In NYC, designer Ross shares secrets to success

New York--Engaging in social media, participating in trade shows and developing a consistent campaign are among the factors designer Kara Ross attributes to her success.

Ross presented these tips at the fourth annual Next Great Consumer Brands Showcase held last Wednesday in New York, as conference organizers chose her company as one of the fastest-growing privately held consumer brands.

The show took place at NASDAQ Marketsite in New York’s famous Times Square.

Ross addressed an audience comprised of consumer business investors, explaining how in 2003 she began designing one-of-a-kind fine jewelry pieces for friends and rapidly grew the brand into an international company with multiple product categories, including handbag and boutique collections.

Now retailers including Bergdorf Goodman, Neiman Marcus, Bloomingdale’s and Saks Fifth Avenue, as well as smaller independent boutiques in specific markets, carry Kara Ross. In addition, the designer opened her first store last November in Manhattan.

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International expansion, Ross said at the show, is a top priority, as she’s recently sold her handbag collections to retailers in Dubai, Istanbul and South Korea, and is now looking to Europe, Asia and the Middle East.

She also said she may expand her offerings, possibly delving into bridal jewelry, watches, tabletops and shoes.

Ross told the audience she attributes her success to several factors, among them maintaining a consistent aesthetic among the categories she designs in; developing strategic collaborations; editorial coverage and celebrity dressing; and thorough research to understand the specific wants and needs of certain demographics.

The Next Great Consumer Brands Showcase was hosted by boutique investment bank Consensus Advisors and NASDAQ OMX Group, the world’s largest exchange company. The conference featured 15 companies in a range of consumer product categories, as well as product demonstrations and keynote speakers.