Fashion & Footwear

Fashion & FootwearDesigner-1987-2016.

Rosemary had a dynamic and eventful career in the fashion industry during her time in Manhattan's Garment District. She began her journey as a fashion designer in 1987, specializing in knitwear. Despite not having studied knitwear at her Alma Mater, she quickly landed her first job in the field. Unfortunately, her initial role was short-lived due to a company-wide layoff, but she didn't let that setback deter her.
Rosemary's resilience led her to a new opportunity as a paid intern at MTV, where she worked as a wardrobe stylist and learned basic makeup artistry. Her skills were put to use on notable figures in the music industry, including Kurt Loader, Chris Connolly, and even Robert Plant of Led Zeppelin.
Subsequently, Rosemary transitioned to the position of Assistant Designer in the Moderate dress market. Following the departure of the head designer, she took on a significant role, designing under the supervision of the merchandiser for two years. Her innovative approach to fashion design, focusing on creating high-end looks at moderate price points, set her apart in the industry, although it did draw criticism from the sales team due to the perceived competition with higher-end labels.
Her commitment to ethical practices in the fashion industry is evident in her avoidance of knock-offs or stolen designs, something that would later gain attention from prominent figures like Vogue editor Anna Wintour.
Ultimately, Rosemary made the decision to leave the Garment Industry and pursue her own designs. She found stability as a bartender at the Rainbow Room, which provided her with health insurance and a steady income. This allowed her the flexibility to focus on her true passion of creating and selling her own fashion creations.
Rosemary's story highlights her determination, creativity, and ability to navigate the challenges of the fashion world while staying ahead of industry trends. Her experiences reflect a unique journey that contributed to her personal and professional growth.

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Painting Peter Fox Shoes, 2006-2008.

Rosemary's passion for repurposing, upcycling, and painting allowed her to turn soiled silk wedding shoes into stunning works of art, making them saleable and profitable for the Peter Fox Shoes company. This not only added a new profit margin but also expanded the appeal of the shoes to a broader audience beyond brides.
Her ability to turn white silk wedding shoes into exquisite pieces of art attracted commissions from people who admired her work. Rosemary's solo exhibit at the store and at another venue in Chelsea were a success, showcasing the value of her artistry and creativity. Rosemary’s former employer was all too pleased. Mr. Fox wrote: “STUNNING! Your shoes should be on display at MOMA.”

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Fashion & Footwear

Painting Peter Fox Shoes, 2006-2008.

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