Women of Distinction

Geraldine Stutz
1924 - 2005

Ms Stutz became president of then-failing luxury retailer Henri Bendel in 1957, and remained in that position until 1986. While becoming president of a multi-million dollar business at the age of 33 is pretty common-place today, in 1957, most women in retail were relegated to sales positions. If they were lucky, they fought their way to being a buyer.

Ms Stutz is credited with inventing the "shop within a shop" sales method we all know today; small boutiques of separate designers within a large department store.

She started as a shoe editor at Glamour and is credited with launching Andy Warhol's career.

QUOTE:

"What is the difference between mere fashion and true style? Fashion says 'Me too', and style says 'Only me'."