Marylebone Village | Tracey Neuls Interview for International Women's Day
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Tell us about your role and your business…
I am the founder of my Footwear brand. Over 20 years ago, I saw the need for footwear that was beautiful, timeless and comfortable, a challenge to blend all aspects equally in a market that considers comfort, in particular, to be somewhat of an ugly word. I have my hands in every aspect from shop design, production, development, photography, wholesale and of course I keep design close to my heart. Being a woman means having several conversations going at the same time and multitasking my way through the day, it's just part of the norm.
Based on your own experience, what advice would you have for women wanting to get into your industry, or start a business of their own?
My advice for young women is to listen to your inner dialogue. When you feel something, go with it. Women have a keen sense of what feels right or wrong and you need to trust your gut instinct. There are a million people who want to tell you their opinion but in the end, you are the one who you can trust the most. That niggling feeling is the one that drives you - trust it.
What does International Women’s Day and this year's theme ‘Break the Bias’ mean to you?
There is still a massive Bias towards what one sex can do and what one cannot do. I’ll always remember this wonderful gentleman who came into the shop when my daughter was little. He told her “ You look very intelligent and I can see that you are very smart”. He later said to me, “ Can you imagine what women would be capable of if you were told from the beginning that you were smart instead of so much emphasis on being cute or sweet as little girls?”. I think breaking the bias needs to start at the youngest of ages.