Women Who Inspire: Julia Engel

We are so excited to announce that Hampden is now carrying Gal Meets Glam by Julia Engel! Julia is a beautiful and inspiring designer, blogger, and person all around, which is why we asked her to join our team of "Women Who Inspire."

Can you give us a brief description of yourself and the inspiration behind Gal Meets Glam?

"I am the founder and creative director of the Gal Meets Glam blog and Gal Meets Glam Collection, a fashion brand that embodies everyday elegance and effortless sophistication. Through both businesses, I'm passionate about sharing my love for classic, feminine style and connecting with women all over the world."

What was the inspiration behind your March 2020 collection?

"A lot of this collection was inspired by my pregnancy last year and the desire for more ease and comfort while wanting to remain feminine and polished. I found myself drawn to styles that were more relaxed but felt special through their details, colors and prints."

What inspires you daily?

"Getting outside and traveling. Whether it’s an interesting color pairing I see in nature, art, while traveling, or the way light hits something, I’m constantly in awe of the beauty around. I also love digging through The Met archives online, Pinterest and Instagram."

What would you tell others to inspire them to think bigger and tackle their dreams?

"Everything great that has ever happened to me in my business has happened not because we sat and waited, but because we pursued an opportunity. One thing so often leads to another, which is why I believe strongly that no matter what may be standing in your way, you just have to start."

What inspired you to partner with Hampden?

"Ever since moving to Charleston in 2016, I pop into Hampden at every opportunity, both to shop and to find inspiration. Stacy has such an impeccable eye and her curation is better than any boutique I’ve ever been to. Since it is one of my personal favorite places to find pieces I love, it felt only natural to work with them as a new Gal Meets Glam Collection retailer. I couldn't be more delighted to have my designs as part of their perfectly curated selection and can hardly wait to share them with SMALL shoppers during an upcoming meet-and-greet!"

How will you be celebrating International Women’s Day (March 8th)/Month?

"I can't think of a more fitting way to celebrate than by taking the time to appreciate the women in my life in an intentional way. From my mother, to my sisters, to my best friends, I have a wonderful support system of strong, confident women. "

In honor of becoming a new retailer for Gal Meets Glam, we will be hosting a Spring Pop Up Shop on Thursday, March 26th with Julia herself! You can find more information on this event under our Events tab.