We recently connected with Vienne Brown and have shared our conversation below.

Hi Vienne, thanks for joining us today. What’s one of the most important lessons you learned in school?

During my college years as a Fine Art major, I found myself immersed in a unique lesson that has resonated with me throughout my journey with VienneMilano.

The pivotal moment occurred in one of my classes where we were tasked with creating installations using old newspapers. It was fascinating to witness the diverse approaches my classmates took. Some swiftly constructed towering and visually striking installations, while I embarked on a journey of a different pace.

In the midst of torn newspaper clippings and the scent of aging print, I found myself meticulously building a solid fortress. As my classmates marveled at their soaring structures, I realized the profound lesson that was unfolding before me.

The installation exercise was more than an artistic endeavor; it was a metaphor for the varied rhythms at which we, as individuals, navigate through life. Just as some artists construct swiftly and beautifully, my method was grounded in the deliberate construction of a sturdy foundation.

This experience illuminated the idea that each of us possesses a unique style and pace, and that’s perfectly okay. It’s not about how quickly or beautifully you build, but rather the strength and authenticity of what you create. This lesson has been a guiding principle in both my artistic and entrepreneurial pursuits.

Fast forward to founding VienneMilano, where the artistry of thigh-high stockings meets the intricacies of running a business. The understanding that we all work at different paces has been integral in fostering a team that embraces diverse talents and approaches, resulting in the creation of hosiery that embodies both style and substance.

In essence, the lesson from that art class remains a cornerstone of my journey, emphasizing the beauty in embracing one’s unique rhythm, be it in the creation of art or the growth of a brand.

As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?

I am the Founder of VienneMilano, and my journey into the hosiery industry began after my time in corporate America. While navigating the corporate world post-graduate school, I encountered a personal challenge that ultimately led to the creation of VienneMilano.

The frustration of not finding thigh-high stockings that elegantly stayed up on my leg became the catalyst for my venture. Armed with an MBA and a passion for Fine Arts, I founded VienneMilano to fill a crucial gap in the market. Our brand is not just about providing functional hosiery; it’s a celebration of individuality and self-expression.

VienneMilano offers a range of luxurious thigh-high stockings that are not only finely crafted but also designed to be a form of wearable art. We believe in the power of thigh highs for every occasion, and our diverse array of styles and colors reflects that belief. Whether it’s a corporate meeting or a special evening event, thigh highs can be the perfect accessory.

Our commitment is to empower individuals by offering high-quality hosiery that looks and feels luxurious while reflecting their unique personalities. VienneMilano stands out for the fusion of creativity, quality, and a deep understanding of our customer’s needs.

I take pride in creating a brand that transcends the traditional concept of hosiery. VienneMilano is not just about addressing a functional need; it’s about fostering a community of individuals who embrace their unique styles and feel empowered to express themselves freely.

For potential clients, followers, and fans, I want them to know that VienneMilano was born out of a personal need, a belief in the versatility of thigh highs, and a passion for merging artistry with functionality. We invite everyone to explore and embrace their unique style confidently with VienneMilano, where elegance meets empowerment for every occasion.

Let’s talk about resilience next – do you have a story you can share with us?

The onset of the pandemic brought unprecedented challenges, particularly in the realm of fashion and social accessories. As the world retreated indoors and social occasions dwindled, the hosiery industry, inherently linked to social gatherings, faced a notable slowdown. VienneMilano, like many businesses, was not immune to this impact.

However, instead of succumbing to the difficulties posed by the circumstances, I chose to weather the storm with resilience and determination. It was a period where staying headstrong became a mantra, even when the immediate future seemed uncertain.

In the face of business slowing down and fewer people going out, I focused on the essence of VienneMilano – the celebration of individuality and self-expression. Understanding that while social occasions might have diminished, the desire for personal style and confidence endured, I strategized for the future.

During this time, I dedicated efforts to engage with our community, share stories of empowerment, and adapt our offerings to meet the evolving needs of our audience. I sought to remind people that hosiery is not just a social accessory; it’s a statement of self-expression, even in the midst of a more subdued external environment.

Staying true to the brand’s ethos, I resisted the urge to step back and instead pushed forward. I used the slowdown as an opportunity to innovate, revamp our digital presence, and reinforce our commitment to quality and artistry.

The wait was indeed challenging, but the resilience paid off. As the world gradually reopened, VienneMilano emerged stronger, ready to cater to the renewed spirit of social interactions. The brand’s unwavering commitment to empowering individuals through thigh-high stockings remained intact, proving that resilience in the face of adversity can lead to a rewarding outcome.

The pandemic was a test of endurance, and I am proud to say that VienneMilano not only weathered the storm but also emerged more resilient, adaptive, and committed to celebrating the unique style of individuals in every circumstance.

Have any books or other resources had a big impact on you?

Absolutely, one resource that has significantly impacted my management and entrepreneurial thinking is the book “Luxury Marketing” by Jean-Noël Kapferer and Vincent Bastien. This insightful book delves deep into the intricacies of luxury branding and marketing, providing valuable perspectives on crafting a distinct identity, understanding consumer behavior, and navigating the unique challenges of the luxury market.

The authors, with their wealth of knowledge and experience, offer a comprehensive guide that has not only influenced my strategic approach but has also played a pivotal role in shaping my understanding of the nuanced world of luxury. I highly recommend this resource to anyone looking to gain profound insights into effective management and entrepreneurial strategies, especially in the context of luxury brands.

This book has been a beacon in guiding my decision-making processes, fostering a deeper appreciation for the artistry and precision required in the management of a luxury brand. I believe it will prove to be an invaluable resource for fellow entrepreneurs, providing a roadmap to navigate the complexities of the luxury market.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://viennemilano.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/viennemilano/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/viennemilano
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/viennemilano/
• Twitter: https://twitter.com/VienneMilano
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/c/VienneMilanoLuxuryHosiery

Image Credits
Joy LeDuc