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Clare Lichfield
Founder of Ensoi London - On Deck Fellow
Professional Background
Clare Lichfield is an innovative entrepreneur and the visionary founder of Ensoi London, a groundbreaking fashion brand that is set to redefine the industry with its commitment to sustainability and inclusivity. The brand is evolving to become Bodica, which emphasizes its dedication to creating a more responsible and ethically sound fashion environment. Clare's entrepreneurial journey is notable for her pioneering approach to on-demand manufacturing methods, which leverage cutting-edge technology to minimize waste and offer size-inclusive fit personalization. With a forward-thinking attitude, Clare is at the forefront of a movement aimed at revolutionizing the fashion landscape, all while striving to eliminate the risks associated with holding inventory.
Clare's rich experience in the fashion industry includes valuable roles in fashion buying at renowned retail giants such as John Lewis Partnership and Primark Stores Limited. Her early career also featured an enriching stint as a product development intern at G-III Apparel Group, where she honed her skills in design and development. Clare's robust background in fashion buying is underscored by her analytical mindset and keen understanding of market needs, enabling her to align products with consumer demands effectively.
Additionally, Clare has been associated with esteemed organizations that focus on fostering entrepreneurial spirit and innovation. Having been a Founder Fellow at On Deck, she has cultivated networking opportunities and collaborations that empower emerging founders in the startup ecosystem. Her tenure as a cohort member at Huckletree Alpha School also reflects her commitment to continuous learning and personal development.
Education and Achievements
Clare's academic accomplishments are quite impressive, starting with a BA (Hons) in Chinese Studies from the prestigious Durham University. This unique major has provided her with valuable insights into the cultural nuances of one of the world's largest markets, enriching her perspective and equipping her with skills applicable to global business challenges. Additionally, Clare has studied Mandarin at Zhejiang University in China, further enhancing her understanding of the language and culture, which is increasingly important in today’s interconnected world.
Clare's educational journey began in Paris, where she attended Lycée Saint-Louis de Gonzague, excelling in Economics and Social Science, and earning High Honours in her French Baccalaureate. This solid foundation in both the social sciences and languages laid the groundwork for her diverse career path. Clare is a perennial learner, demonstrating her commitment to education and improvement, critical in today's fast-paced and ever-evolving business landscape.
Achievements
One of Clare's most notable achievements is her development of on-demand manufacturing methods as part of her brand's mission to enhance sustainability in fashion. By focusing on technology-driven solutions such as 3D body-scanning applications, Clare aims to create clothing that offers fully personalized fits, which could significantly reduce fit-related garment returns—a common issue in the industry. This innovation not only speaks to consumer needs but also addresses environmental concerns by minimizing waste, embodying Clare's passion for sustainability.
Moreover, Clare is deeply committed to the economic empowerment of women across supply chains, advocating for equitable practices that benefit female artisans and workers throughout the fashion production process. This passion not only enhances her brand's social responsibility but also aligns with a growing consumer demand for ethical and sustainable practices in the fashion industry.
As she continues to lead Ensoi London towards its transformation into Bodica, Clare Lichfield is poised to make a significant impact on the fashion world. Her dedication to innovative, sustainable practices and her commitment to inclusivity and empowerment highlight her as a forward-thinking leader in the industry. With her sights set on revolutionizing the way fashion is produced and consumed, Clare is undoubtedly a trailblazer who inspires others to think critically about the fashion ecosystem and their role in it.