same respect, position, and influence as their male counterparts. Even with the idea of the world progressing in terms of gender equality and women in fashion, they continue to face systematic barriers.

Collina Strada, her New York–based fashion label, is known for its vibrant, chaotic aesthetic and deep commitment to sustainability and social change—challenging conventions not just in fashion, but in the culture surrounding it.

Just last week, Hillary recounted attending a meeting where she had the opportunity to meet with four of the “world’s best creative directors.” As the conversation unfolded, one detail stood out amongst the rest: she was the only woman in the room aside from the waitress. It was a stark and unsurprising reminder of the imbalance in the fashion industry as women are still underrepresented. According to PwC from 2019, there are “fewer women CEOs in fashion than in aerospace or finance industries.” Although many of them are a part of retail or fashion, only around 12.5% are fashion CEOs and 26% hold fashion Board seats. For Hillary, this remains a harsh reality that she pushes through with resilience and transparency. Through Collina Strada, she has built a place of her own, cultivating a community that not only helps to make her visions come to life but solidify her place in an industry that isn’t always so welcoming.

Her work is bold, unique, sustainable, and rooted in authenticity as she stays true to herself and her brand. Some may even refer to it as wild or eccentric, but that’s what makes it stand out. Whether it’s chaotic prints, various silhouettes, or casting that defies convention, Hillary makes it clear that she’s not here to blend in, and she refuses to play by rules that limit her creativity. What’s particularly intriguing is how she develops new ideas and designs, which starts with a simple yet unique principle of creating clothes that she herself wants to wear. In fact, she has stated that she exclusively wears her brand and nothing else. Beyond that, Hillary approaches fashion through a “woman’s gaze” rather than a “man’s gaze,” designing clothes that will empower women to feel “confident” and “sexy.”

Despite all the challenges that women face, including herself, Hillary continues to grow and expand her brand with each passing day. She even goes as far as to say that everyday is the “new big break” for her. Her brand is proof of how smaller woman-owned independent businesses can create a difference, not only in the fashion world, but also to women in any industry. As Hillary puts it, when you believe in yourself and remain committed to the message you stand for, you’ll naturally be able to find your community and connect with likeminded people.