In Conversation with Julian Randall
Tell us about your background:
I am a writer and fashion scholar from Dallas, Texas. I am also a Ph.D. student and Teaching Assistant at The University of Texas at Austin’s Stan Richards School of Advertising & Public Relations. My current research interests primarily lie at the intersection of luxury branding, consumer behavior and consumer culture. Prior to joining UT-Austin, I studied men’s fashion media and representation at Kent State University, where I received a Master of Fashion Industry Studies. During my time at KSU, I had the opportunity to teach “Fashion Visuals” as well as work for a boutique PR agency as a culture writer. Throughout my undergraduate studies at Texas Tech University, I worked as a fashion writer for Study Breaks and Lubbock’s boutique luxury retailer, Drest by Scott Malouf’s.
More recent work includes collaborating with social media pages such as Black Fashion Archive, in addition to consulting on various humanities projects for organizations. I am incredibly passionate about diversity, equity, and inclusion within the fashion system. My aim is to utilize my research to potentially influence the way luxury firms approach DEI strategy and marketing efforts. I describe my personal style as elevated casual and credit my grandparents for my love of apparel and accessories. In my free time, I enjoy traveling, shopping, trying new restaurants, and collecting books. More importantly, I value family and the pursuit of personal development.
What do you wish you’d known when you started out?
The main thing I wished I'd known when I started out was that I can create my own opportunities. I think had I focused on creating something of my own instead of wishing an institution would give me an opportunity, I'd be in a different place. Shifting my focus to creating my own opportunities has been a game changer!
Best career advice you've ever received?
The best career advice I've ever received was to do your research, be on time and be nice to everyone.
What leadership qualities are important to you?
My Gen Z is probably peaking when I say this, but empathy is crucial. In my experience, anytime a leader has first shown an interest in my humanity, it ended up being an amazing relationship and I produced my best work. Another leadership quality that I value is having great interpersonal communication skills. Nothing more inspiring to me than being a great communicator!
What has been the biggest challenge in your career so far?
The biggest challenge in my career so far has been finding my "thing." I'm skilled at lots of things, but haven't quite landed anywhere yet. It feels like a gift and a curse.
And for fun, what is your favorite wardrobe staple?
I absolutely love a crisp, white button down! Whenever I wear a white button down with light denim pants, I feel unstoppable.
LinkedIn URL: https://www.linkedin.com/in/randalljulian/
Website: https://www.julianrandall.com/
Instagram: @itsjulianrandall
