Fashion Founders: Stacey Bendet of Alice + Olivia

Fashion Founders: Stacey Bendet of Alice + Olivia

By: Claire Watkiss 

Born and raised in New York, Stacey Bendet grew up around a father in the textile import business and was quickly interested in fashion. She founded her brand, Alice + Olivia, in 2002 on a quest to create the perfect pair of pants. She modified a pair of jeans to create a flattering silhouette that elongated the legs. When designer Lisa Kline saw her sporting the jeans, she ordered multiple sets and the business took off. Alice + Olivia was then an immediate success and can now be found online and in stores all over the world. 

The brand is positioned towards the modern woman, with the perfect mix of practical, sexy, and whimsical pieces for both everyday and special occasions. With the cohesive use of varying fabrics, prints, and colors, everyone seems to love what Bendet has created. Celebrities and public figures like Michelle Obama and Gigi Hadid are fans of the brand, showing that the pieces are perfect for every type of woman. Alice + Olivia now has collections including ready-to-wear, gowns, shoes, handbags, accessories, and eyewear. 

Bendet believes her brand is a company run by women, for women, and she wants to use it to empower women’s voices. 

Aside from the brand, Stacey is both the founder of Creatively, a networking hub for the creative industry, and a co-founder of the #ShareTheMicNow movement, created to help Black women speak their truth. She is actively involved in many philanthropic efforts and is a mother to three daughters. 

With the fashion industry rapidly growing, it is inspiring to see strong women who create empowering clothing and stand for important movements. 

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