Fiercely Fashion: The Unfolding of an Underdog's Dream

Vera Wang was born in 1949 in New York to immigrants from Shanghai. Her journey began in the graceful world of figure skating, where she aspired for Olympic fame. Despite her immense talent and dedication and competing in the 1968 and 1969 US National Championships, her Olympic dreams never came to fruition.

She did have an early interest and exposure in fashion starting at a young age when she would attend fashion shows with her mother in New York City. At 23, she became one of the youngest editors in Vogue magazine's history. Despite her evident talent and relentless work ethic, she encountered consistent barriers. Seventeen years after joining Vogue and being overlooked for the position of editor-in-chief, Wang departed to take up her first role at a luxury fashion label. However, her quest for the perfect wedding dress led her to discover her true passion lay in bridal fashion.

As she approached her late 30s, a period when many would consider settling, Vera took a bold step. Faced with frustration over the lack of bridal wear that matched her unique taste while planning her wedding, she embarked on a daring venture: designing her wedding dress.

This decision marked the inception of the Vera Wang brand. Launching a business in the fiercely competitive fashion world was no easy feat. Vera faced skepticism and numerous challenges, with many doubting her transition from a fashion editor to a designer. She battled financial constraints, stiff market competition, and the daunting task of establishing a brand from the ground up.

However, Vera's unyielding spirit and keen sense of elegance propelled her forward. She turned her challenges into opportunities, and her uncertainties into creative designs. Her wedding gowns, characterized by a blend of modern innovation and timeless grace, started attracting attention from celebrities and everyday brides alike

Gradually, Vera Wang's name became a symbol of luxury in bridal wear. Her empire has expanded beyond bridal gowns to include haute couture, fragrances, and home décor. Each milestone she achieved was a testament to her enduring persistence... a victory against her detractors.

Coming into a new environment can be anxiety-provoking and intimidating. It does require many traits, some of which may not be obvious at first. Having an attitude of joy, flexibility, and an open mind can be very helpful when in a leadership position. It can be an opportunity to make a large impact in between the challenges that may inhibit some.

I had a conversation with Dorri McWhorter, President & and CEO of the Chicago YMCA. Dorri is committed to leading her team and the organization with joy, authenticity, flexibility, and a “yes” mindset. These traits, in addition to her training and longtime career as an accountant, empower all Y team members to better serve hundreds of thousands of individuals each year throughout Chicagoland and across the Midwest.

Watch the full episode of Underdog Untold, a show where I interview successful people who will share their adversity in an open conversation.

Many of us want to be joyful, have more joy in our lives, and allow joy to play a bigger part, even when we don't feel that way. It doesn't have to be only a feeling but it can be a lifestyle from the result of actions that we take today.

3 ways to give ourselves a joyful lifestyle:

1. Practice Gratitude: Regularly acknowledge and appreciate the good in your life. I have found a few minutes of reflection or writing down a few things I am grateful for in the morning or evening has been helpful and unexpectedly... peaceful.
2. Connect with Others: Spend quality time with family and friends. We all need our own space and time but spending in-person time can give us a boost of energy and bring more joy in our lives.
3. Pursue Your Passions: Engage in activities that fulfill and excite you, like yoga, reading, or mentoring. These 3 activities elevate my mood but you should try to find the things that do it for YOU.