Even if Norma Kamali doesn’t exist, it’s likely that you have seen her work.
Farrah Fawcett, a 77-year old fashion designer, has created some iconic pop culture moments throughout the years. These include Farrah Fawcett’s red pin-up bathing suits and the blue gown that sent Instagram wild after Sarah Jessica Parker’s memorable appearance in “And Just Like That …””.
Kamali always knew she wanted to lead a creative life — she just never imagined it would entail a career in fashion. CNBC Make It New York says Kamali, a native New Yorker, said that her heart was set on becoming a painter when she was growing up.
In the 1960s she studied illustration and art in New York City. She worked at Northwest Orient Airlines as an airline clerk. Every weekend, she flew to London roundtrip for $29 so that she could explore London’s lively art scene.
But she wasn’t just drawn to the buildings’ sprawling murals and neon pop art — she became enthralled with the outfits women wore in the streets of London: knee-high boots, mini-skirts and dresses with swirling patterns.
She recalls that she was “like a moth to flame” “I could feel it in my bones that I was a part this.”
Kamali felt free in London because of the clothes she wore, and wanted to share this joy with her Manhattan friends. Kamali began to fill her suitcase with clothing from overseas, especially vintage items from the 1930s or 1940s.
Kamali was able to find enough original pieces by the middle of her 60s and opened a shop. She opened her first boutique at 53rd Street in 1969 with the help of her husband. She began creating clothing for herself.
Kamali’s fashion empire has since outgrown the small basement boutique where she started building it — celebrities including Mindy Kaling, Heidi Klum, Christina Aguilera and Eva Longoria have worn her designs on magazine covers and red carpets across the globe.
Kamali offers her advice on how to build a career that is long-lasting and rewarding.
First, take care of you
“A strong sense of confidence makes success more likely — and there’s no better way to build your confidence than following a healthy lifestyle, or thinking about your sleep, diet and exercise as critical aspects of your everyday life.
“I learned to split when I was 65. My work has been made easier by challenging myself and trying new things. I also learned how to keep my discipline up until my goals were met.
It doesn’t matter whether you are learning how to make a nutritious meal, or taking up yoga, but it will help your mental health and your perspective on work. You will be more successful if you engage in activities that are good for your body, mind and spirit.
Failure is mandatory
