Many of us share one thing in common—especially here in the CF community. Career-wise most of us have success as the end goal. It’s what you get once your passion, ambition, and hard work blend together. While the definition of success is different for everyone, we all want it. Success might be grabbing that dream internship or dream job, or it’s the after effect of working hard—the ability to travel with friends or start your own side hustle. But what happens after you achieve success when you’re young? For some, it’s starting over again with step one.
That’s what Sari Sloane Keledjian, the former fashion director at Intermix, decided to do. She spent years helping build a brand that is well known among everyone from fashion insiders to everyday online shoppers. Beforehand, she worked as a buyer for Bergdorf Goodman and established a line of cashmere sweaters that were sold at the retail giant. With 15 years of experience behind her, it’s unsurprising that she’s continuing to make her mark on the fashion industry.
Following the sale of Intermix, she and her husband teamed up to form two new brands: everafter and The Westside. Everafter provides trendy clothes for kids, tweens, and teens. and The Westside curates and sells the pieces for creating a perfect California-inspired closet. Sari and her husband have already opened 10 stores in a little over a year, so when it comes to finding success quickly, we couldn’t think of a better person’s brain to pick.
What’s your coffee order?
A tumeric golden latte from The Elk in NYC.
What’s your go-to outfit when you’re in a bind?
My go-to outfit is a cashmere jumpsuit paired with my Elder Statesman Smoking cardigan and shearling Birkenstocks.
What are three makeup products you’ll never go without?
I’m more into wellness than makeup. My favorite products are my Shu Uemura Ultimate 8 Cleansing Oil, Obagi Vitamin C Serum, May Lindstrom The Blue Cocoon Beauty Balm Concentrate, probiotics from The Nue Co., propolis spray, and liposomal vitamin C.
What’s the one item in your closet you can’t (and won’t ever) get rid of—even if you never wear it?
I’m always recycling new and old. I love all coats, so my coats have a permanent place in my heart and closet.
What would you tell your college self now?
Dress less into trends and more for your lifestyle.
What are three things you didn’t know about this industry before you worked in it?
Buying in the kids market—this was all new to us. We never did kids at Intermix. As well as the power of transforming your brand into a lifestyle and carrying out that lifestyle with your store, merchandise, and people. And the importance of strong ties to the community in your retail markets.
What are your methods for dealing with negative comments and/or criticism?
Don’t take anything too seriously. Focus on what you know and do best and continue on at it.
How do you find time for yourself and separate your life from work?
I’m a very spiritual person and yoga is my everyday me-time. It is incredibly important for me to stay balanced in all aspects of my life.
What’s your best piece of advice for millennials and Gen Zers interested in starting their own company?
Be patient. It takes time to grow and develop a sound business. Surround yourself with like-minded people with the same short and long-term goals, but people who also have unique skill sets.
