Mikael Priestley is a 2013 FSF Scholar and a 2014 graduate of LIM College. Today, he serves as Senior Merchandising Manager, Men's Ready-to-Wear and Silk Accessories at Gucci, where he has spent 12 years helping guide the brand through multiple creative eras. Below, Mikael talks about staying intentional as relationships evolve, why he now mentors current Scholars, and the instinct FSF taught him to trust early on.
FSF: How would you describe your personal style in three words? Mikael Priestley: Effortless, modern, comfortable.
FSF: What's the most important lesson you learned through FSF? MP: Trust yourself. Trust your instinct.
FSF: The future of fashion is _____. MP: Culture, innovation, emotion, identity, and technology.
FSF: How did FSF help you embark on your career—and how do you continue to tap into the community or its resources today? MP: FSF has been instrumental in my journey into the luxury space, opening doors to industry professionals and relationships that have helped shape my career. I'm now grateful for the opportunity to give back by mentoring students through FSF as they navigate their own paths in the industry. By sharing my experiences and introducing them to people within my own network, I hope to help create the same sense of access, encouragement, and opportunity that FSF provided me.
FSF: Who or what has had the biggest influence on your fashion journey so far? MP: Curiosity and a commitment to personal growth have been the biggest influences on my fashion journey. The opportunity to try new things and experience different areas of the fashion business has continually broadened my perspective, challenged me to grow, and shaped how I think about my career and the decisions I make for the future.
FSF: Can you tell us about a recent project you're proud of? MP: While not one specific project, I'm particularly proud of the role I've played in helping support the evolution of one brand over the past 12 years. Working in merchandising alongside several different Creative Directors has given me the opportunity to adapt to different creative visions and translate them into the business. Each transition has felt like stepping into a new brand, while still building on the foundation of what came before. Being part of these different eras has been incredibly valuable to my personal and professional growth and has given me a unique perspective on how a brand can evolve while maintaining its identity.
FSF: What role do you see mentorship playing in the future of fashion? MP: Mentorship plays an extremely important role in the fashion industry. From my own experiences with mentors to now having the opportunity to mentor others, I've come to see mentorship as a kind of "therapy" for the industry—a space where you can speak openly and without judgment, gain perspective, and find solutions to navigate your career with greater confidence.
FSF: Are there any lessons from your time as an FSF Scholar or Alumnus that continue to resonate with you today? MP: I've learned the importance of being intentional with the relationships you build throughout your career. Whether through FSF, the Alumni community, or former colleagues, I've found that staying connected and maintaining an open dialogue can create opportunities for both professional growth and genuine friendship.
📲 Follow Mikael's journey: LinkedIn
