Rosa Halpern: How She Took Her Love For History And Art & Launched An Edgy Fashion Brand

Drown the Noise

Rosa Halpern grew up drawing and designing things as a kid. So going into fashion wasn't a stretch of the imagination. But instead of going the traditional route of studying at Parsons or FIT, Rosa decided to go to the Art Institute of Chicago.

The interdisciplinary nature of her education encouraged a more conceptual approach to design and fashion, which helped to launch her unique brand known as Namesake.

Like a lot of my guests, Rosa didn't set out to be her own boss right away. She actually had an assistant designer position lined up for her when she graduated, only to find out it fell through because the company suddenly dissolved. It forced her to move back home, and figure out her next steps.

When a friend asked her to design/create a leather jacket for her, she agreed. And from that point on, friends started to take notice, and then their friends. And the rest as they say, is history.

Namesake is built around women who left a powerful imprint on society. As a designer, Rosa wants everyone to be able to express their individuality and edginess and wear their story with pride. We talk business, fashion, design, solopreneurship and the importance of creative expression.