– Emily, can you tell us about your background in the fashion industry?
EB: I started my career at Ralph Lauren Black Label under Whitney Fairchild. Most recently, I was the Creative Director of Dennis Basso for ten years. I have a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Fashion Design from Parsons School of Design and a Bachelor’s Degree in Media Studies from Eugene Lang College. Both part of The New School University.
– When presented with the task of planning a new collection and bringing it to fruition, where do you draw inspiration from, and how long is this process?
EB: The process for planning each collection is between 4-6 months. I get inspired by travel, art, films, and culture, as well as empowering women like Amal Clooney. I start with my inspiration/mood board, fabrics that I love, and connect with and feel that are right for the Burnett woman. A woman who is strong and confident but also very feminine.
– You both met during a very special time for Sterling: her marriage and the creation of her wedding dress. Sterling, besides recognizing Emily’s talent, what other factors motivated you to crossover into the world of fashion?
SM: After a career at Goldman Sachs, I found myself searching for ways I could use my skill set in a more creative industry. The great thing about having a background in finance is that it allows you to pivot to a different career as finance is relative in every profession. I left Goldman to study architecture and interiors, ultimately leading me to a career flipping properties which then led to the launch of The Starling Project, a luxury home fragrance line that benefits UNICEF’s solar energy programs. I am on the Board of Directors for UNICEF, and my passion for the cause drove me to create a social impact luxury brand.
When I met Emily, The Starling Project was already a successful brand carried by retailers such as Barneys. I found myself itching to start something bigger, and after getting to know Emily, I thought, ‘This woman is a real talent – how has she not already started her own label?’ I decided to ask her the question. It turns out the real reason she had not ventured off on her own was that she knew she needed a business partner. It was, indeed, the perfect match. That one conversation led to months of planning, creating a business plan, pitching to investors, and ultimately the launch of Burnett New York.
I believe life presents opportunities, and often, they are unexpected. I didn’t even know to launch a fashion label was my purpose in life, but when I met Emily, it quickly became apparent that I had found my missing puzzle piece.
– Sterling, what do you feel has been the most fulfilling factor in this career move?
I am so fulfilled by creating a company that is uplifting and empowering to all women. It truly is a dream come true. I remember looking up to powerful, entrepreneurial women my entire life who inspired me to shoot for the stars. I hope that we are doing the same for girls and women around the world.