Today we’d like to introduce you to Kristen Everett.
Kristen, please share your story with us. How did you get to where you are today?
From playing dress up in granny’s fur coats to styling Dallas’ elite and fashion conscious.
Originally from the East coast, I graduated with a business degree from James Madison University in Virginia. As most new college grads are I was eager to hit the work force. I landed a position at an affiliate of Koslow’s near Washington D.C and with a fierce mix of hard work, persistence and luck I worked my way up the ladder and was selected to become the new General Manager of our treasured Koslow’s Dallas location.
I found out quickly that this was the perfect career for me to exercise both my business acumen and creative skill set. What resonated with me most along the way was also one of my earliest memories of fur. The truth is that when I landed my entry level sales position in a ritzy area near our nation’s capital I was unfamiliar with the term ‘furrier’ in general. Knowing in few short weeks I would be thrown into the unknown industry I took a cousin, who shared a childhood memory of playing dress up in our grandmother’s fur coats, and went to visit our local furrier. I never expected what happened next. We spent over an hour with a charismatic consultant discussing how to care for the mink we inherited and even decided to remodel it into a trendy vest we would both love. We were laughing and enjoying the conversation of granny’s fabulous legacy and it hit me then that this was more than just a retail store. People patron these places because it reminds them of something, often loved ones and family. Furs can last for generations and therefore innately become more than an article of clothing. They are sentimental and memories to be treasured. The laughter was followed by tears the day we picked up our stylish mink vest and saw granny’s original monogram from the 1940’s added next to our initials. Again, hitting home that this industry transcends generations, I was ever inspired knowing that the core values of the industry I was pursuing are so similar to those in my own life, namely family.
We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
The most obvious obstacle is that the fur industry is a sensitive subject in itself, and we respect that. I initially viewed that as an ethical bridge I would have to cross but the more I researched the subject, the more empowered I felt. It’s important to note that furs are sustainable. The product is provided by an all-natural, organic, renewable resource. Throughout history the use, need and dealing of furs has evolved drastically. A lot has changed including where and who is dressing in fur. In the past, furs were considered a necessity to many while nowadays they are often regarded as luxury items. This affects business is a big way and you must adapt. Our company has always prided itself on being a leader in the industry. At the same time, we are receptive to the ever changing trends and learn from the best practices of our competition. As a young woman in business it’s critical to not be intimidated by any of these things.
So, as you know, we’re impressed with Koslow’s Furs – tell our readers more, for example what you’re most proud of as a company and what sets you apart from others.
Originating in Ft. Worth in 1934, Koslow’s is Texas’ trusted name in furs for a long time running. Now headquartered in Dallas, we continue to operate a full-service furrier including a retail salon, factory and storage vault. Year round we offer sales, restyling and repair, and proper storage of fine furs.
Flash forward to 2017 – today you see contemporary furs worn by people of all ages, genders and walks of life. It’s not uncommon to see furs paired across the spectrum with jeans and boots to evening gowns. We love to see young people come in with vintage furs inherited from loved ones too. We strive to offer all of our clients an experience as enriching as my own. How often do you own a piece of clothing that is sentimental?
Our company strives to maintain our position as an industry leader by consistently innovating practices to adapt to an evolving industry and fostering loyal client relationships that have made us a success in the DFW since the 1930’s.
Additionally, Koslow’s Furs is included in the largest alliances of Furriers in North America. With independent affiliates located across the country we are able to carry extensive inventory with a broader selection of styles and sizes than average. We carry furs to fit every price point and lifestyle.
So, what’s next? Any big plans?
Our plan is to stay relevant. Trends change, techniques evolve, consumers fluctuate. We are always perceptive to what is going on around us. Digital marketing has changed how people find business these days and you have to be seen to be known.
Contact Info:
- Address: Koslow’s Furs
The Shops at Park Lane
8188 Park Lane suite 154
Dallas, Texas 75231 - Website: www.koslowsfurs.com
- Phone: 214-361-6400
- Email: info@koslowfurs.com
- Instagram: @koslowsfurs
- Facebook: @KoslowsFursDallas
Fashion model posing in a fur coat
Image Credit:
Laveta Rochelle Photography
Getting in touch: VoyageDallas is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.
