When I left my career in tech to start my own fashion brand, ZIPPERLY, I knew I was taking a leap into the unknown. But what I didn’t realize was how much my years in Silicon Valley would shape my approach to an entirely different industry.
Two Worlds, One Vision
In tech, I thrived on innovation, speed, and problem-solving. The pace was relentless, and the mindset was always about “what’s next?” My days were filled with algorithms, scalability strategies, and app launches. Now, my days revolve around leather textures, artisan techniques, and creating pieces that tell a story. At first glance, these two industries couldn’t be more different. Yet, I’ve discovered surprising overlaps that continue to guide me.
The Power of Storytelling
In tech, your product needs a story. Why does it exist? Who is it for? What problem does it solve? In fashion, that same principle applies—but it’s even more personal. At ZIPPERLY, every handbag is a blend of my Brazilian, Italian, and American heritage. It’s not just a bag; it’s a statement of identity. My experience crafting compelling narratives for apps now helps me connect with my customers through our brand’s story.
Scaling Craftsmanship
In tech, I was always focused on scaling—reaching as many users as possible without compromising quality. Translating that mindset to fashion meant asking myself: How do I bring the craftsmanship of Italian and Brazilian artisans to more people while staying true to their meticulous, hands-on process? It’s not easy, but tech taught me to embrace constraints as opportunities for creative solutions.
Customer-Centric Design
Tech taught me to listen to users obsessively. Every app update was driven by feedback. Now, I apply the same principle to ZIPPERLY. From bright linings that make items easier to find to our one-year free repair policy, every decision is rooted in making life simpler and more joyful for our customers. The main difference is how much longer it takes to implement these improvements in fashion.
Building a Brand and Spreading the Word
Creating a brand and spreading the word about it isn’t so different across industries. Whether I was working on an app or a handbag collection, the strategy remained the same: tell a compelling story, know your audience, and meet them where they are. In tech, I built communities around products, used data to refine messaging, and leveraged digital tools to scale. Now, I do the same with ZIPPERLY—using platforms like Instagram to connect with my audience, analyzing engagement to see what resonates, and fostering word-of-mouth through referral programs and personalized touches.
The entrepreneurial tools I developed in Silicon Valley—creating a buzz, getting people talking, and building loyalty—are just as effective in fashion. Whether it’s designing a sleek user interface or a stunning handbag, the goal is the same: to make people fall in love with your product and feel proud to share it with others.
Embracing Slow Fashion
The biggest shift? Slowing down. In tech, speed is king. But in fashion, there’s beauty in taking time. I’ve learned to appreciate the slower rhythms of Italian artisans who pour decades of expertise into every stitch. It’s a lesson in patience and respect—one that has reshaped not just my business, but my outlook on life.
Building a Network Outside the Norm
Starting a fashion brand in San Francisco—a city known for tech, not fashion—has been its own challenge. Without the built-in networks of New York or Milan, I’ve had to get creative in building relationships, finding collaborators, and connecting with buyers. But here’s the thing: innovation isn’t just for tech. It’s been the cornerstone of how I’ve carved out a space for ZIPPERLY.
The Road Ahead
Transitioning from tech to fashion hasn’t been easy, but it’s been deeply rewarding. I’ve traded algorithms for handbags, and in the process, I’ve found a way to merge my love for technology, culture, and craftsmanship. My hope is that ZIPPERLY reflects not just my journey, but the beauty of bringing different worlds together.
If you’re considering a big career change or trying to bridge two seemingly different industries, take it from me: the lessons you’ve already learned will surprise you. Sometimes, stepping into the unknown is how you truly discover yourself.
What’s been the most surprising lesson from your career or life changes? I’d love to hear your story.