Your Shopping Bag is Empty
International Women's Day 2024
Q&A WITH THE WOMEN OF BROWN THOMAS
To celebrate International Women's Day 2024, we asked some of the incredible women in our business a few questions about what it means to be a woman.
Dayse Silva
Fulfilment Manager
Who is a woman that inspires you?
It's difficult to name just one woman who inspires me. Our challenges are vast, and for each situation, there's a trailblazing woman who comes to mind, motivating and inspiring me in unique ways.
What is your favourite thing about being a woman?
For me, being a woman isn't just about gender; it's about embracing a whole world of experiences and perspectives. When I first stepped into leadership roles, there was this idea that I needed to mimic the behaviours typically associated with men – assertiveness, toughness, and be like them. But as I journeyed through my career, I discovered that my strength in being authentically me. I found power in my intuition, empathy, and ability to collaborate – qualities often attributed to women. These attributes have not only helped me achieve my goals but have also shaped my leadership style. Today, I'm proud to say that I lead with my heart and mind, unapologetically embracing the unique qualities that make me who I am.
What one piece of advice would you give to the next generation of women?
Let's keep ourselves opening doors for those who come next! Stand by the incredible women around you, stay in sync, and never forget to check out on your expectations because you're the one driving them forward!
Who would be your dream dinner party guest for International Women's Day?
Oprah Winfrey, for sure. But can I invite someone else too? I would invite the 7-year-old Dayse version, who was afraid of so many things and her father said that life wasn't so kind and colourful and she was afraid of growing up and face the future. I would invite her to cheer her up about life, future and fun.
What is one thing that always makes you feel empowered when you wear it?
My hair. It's not just hair; it's a journey. For 15 years, I straightened it, thinking it would help me better fit into the world. Yet, the moment I embraced it as it naturally is, it became a source of power. Now, whenever I want to feel empowered, I let it down (even though it's a real effort)
Naoise Osborne
Digital Content & Production Editor
Who is a woman that inspires you?
Without being too stereotypical, my Mam inspires me each and every day. She is one of the most important people in my life. She is the most resilient, strong, fun person that I know. She inspires me to want to be better and she believes in me even when I don’t believe in myself. We all need someone like that in our corner.
What is your favourite thing about being a woman?
Girl talk!!! There is little in life that feels better than a good laugh with your girl friends. Sometimes all it takes is a look, and you know instantly what each other are thinking. Without a doubt, my favourite thing about being a woman is the friendship.
What one piece of advice would you give to the next generation of women?
Romanticise your life! One of the best things I’ve started doing this past year is just that – slow down, enjoy the small stuff. Take a picture of that pretty sunset. Listen to that song on full volume. Dance with your friends. Laugh. Enjoy that coffee and take a minute to appreciate the view out the window on your morning commute. Don’t let the moment pass you by without stopping to appreciate it. These little things are what make up our life – don’t miss them because you’re too busy worrying about how you look or what that person thinks of you.
Who would be your dream dinner party guest for International Women's Day?
I would invite my two best friends who are in Australia currently (because I miss them), Stevie Nicks (obviously), Joanna Lumley (she’s hilarious, well-travelled and would have some tales to tell), Angela Scanlon (I love her style) and probably my Mam and my sister (just because they’re great).
What is one thing that always makes you feel empowered when you wear it?
My GANNI boots! I got the Cleated Mid Chelsea Boots before Christmas, and they make me feel so strong and powerful. I love stomping around in them.
Marilyn Gallagher
General Manager at Brown Thomas Galway
Who is a woman that inspires you?
So many! One that jumps to mind: Michelle Obama. A role model for women across the globe and a leading advocate for health, wellbeing and education.
What is your favourite thing about being a woman?
We live longer!
What one piece of advice would you give to the next generation of women?
Always be confident in your abilities!
Who would be your dream dinner party guest for International Women's Day?
Celine Dion. She seems like great craic, an incredible performer, plus she could sing to me!
What is one thing that always makes you feel empowered when you wear it?
This sounds so boring but I have to say smart black outfits. 90% of my time I am in black. It signifies confidence and elegance. Black as a colour choice in work is a timeless decision. My wardrobe is 50 Shades Of Black!
Sarah Winton
Internal Communications Manager
Who is a woman that inspires you?
Not sure if this counts, but the first person that came to mind is my daughter (she’s 7). She just views the world in such an interesting way and has such a unique perspective. Having a daughter has also challenged me to reflect on what kind of example I want to set for her, and what kind of world I’d like her to inherit as a woman.
What is your favourite thing about being a woman?
Becoming and being a mom has truly been the most amazing experience. Also, girl math!
What one piece of advice would you give to the next generation of women?
Ask for forgiveness rather than permission.
Who would be your dream dinner party guest for International Women's Day?
Sarah Blakely.
What is one thing that always makes you feel empowered when you wear it?
A new handbag.
Laura Pitchford
Senior Digital Content & Production Editor
Who is a woman that inspires you?
I discovered Stef Sword-Williams (@FBEINGHUMBLE) when I was trying to raise my visibility in the industry as a freelancer and have followed her closely since. She's a no-nonsense founder who enables people to self-promote without being cringe. She's a down-to-earth creative turned public speaker and I highly recommend her book and webinars to those who are looking to grow in their field. Her tips and strategies are great when job hunting in particular.
What is your favourite thing about being a woman?
The support network women develop for each other is the best thing about being female. I just don’t think men have the same level of community and gathering as women do!
What one piece of advice would you give to the next generation of women?
Manage your finances well and start saving every month! I didn’t do this when I started out in my career but I really wish I had.
Who would be your dream dinner party guest for International Women's Day?
In a luxury fashion & beauty context I would love to have dinner with Victoria Beckham as I’ve grown up with her really. I loved seeing her side of the story in the Beckham documentary last year but I’d like to know how she turned it all around for her public image from a Spice Girl to a globally respected fashion designer and business woman.
What is one thing that always makes you feel empowered when you wear it?
Something as simple as a black blazer makes me feel smart and professional but still fashionable.
Caroline Brown
Head of Store Design
Who is a woman that inspires you?
Bjork – she is completely unique.
What is your favorite thing about being a woman?
Being a Mum.
What one piece of advice would you give to the next generation of women?
You are a person above all else, equal in every aspect of life. Respect everyone and yourself.
Who would be your dream dinner party guest for International Women's Day?
Gráinne Ni Mháille (Granuaile) – although I’d have to brush up on my Irish and go back in time. It’s a dream dinner party after all!
What is one thing that always makes you feel empowered when you wear it?
Red Lipstick, I always feel a bit braver when I have it on, a bit like war paint!
Sarah Roche
Beauty Divisional Manager for Brown Thomas Dublin
Who is a woman that inspires you?
All the woman I work with, we have a great mix of strong woman on our team that inspire me every day.
What one piece of advice would you give to the next generation of women?
Be confident!
Who would be your dream dinner party guest for International Women's Day?
Victoria Beckham.
What is one thing that always makes you feel empowered when you wear it?
My black Ganni blazer - "ready for business."
Malgorzata Wagner
Talent and Learning Partner
Who is a woman that inspires you?
My mother for her positive go-to attitude towards life … I have never seen her complaining about anything.
What is your favourite thing about being a woman?
The ability to not be afraid to show your emotions.
What one piece of advice would you give to the next generation of women?
A laugh is your superpower, don’t ever underestimate the power of a good laugh.
Who would be your dream dinner party guest for International Women's Day?
Cleopatra.
What is one thing that always makes you feel empowered when you wear it?
High heels.
Donnine Burness
Deputy General Manager of Arnotts
Who is a woman that inspires you?
My Mum!
What is your favorite thing about being a woman?
Getting to be a mum myself.
Who would be your dream dinner party guest for International Women's Day?
Princess Diana.
What is one thing that always makes you feel empowered when you wear it?
A well tailored suit.