Emma Grede, a prominent British businesswoman and entrepreneur, has made significant strides in the fashion industry, particularly through her roles as the CEO and co-founder of Good American and a founding partner of Skims. With a remarkable net worth estimated at over $320 million as of 2024, Grede’s journey from a modest upbringing in East London to becoming a key player in the fashion world is both inspiring and noteworthy.
Born on September 23, 1982, in London, England, Emma Findlay Grede was raised by her single mother, Jenny-Lee Findlay, alongside her three younger sisters. Her early life was marked by financial struggles, which instilled in her a strong work ethic. From the age of 12, Grede took on various odd jobs, including delivering newspapers, to save money for fashion magazines like Elle and Vogue. This early exposure to the fashion industry fueled her passion and ambition.
Grede’s educational journey began at the London College of Fashion, where she enrolled at 16. However, she left before graduating to pursue her career in fashion. Her first significant role was at Quintessentially, a concierge company, followed by a position at Inca Productions as a fashion show and events producer. In 2008, she founded Independent Talent Brand (ITB) Worldwide, a talent management and entertainment marketing agency, which she successfully ran until its acquisition in 2018.
Rise to Prominence
Grede’s breakthrough came in 2016 when she co-founded Good American with reality TV star Khloé Kardashian. The brand was established with a focus on size inclusivity and body positivity, a concept that resonated with consumers. On its opening day, Good American made headlines by selling $1 million worth of denim merchandise, marking one of the most successful launches in the fashion industry. The brand has since expanded its offerings to include dresses, activewear, swimwear, and more, while also introducing the size 15 jean to cater to a broader range of body types.
In addition to Good American, Grede is a founding partner of Skims, a shapewear brand co-founded with Kim Kardashian and her husband Jens Grede in 2019. As the chief product officer, Grede has played a crucial role in shaping the brand’s identity and product offerings. Skims has quickly gained popularity and is valued at approximately $4 billion as of 2023.
Grede’s entrepreneurial spirit doesn’t stop there; she is also a co-founder of Safely, a plant-based cleaning and self-care product line launched in 2021. The idea for Safely emerged during the COVID-19 pandemic when Grede sought safe and effective cleaning products for her family. The brand aims to eliminate harsh chemicals from American homes, promoting a healthier lifestyle.
Financial Success and Net Worth
Emma Grede’s financial success is a testament to her hard work and innovative approach to business. As of 2024, her estimated net worth stands at over $320 million. This wealth is primarily derived from her stakes in various companies: she holds an 8% stake in Skims, a 23% stake in Good American, and a 22% stake in Safely. Additionally, Grede has invested in other ventures, including her husband’s companies, Frame and Brady, further diversifying her portfolio.
Grede’s financial acumen has not gone unnoticed; she has been recognized as one of the richest self-made women in America by Forbes. Her ability to navigate the competitive landscape of the fashion industry while maintaining a focus on inclusivity and representation has set her apart from her peers.
Advocacy and Representation
Beyond her business ventures, Emma Grede is a passionate advocate for diversity and representation in the corporate world. She serves as the chairwoman of the 15 Percent Pledge, an initiative that encourages retailers to allocate 15% of their shelf space to Black-owned businesses. This movement, inspired by the racial justice protests following George Floyd’s murder, aims to create opportunities for underrepresented entrepreneurs.
Grede’s commitment to social change extends to her role as a guest shark on the reality television series Shark Tank, where she became the first Black woman investor on the show. Her presence on the show has helped shine a light on underfunded Black-owned businesses, providing them with a platform to showcase their products and ideas.
Personal Life
Emma Grede is married to Jens Grede, a Swedish entrepreneur and co-founder of Skims. The couple resides in Bel Air, Los Angeles, and has four children together. Grede’s family life is an essential aspect of her identity, and she often emphasizes the importance of balancing work and family commitments.
Despite her success, Grede remains grounded and attributes much of her achievements to the lessons learned from her mother. She believes in the value of hard work, humility, and the importance of learning from every experience. Grede’s journey serves as a reminder that success is attainable through perseverance, dedication, and a commitment to making a positive impact in the world.
FAQs
What is Emma Grede’s net worth in 2024?
As of 2024, Emma Grede’s estimated net worth is over $320 million.
What companies has Emma Grede co-founded?
Emma Grede is the co-founder and CEO of Good American, a founding partner of Skims, and a co-founder of Safely.
What is the 15 Percent Pledge?
The 15 Percent Pledge is an initiative that encourages retailers to dedicate 15% of their shelf space to Black-owned businesses, promoting diversity and representation in the retail industry.
How did Emma Grede start her career in fashion?
Emma Grede began her career in fashion by working various odd jobs and later founded Independent Talent Brand (ITB) Worldwide, a talent management and entertainment marketing agency.
What is Good American known for?
Good American is known for its focus on size inclusivity and body positivity, offering a wide range of sizes from 00 to 32 in its clothing line.