Breaking Barriers, Building Empires: How Women in Fashion Are Shaping the Future
- Apr 9
- 2 min read
By Kenchen Bharwani
The fashion industry is a multi-billion-dollar powerhouse, but behind its glamorous facade lies a network of women who form its backbone. From factory floors to boardrooms, women are driving change, challenging norms, and rewriting the rules. As someone who has built a career in the off-price fashion sector, a space often dominated by rapid shifts and relentless competition, I have seen firsthand the power of resilience, creativity, and networking in shaping the industry’s future.
The Silent Architects of Fashion
Fashion is often perceived as an industry run by designers and CEOs, but the reality is that women at every level fuel its operations. They are the garment workers meticulously sewing each stitch, the entrepreneurs sourcing surplus inventory to make fashion accessible, and the consultants strategizing ways to balance cost and sustainability. Despite their contributions, many remain undervalued, underrepresented, and underpaid. This imbalance is precisely what needs to change.
From the Margins to the Mainstream
When I first entered the off-price fashion sector, I noticed a common trend where women were crucial in ensuring production, negotiation, and logistics ran smoothly, yet they lacked decision-making power. I made it my mission to shift this narrative. By leveraging my network, I connected female entrepreneurs, factory owners, and buyers to create opportunities that uplifted them. Today, women are no longer waiting for a seat at the table; they are building their own.
The Power of Sustainability and Smart Business
Sustainability is no longer a trend; it’s a necessity. Women in the fashion industry are spearheading efforts to make sustainability mainstream whether by pioneering ethical sourcing, repurposing unsold stock, or advocating for transparency in the supply chain. In my career, I have focused on sustainable solutions that not only minimize waste but also empower workers. When we prioritize sustainability, we create a ripple effect that benefits both people and the planet.
Networking: The Game-Changer for Women in Fashion
One of the most valuable lessons I’ve learned is that networking isn’t just about collecting contacts, it’s about fostering meaningful relationships. Women in fashion have historically faced barriers when it comes to accessing capital, partnerships, and high-level decision-making circles. By creating strong networks, we unlock doors for mentorship, funding, and collaborations that can change the trajectory of businesses and careers.
In my own journey, I’ve connected with female-led businesses in Pakistan, Ethiopia, and beyond, helping them navigate the complexities of global trade. These partnerships prove that when women support women, entire industries transform.
The Future Is Ours to Shape
The future of fashion isn’t just about trends, it’s about who is leading the conversation. Women are no longer confined to supporting roles; they are the visionaries, strategists, and disruptors redefining how fashion operates.
To the women navigating their paths in fashion: Own your space. Break the barriers. Build your empire. The industry needs your voice, your ideas, and your leadership. And remember, success is not just about personal victories; it’s about lifting others as you rise.
Connect With Kenchen
@kanchanbharwani
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