From Providence to NYC

Brooke German

“It was a happy accident,” Brooke German said as she recollected the moments between growing up in Providence and working in the fashion industry in Manhattan.

The George Washington University alum began her career with several political internships focused in communications and public relations. However, upon deciding to move to New York, German found herself in the lifestyle sector of public relations and in love with the endless opportunities New York provides.

“I was able to blend my skill set with my desire to be on the forefront of trends,” she said. “Once I dug my heels in, I knew fashion was my sweet spot because it afforded me the opportunity to conceptualize partnerships and programs that touch other creative sectors.”

Now, years later, German is the director of public relations for Intermix, a multi-brand fashion retailer that offers a curated mix of trendy pieces across the United States and Canada.

Reflecting the style of Intermix, German’s edgy wardrobe contains a mixture of white v-necks, striped tees, structured blazers, leather jackets and ripped denim.

“I like basics that are anything but,” she said. “It’s all in the detail. My favorite trends this season are updates on classics: New nauticals with a slightly ’70s vibe and soft separates as a carefree take on typical suiting.”

Working in fashion in Manhattan seems like a dream. Brooke German believes her ideology has helped her get into the fashion industry.

“For me, the trick has been to approach every project with curiosity, determination and respect,” she said. “That ethos has enabled me to do good, smart work for good, smart people. It’s simply a matter of talking to people and making authentic connections which lead to incredible experiences and symbiotic relationships.”

In order to escape the hustle and bustle of the city, German relies on her strong Jewish identity to remain balanced and maintain perspective. She maintains her sense of tikkun olam through her involvement with the Joint Distribution Committee, the world’s leading Jewish humanitarian assistance organization.

“As the grandchild of Holocaust survivors,” she said, “it’s my duty to help those in need, and The Joint’s work across the globe: repair, rescue and relief, speaks to me. I’ve traveled on service trips to Cuba and Ethiopia with the organization, and in August I’ll lead a group to Rwanda where we’ll be with teen orphans at the The Agahozo-Shalom Youth Village, modeled after those set up in Israel following the Holocaust.”

Between juggling the success of her career, spirituality, and personal life, German’s “happy accident” was no accident at all.

STEPHANIE ROSS is a freelance writer and marketing coordinator in Boston.