Conversations with Bailey Parker

Today we’d like to introduce you to Bailey Parker.

Hi Bailey, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today.
For me, it all started in September 2015, during my eighth-grade year.

Everyone has had or has heard of trips that have changed people’s lives, for the good or for the bad. Well, I used to hear these stories and dream of my travels around the world, eagerly awaiting my own. Little did I know that a short weekend trip up the east coast to New York City would become that trip of a lifetime.

As many people know, middle school is notorious for being tough, but for me, I can honestly say that it was a pretty low point in my life. At the time, I was so lost and had such a weak sense of self that I felt stuck, almost as though I were going nowhere. Thankfully, I had an escape from this reality when I was offered the chance to visit New York City for my 14th birthday.

Upon my arrival, I was instantly reminded of all the reasons why I love New York City. The short cab ride from Laguardia to Bergdorf’s, which most people take for granted, became my sightseeing tour. Through the open cab window, I watched the hustle and bustle of the city that never sleeps. The air felt warm and there was a light breeze, signaling the change from Summer into fall. The honking of the car horns, blaring music, and civilian voices merged into one, becoming the symphony of New York.

While some would be overwhelmed, I was calm, almost exhilarated. There was, however, something different. It was in Bergdorf’s where I discovered that I was in the fashion capital of the world during New York Fashion Week.

All the chaos and glamour surrounding this reputable event fascinated me, and I could feel inspiration spark from within. From that week forward, I was determined to educate myself on the industry and work my way up so that one day, I would be back. I started by watching an array of fashion documentaries and films, following the top fashion bloggers/influencers/editors and designers on social media, taking sewing lessons and fashion illustration classes, analyzing fashion shows, and the list goes on.

I also knew that in order for me to learn, I had to fully immerse myself in the industry by working in a variety of distinct roles. In high school, I expanded my retail and social media experience by working at two high-end boutiques, Vermillion and Gena Chandler; a vintage clothing store, House of Landor; and a boutique chain, South Moon Under. I then furthered my experience in communications by interning at two local public relations firms, Eckel & Vaughan, and Mary Beth Public Relations.

After graduating, I moved to Poughkeepsie, NY to attend Marist College, but have since transferred to the Fashion Insititute of Technology (FIT) in Manhattan. This past February, I had a full-circle moment and was not only offered the opportunity to work during New York Fashion Week but I was also invited to attend three shows.

I guess when people say that they had the “trip of a lifetime” they really do mean it because this trip truly did change my life and set me on the path to where I am today.

I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle free, but so far would you say the journey has been a smooth road?
It definitely has not been a smooth road. The main challenge I have had to face is dealing with rejection. Over time, I have sent countless emails to various companies and people in hopes of working with them, only to be turned down. I would spend hours editing my resumes, drafting several cover letters, researching brands, and networking with people on LinkedIn, but was always told that I was too young, even when I was a senior in high school. I put so much work and effort into these pursuits that I felt very discouraged by the fact that my age was the deciding factor. Thankfully, as I have gotten older and proven myself, I have continued to advance.

While the rejection was frustrating, it provided me with the opportunity to learn and the chance to look at things from a different perspective. It made me realize that when one door closes, another door opens and could be the door you are meant to pass through. I learned to not dwell on the lack of responses but instead use them as more of an incentive to reach out to new people. And lastly, it taught me to never take no for an answer.

Challenges and obstacles are really what you make of them. You can either give in and give up or you can use them to your advantage and grow.

Can you talk to us a bit about the role of luck?
Honestly, I would not say it was luck as much as it was hard work and support that got me to where I am today. I am fortunate enough to have such an incredible support system, and I cannot even begin to express my gratitude towards my family, friends, bosses, colleagues, and even LinkedIn connections. I owe a huge part of my accomplishments to all those who have helped me along the way, and I am beyond grateful.

When it comes down to it, you can have people offer you opportunities and open doors for you, but you are the one that has to put in the work. It is up to you to decide whether or not an opportunity is something you want to pursue, and if it is, you have to give it your all. As my grandfather always says, “People can open doors for you, but you must walk through them yourself.”

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/baileyparrkerr/