Women in Power: Gabriela Hearst’s Mission to Empower Through Fashion and Craftsmanship

With innovative designs like the iconic “vagina dress” and a commitment to artisan craftsmanship, Hearst’s brand champions women’s empowerment and sustainability in the fashion industry.

Gabriela Hearst, a visionary designer, has made waves in the fashion industry with her dedication to women’s empowerment and sustainability. At the recent WWD x FN x Beauty Inc 50 Women in Power conference in New York City, Hearst shared her journey of creating pieces that not only make a statement but also embody her deep love and respect for women.

The Iconic “Vagina Dress”

The moment that sparked widespread attention came when actress Gillian Anderson requested a gown for the Golden Globes, leading to the creation of what has since been dubbed the “vagina dress.” Anderson’s voice message to Hearst articulated her vision of incorporating yonis, or vulvas, into the design. Hearst embraced the challenge, stating, “I think we need more of them in the world. I’m all for it, but what’s most important is that we have to do it in a beautiful way.”

This gown, embroidered with intricate floral designs, was not just a fashion statement; it symbolized a celebration of female anatomy and a push for sex positivity. Hearst’s confidence stemmed from her past work, including a sweater that featured ovaries, making her feel well-equipped to tackle such a provocative concept.

Empowerment Through Craftsmanship

Since launching her namesake brand in 2015, Hearst has woven her philosophy of empowerment into every collection. Inspired by influential women throughout history, such as Surrealist artist Leonora Carrington and pioneering architect Eileen Gray, she aims to create designs that resonate with strong, independent women. “I have a true love for women,” Hearst explained. “The biggest compliment I get is when a woman says to me, ‘I had this meeting and I felt so good in your suit.’”

Each collection is a tribute to a powerful woman, illustrating Hearst’s commitment to showcasing female strength and individuality. Most recently, she has drawn inspiration from Marija Gimbutas, a trailblazing Lithuanian archaeologist who challenged conventional beliefs about women in society. Hearst affectionately refers to these women as “witches,” celebrating their out-of-the-box thinking and courage.

Commitment to Sustainability and Community

In addition to empowering women, Hearst’s brand prioritizes sustainability by collaborating with artisans in her native Uruguay and Bolivia. Through initiatives like Manos del Uruguay, which aims to keep women in their communities rather than migrating to urban areas, Hearst fosters both economic empowerment and community development. “It’s essential that any brand in the world needs to understand that we need to employ others because there’s a reality that we’re all living,” she said, emphasizing the significance of supporting local artisans.

Hearst’s efforts also extend to helping women overcome personal challenges. Many artisans she collaborates with have faced domestic abuse, and by providing them with fair wages, she helps them gain financial independence and a voice in their communities. “When you hear the stories that a lot of these women were victims of domestic abuse and the moment they start earning more money than their partners, then the abuse stops,” she shared.

Advocacy and Vision for the Future

Gabriela Hearst is not just a designer; she is a vocal advocate for women in leadership, expressing her support for Vice President Kamala Harris to run for president. “For me to not speak out as being a mother and a woman, it feels not right,” she stated, underlining her belief in the importance of female representation in politics.

When asked if her commitment to empowering women has become a selling point for her brand, Hearst responded, “I always believe people come to you because of the desirability… if you can weave in the values, your good intentions then even better because this empowers.” She articulates a vision where fashion can transcend mere aesthetics, connecting consumers with the ethics and craftsmanship behind the products they choose.

Through her innovative designs and community-focused approach, Gabriela Hearst continues to redefine what it means to empower women in the world of fashion, making her an influential figure in both the industry and beyond.

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