On September 10, Shannon Maher, dean of FIT’s School of Business and Technology, hosted Kimberley Carney, founder and CEO of FashWire, for a conversation with faculty and students. Launched in Seattle in 2018, Carney’s platform connects nearly 450 fashion brands to consumers in a uniquely interactive way: Users swipe left or right on styles, much like popular dating apps Bumble and Tinder. This real-time feedback allows brands to refine their offerings while consumers receive AI-curated fashion recommendations.
FashWire operates as a B2B2C platform, allowing shoppers to buy directly from the brands. Its success led Carney to expand with two additional ventures, GlossWire (for beauty products) and PawWire (for pet products), collectively known as The Wires.
When asked about the secret to innovation, Carney said, “I have a vision, and I stay true to it.”
Carney’s journey into fashion began with a clothing boutique that highlighted emerging designers. With a tech background from her time at AT&T, she initially envisioned FashWire as a B2B tool for her store but soon realized the need to include consumers. A pivotal meeting with Shark Tank’s Daymond John helped her refine her concept, and FashWire officially launched with the backing of Google. The Covid-19 pandemic further accelerated the shift to digital shopping, and today the platform includes high-end firms like Badgley Mischka.
During the Q&A, Carney was asked which brands thrive on FashWire. “The ones doing it right are active on Instagram or TikTok,” she explained. “Social media is huge for driving revenue.” A student inquired about what she looks for in potential hires. “I grew up playing team sports—basketball—so I look for people who are team players,” Carney said. “But it’s really about showing me they’re engaged with the brands. They don’t need 10 years of experience.”
Carney also shared her proactive approach to business, often reaching out to brands she’s interested in via Instagram direct messages. She expressed excitement about how AI will continue to enhance personalized shopping experiences on The Wires but acknowledged the industry’s relentless pace. “People ask me, ‘Where will you be in five years?’” she said with a smile. “I don’t even know where I’ll be tomorrow.”
This event, developed in partnership with the Fashion Group International, marked the launch of a new series at FIT called Visions and Voices, a salon-style gathering held twice each semester, powered by the School of Business and Technology. The series offers students direct access to leaders and innovators in the fashion industry. The next salon will take place November 7, from noon to 2 pm, and will feature Missy Tannen, founder and chief designer of organic cotton bedding company Boll & Branch.