Fashion designer Paula Hian. (Credit: Paula Hian)
Dr. Jill Biden is a Fan of Her Timeless Styles
Paula Hian’s eponymous clothing line serves up classic pieces that are perfect for wearing to work, special occasions – and even the White House.
Since 1998, Paula Hian has been designing items for her own collection of clothing – Paula Hian – which now boasts some very well-known clients. After obtaining her fashion design degree from New York’s Fashion Institute of Technology, Hian went on to secure a number of accolades and awards – which ultimately helped bring the attention of celebrities and other such high-end clients to her collection – including the current FLOTUS. Today, the fashion designer has a flagship boutique in King of Prussia, Pennsylvania – though all of her clothes are designed in France. Hian is now seeking out new physical locations for displaying her classic pieces. When they’re not adorning dignitaries or being displayed in the world’s most famous museum, that is.
Here’s our lightly edited Q&A, from The Story Exchange 1,000+ Stories Project.
How is your business different from others in your industry?
In 2010, I began to knit my signature “woven” styles in France. This enabled me to create all my own luxury materials, as well as my own designs – most designers simply buy material from a textile mill and create from there.
Tell us about your biggest success so far.
Having a dress in a collection of The Louvre. While I was pursuing my post-graduate design degree at the Fashion Institute of Technology, I was selected to go to Paris to participate in “Concours International Des Jeunes Créateurs De Mode,” one of the world’s most prestigious international competitions for fashion students. I was awarded first prize for the U.S. in the competition. I couldn’t believe it. My winning dress was placed in the permanent collection of the Louvre – equally exciting!
Another huge success has been having Dr. Jill Biden as a customer. She loves our “Paula” pieces.
What is your top challenge and how have you addressed it?
Scaling up my business. I am trying to find more locations to showcase and sell my designs. Clients really prefer the feeling of being in the store, rather than shopping online.
Have you experienced any significant personal situations that affected your business decisions?
I had issues with a pattern-maker employee. This pushed me to go in a bit of a different direction – and ultimately led me to begin working with others in France.
What is your biggest tip for other startup entrepreneurs?
Know your purpose, follow your vision and always be determined. Never give up. There is no choice but to figure out how to handle whatever is presented to you.
How do you find inspiration on your darkest days?
I always feel inspired. I think I was just born like that. I don’t think anything would work for me if I had to ‘find’ inspiration.
What is your go-to song to get motivated on tough days?
“Better in Time” by Leona Lewis and “Ready for It” by Taylor Swift.
Who is your most important role model?
My mother. She is my guiding light, and a very strong and positive person.
Instagram: @PaulaHian
Facebook: @PaulaHian
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