In Conversation with Rebecca Cea

Jun 1

Tell us about your background:

I started my career in fashion taking a big risk when I was in my mid-20’s and moved to New York City without any contacts, any fashion degree, or even a place to stay with the aspiration of breaking into the industry. Fast forward 10 years and since then I have worked in Fabric R&D and Product Development at DVF, Oscar de la Renta, MONSE, and Marchesa in NYC, and I am currently based in London working for Casablanca Paris. I have also been fortunate to travel to various global cities such as Paris, Tokyo, and Milan for fabric research and international fabric shows.

I am originally from Jacksonville, Florida and graduated with a psychology degree from the University of North Florida, quite a contrast from what I do now but I always deeply admired the world of luxury fashion. I recall being fascinated by how clothes were made and I would buy Vogue magazines and daydream of being part of the industry.

My first opportunity was at DVF, via the power of networking I was able to get an internship, and I really consider this experience the equivalent of my “fashion degree” since it really set my foundation and allowed me to identify the area where I excelled & became passionate about my true calling. I ultimately got hired full-time at DVF as a Fabric Coordinator. Eventually, I received an offer to join Oscar de la Renta which was a pivotal part of my career in luxury fashion. Thanks to my experience at ODLR I was able to further expand my knowledge and this led to becoming part of the premiere team at MONSE.
One of my career aspirations has been to work in Europe, and I was extremely lucky to work at Marchesa on its Couture line which gave me a preview of having a creative director with a very European style.

My 10 years of experience in New York allowed me to prepare for what would be my next challenge. I moved to London about a year ago and I'm currently working at Casablanca Paris and was able to see my work in Paris Fashion Week for the first time which felt extremely surreal since it feels like yesterday that I was buying Vogue and dreaming of creating these shows.

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

I wish I would have known that hard work, talent, experience, and drive are more important than having a fashion degree. When I started, I was self-conscious that I did not go to a prestigious school or that I did not study fashion and felt that I was behind. In hindsight that probably pushed me to work harder at the early start of my career and looking back it’s really what set me apart and helped me succeed. I have also been fortunate to work with various creative directors and was encouraged to learn that not all of them went to fashion school which gave me the confidence that I could have a successful career in the industry.

Best career advice you've ever received?

One of the most talented creative directors I have ever worked with told me to “train my eye”. At one point in my career, I was considering whether I should get a Masters Degree to gain more technical knowledge. This person told me that I could learn everything on the job and that it was up to me what I got out of it. Ultimately, as a creative person my eye, talent, and passion were much more impactful than going back to school.

What leadership qualities are important to you?

I've always admired the quality of staying true to your vision and your craft. There are so many distractions, so many differing opinions as you build your career or company, and if you can stay true to your vision thoughout it all, then this shows your tenacity and will power to withstand anything.

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

I had a very unique opportunity to work on the fabric research and development of both Oscar de la Renta and MONSE for their Fall 17 collections. At the time the current creative directors were returning to ODLR and I was working at MONSE, their personal brand. I managed a maternity cover while keeping all responsibilities at MONSE. For someone in Fabric R&D this is very challenging to do. With the truly incredible support of both teams, I was extremely proud of the end result. It really pushed me to think outside the box, given that each brand has a different vision. I was able to train my eye to split the two and ultimately produce beautiful fabrics for both collections.

And for fun, what is your favorite wardrobe staple?

A little black dress from Oscar de la Renta. I have worn it for almost all occasions, including dates, interviews, and dinners with friends.

LinkedIn URL: linkedin.com/in/rebeccacea

Website: www.casablancaparis.com

Instagram: @rebeccacea__