In Conversation with Ariel Kochbarski

Tell us about your background: 
I started in buying in NYC after unsuccessfully finding a job in the art world. I started at Saks Fifth Avenue in 2007 and my career took off from there. I eventually found myself in Los Angeles as a founding employee at 11 Honoré, the first plus size luxury e-comm site. Fast-forward to the pandemic and a lay-off; I pivoted to styling and creative consulting full time. I'm currently working on scaling my business and enjoying my freedom doing so.

What do you wish you’d known when you started out?

Many things but mostly I wish I had followed my instincts earlier on... I knew I had the creative gene, but I took the business route for a long time because I thought it was the "smart and right" thing to do.

Best career advice you've ever received?

Find out what differentiates you against others and become an expert in knowing your own value.

What leadership qualities are important to you?

Sense of humor, fairness, directness, and humbleness.

What has been the biggest challenge in your career so far? 

Recovering from two lay-offs (one in 2009 in NYC and the other in 2021 in LA).

And for fun, what is your favorite wardrobe staple?

Boxy crop tee by Alma & Rebels and R13 leather jeans.

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ariel-kochbarski-09a9a515/

Website: http://ofthemomnt.com/

Instagram: @ofthemomnt