Hilary Gaul
VP of Women's Design at Polo Ralph Lauren
Professional Overview
Hilary Gaul is an accomplished fashion design executive with over 25 years of experience in the industry. As the Vice President of Women's Design at Polo Ralph Lauren, she oversees the creative direction and development of the brand's women's apparel and accessories collections. Gaul's deep expertise in design, trend forecasting, and brand-building has been instrumental in driving the continued success and evolution of Polo Ralph Lauren's iconic women's line.
Experience Summary
Current Role
As VP of Women's Design at Polo Ralph Lauren, Gaul is responsible for leading a team of designers to conceptualize and execute seasonal collections that capture the brand's classic American aesthetic. Under her guidance, the women's line has consistently delivered strong sell-through and received critical acclaim from industry publications. Gaul's keen eye for detail, understanding of the target customer, and ability to translate Ralph Lauren's vision into commercially viable products have been key to her success in this role.
Career Progression
Prior to her current position, Gaul held senior design roles at leading fashion brands such as Ann Taylor, Lilly Pulitzer, and J.Crew. Her proven track record of driving design innovation, improving operational efficiency, and fostering collaborative team environments has contributed to her steady career advancement. Throughout her career, Gaul has demonstrated a talent for anticipating market trends and delivering products that resonate with consumers, making her a valuable asset to the organizations she has served.
Academic Background
Gaul holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in Fashion Design from the Parsons School of Design, where she graduated with honors. Her formal education, coupled with her extensive industry experience, has provided her with a well-rounded skillset and deep understanding of the fashion landscape.
Areas of Expertise
- Women's apparel and accessories design
- Trend forecasting and brand positioning
- Cross-functional team leadership and collaboration
- Operational excellence and process optimization
- Retail strategy and merchandising
Professional Impact
Throughout her career, Gaul has been recognized for her ability to drive innovation and commercial success. During her tenure at Polo Ralph Lauren, she has spearheaded the development of several highly successful women's collections that have resonated with the brand's loyal customer base and expanded its market share. Her strategic vision and design expertise have been instrumental in strengthening Polo Ralph Lauren's reputation as a leading lifestyle brand.
Conclusion
Hilary Gaul's diverse experience, design acumen, and strategic leadership make her a valuable asset to Polo Ralph Lauren. As the VP of Women's Design, she continues to push the boundaries of the brand's classic aesthetic while delivering products that consistently meet the evolving needs of the modern consumer. Gaul's passion for her craft and commitment to excellence position her for continued success in her role and ongoing contributions to the fashion industry.
