We had the good fortune of connecting with Kimberly McGlonn and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Kimberly, is there something that you feel is most responsible for your success?
The most important factor behind Grant Blvd’s success is the depth and diversity of talent in our team. Each of us has a super special ingredient and when those spices come together we’re able to execute in ways that continue to amaze me.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I think the thing that sets me apart in the fashion space is that my professional career started in public school education. Because of that, I learned to tell stories and to capture the attention of skeptical audience. But I also learned how to raise awareness and how to inspire. Not coming from within the industry as I developed my brand meant learning so many new skill sets and the learning curves were steep. But I continue to overcome my outsider positioning by remaining curious and open. I think it’s true that the best teachers were often the best students. Along the way I’ve also learned that the shifts we need in the fashion industry when it comes to addressing climate catastrophe are possible if we can radically reimagine production and sourcing. This mindfulness is what makes Grant Blvd so special and so important. We design beautiful & timeless garments in ways that put both people & planet first.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
When my BF is visiting Philly (where we launched our first brick & mortar) I would take her to check out Philly’s incredible arts scene with a visit to the Philadelphia Art Museum. Afterwards, we’d grab a beer at Triple Bottom Brewing, and then we’d hit up some of the other Black-owned shops I love voting with my dollars for like Marsh & Mane, FarmerJawn Greenery, and Uncle Bobbie’s Bookstore.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I’d like to shoutout film director, Ava Duvernay. We never know as creatives and truthtellers just how far our efforts will reach. Her documentary “13th” (about the 13th Amendment to the Constitution) reached me- it touched a nerve and inspired me to redirect my time and the use of my talents in the service of the currently & formerly incarcerated. So, shoutout to her.

Website: https://www.grantblvd.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/grantblvd/?hl=en

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimberly-mcglonn-ph-d-4798b0134/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/grantblvd/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fDTAmat1Te0

Image Credits
Photographer: Katie L. Hale

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutAtlanta is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.