Quick Question
My form of Black liberation was to be able to help people provide for themselves economically.
It was my form of activism.
That all changed when she took her first trip to Africa.
Rasool quickly realized there was a gap she could accommodate.
So she promptly pivoted careers and foundedThe Folklore Groupin 2018.
My form of Black liberation was to be able to help people provide for themselves economically.
It was my form of activism, says Rasool.
With NYFW starting, The Folklore is opening its NYC showroom and highlighting 15 inclusive brands.
Below, Rasool talks more about this venture plus, her favorite organizational tools and best negotiating tips.
Since founding the Folklore Group, what has been your most fulfilling contribution to the fashion industry?
Actually seeing brands profit from their talent.
That was the whole purpose of starting The Folklore to be able to economically empower them.
Being able to see the tangible proof [that] weve accomplished our mission is really impactful for me.
How do you celebrate those wins and how would you advise others to celebrate their own?
I have this playlist called Hustle Harder.
So I have to recognize, What you thought about yourself is true.
Celebrate that, let that sink in and then get back to work.
Do you have a go-to outfit or a beauty look that boosts your confidence?
My boss look isnt putting on a blazer or putting on a suit.
I dont even own a blazer or a suit.
Im a Issey Miyake or Dries brand [fan].
When I graduated from my masters program, I had this beige set.
It was a long dress that has the Issey Miyake pleats and these long flowing wide-leg pants.
That was my boss look.
You negotiate a lot on behalf of your designers and your company.
Do you have any tips or tricks?
Ask for the stars and negotiate down.
You have to be able to qualify why you are asking for those things.
Dont just come and say you want something just for the sake of trying to negotiate them down.
There needs to be a reason.
You have to be well-studied and super prepared.
I usually prepare for meetings at least the day before.
If its a more important meeting, Ill prepare a few days ahead of time.
Come prepared with notes and questions.
Whats your favorite organizational tool?
Every day I use this planner, its called the Highly Effective Planner.
My dad recommended it to me, so Ive been using it for a few years.
Its where I can list my actual task and then I can time block my day.
Im really strict when it comes to time blocking.
And then for tasks, I use Asana.
Calendly really helps in terms of meetings.
I only take meetings Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and it has to be after 10:00 AM.
So Tuesdays and Thursdays I can focus on just doing independent work.
I live a very structured lifestyle when it comes to business and every day is a different focus.
What is the best piece of advice that you’ve ever received from somebody in the industry?
Dont just keep trying to do the same thing over and over again with no variance in result.
This interview has been edited and condensed for clarity.
