Emma Grede has emerged as one of the most influential entrepreneurs in the fashion industry today. Known for her bold vision and commitment to inclusivity, Emma has transformed how brands approach sizing and representation as co-founder and CEO of Good American and a founding partner of SKIMS. Her work challenges traditional fashion norms and inspires change.
Early Life and Career Beginnings
Emma Grede was born on September 23, 1982, in East London. Raised by a single mother alongside three sisters, Emma learned resilience and determination from a young age. To support her family, she worked various jobs, including delivering newspapers at just 12 years old. Although she attended the London College of Fashion, financial difficulties forced her to leave school early. These early challenges did not deter her ambition; instead, they shaped her drive to succeed.
Emma’s career began in event production and marketing, where she founded ITB Worldwide, a talent management and entertainment marketing agency. Under her leadership, ITB experienced rapid growth and secured partnerships with top fashion houses, including Dior and Calvin Klein. This experience provided Emma with valuable insights into the fashion world and laid the groundwork for her entrepreneurial ventures.
Founding Good American
In 2016, Emma Grede co-founded Good American with reality TV star Khloé Kardashian. The goal was simple yet revolutionary: to create a fashion brand that celebrates all body types. Good American became one of the first major brands to offer inclusive sizing, starting from size 00 up to 24. This approach challenged the often-narrow beauty standards prevalent in fashion and empowered consumers who had long been overlooked.
Good American’s success proved there was a strong market for inclusive, stylish clothing. The brand’s focus on body positivity and diversity has made it a leader in the industry, earning Emma praise for pushing boundaries.
Expanding with SKIMS and Safely
Emma’s influence expanded further in 2019 when she became a founding partner of SKIMS, co-founded with Kim Kardashian and her husband, Jens Grede. SKIMS offers shapewear and loungewear designed to fit and flatter a wide range of body types. The brand’s success has been driven by its commitment to comfort, innovation, and inclusivity, which has helped reshape the shapewear market.
In 2021, Emma co-founded Safely, a plant-based cleaning brand with Kris Jenner. Safely focuses on creating effective, eco-friendly cleaning products free from harsh chemicals. This venture reflects Emma’s commitment to sustainability and healthy living.
Media Presence and Advocacy
Emma Grede’s impact reaches beyond business. She broke new ground as the first Black woman guest investor on ABC’s Shark Tank, where she supports startups and entrepreneurs. Her presence on the show amplifies her role as a mentor and advocate in the business community.
Emma also chairs the Fifteen Per Cent Pledge, an initiative that encourages major retailers to allocate at least 15% of their shelf space to Black-owned businesses. This pledge addresses systemic inequalities in retail and promotes economic inclusion.
Balancing Business and Family
Emma lives in Los Angeles with her husband, Jens Grede, and their four children. Despite her busy schedule, she prioritises family life and often speaks about the importance of balancing work and motherhood. Her ability to manage multiple roles adds to her appeal as a role model for many aspiring entrepreneurs.
Conclusion
Emma Grede story is one of perseverance, innovation, and leadership. From humble beginnings in East London to becoming a powerful force in fashion and business, she has reshaped the industry’s approach to inclusivity. Through Good American, SKIMS, and her advocacy work, Emma has proven that success comes from embracing diversity and challenging the status quo.
Her journey inspires many, showing that with passion and purpose, it’s possible to create meaningful change. Emma Grede continues to push boundaries, proving that fashion can be both stylish and inclusive and business can be both profitable and socially responsible.
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