Ramy Sharp on launching Ramy Brook to fill a void in the marketplace, and what inspired her to take the leap

Describe Ramy Brook in a few words?

Happy, Sexy and Strong! Ramy Brook is female owned and operated, stemming from one woman’s dream to uplift, empower and celebrate women. The apparel, accessories and swimwear collections transcend generational dressing, offering something for anyone looking for a vibrant and celebrational style. My vision is for women who wear Ramy Brook to feel beautiful and confident, knowing they are sexy, wearing something special, and looking their absolute best!

What made you take the leap to start your own business?

Ramy Brook started in 2010 when I couldn’t find the perfect, sexy top to wear with my collection of jeans and jewelry. I was looking for high-end designer quality at a contemporary price point - so I decided to learn how to make my own! I knew that if I felt this void in the marketplace, other women did as well. We launched Ramy Brook out of my Upper East Side apartment with six tops and one sexy dress. Flash forward to today, we are a full-blown collection offering tops, bottoms, dresses, knits, denim, outerwear, swimwear, cover-ups, accessories and fragrance. My story is a great example of listening to your gut, taking a chance, and believing in yourself.

What was your background prior to starting your own business?

I began my career working in advertising, which I loved! It was a very young, vibrant industry and incredibly social. Most of my days were spent meeting with magazines who were seeking our advertising dollars. I learned quite a bit about all the different publications and met tons of great people.I was able to really hone my people skills, which is something that I have taken with me throughout all my professional experiences.

What is the biggest lesson you have learned in 2020?

As a business, we've learned to adapt. During the start of covid, we had to pivot and make choices about how to work and keep everything upbeat, positive, and rolling. That was a good lesson for everyone—figuring out how to overcome different challenges. I have an amazing team. I realized that before, but now I see exactly how dedicated and hardworking everyone is. We all have the same goal, and that’s growing the Ramy Brook brand. What was also nice for us was having the extra time to spend with the kids. We went back to basics, enjoying things like family dinners and game night. Before, life would have us so busy, and everyone was running in so many directions. It was nice to take a step back and enjoy those moments.

What do you know now that you wish you knew when you were first starting your business?

Things change! In the beginning, it was discouraging when things didn’t work out. Buyers passed on the collection, deliveries were late, etc. But I came to realize nothing is permanent and with hard work and determination and a bit of time things work out!

What's something our audience would be surprised to learn about you?

• I used to play a lot of Mah Jongg.

• I grew up in NJ.

• My favorite store is TJ Maxx.

• I’m not a real blonde 🤷‍♀️

What are your top 3 tips to stay productive each day?

• Set your alarm to wake up early, it feels good to have the entire day in front of you.

• Exercise in the morning.

• Keep your phone fully charged! Nothing worse than realizing you have an important call and you have no battery power.