Daily Inspiration: Meet Lana Kartobanova

Today we’d like to introduce you to Lana Kartobanova.

Hi Lana, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I was born and raised in Russia, in the Caucasus region, and my career path has been a blend of structure and creativity. I completed my law degree back home, then moved to San Francisco where I decided to explore my artistic side and attended the Academy of Art University for fashion design.

After relocating to Los Angeles, I began my journey in luxury retail, which is where I truly found my passion. I’ve worked for brands such as Alexander McQueen, Giorgio Armani, Balmain Jimmy Choo, Versace and Golden Goose.
Over the years, I’ve built a strong reputation in the LA market as a trusted retail professional, working with high-end brands and developing long-term relationships with clients. I’ve also had the opportunity to do private client consulting within fashion tech, which allowed me to combine my business background with creativity and innovation.

I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
It hasn’t been a completely smooth road. Moving from Russia to the U.S. was a big change, especially since my background started in law and I later decided to move into a creative field. Starting over in San Francisco, going to art school, and then moving to Los Angeles meant I had to rebuild my career more than once, which wasn’t always easy.

Another challenge was growing in the luxury retail industry, because it’s a very competitive environment and results are expected right away. Building credibility, developing a strong client base, and learning how to succeed with different types of clients took time and persistence.

I think those experiences made me more adaptable and confident, and they taught me how to stay calm under pressure and keep improving, which has helped me a lot in my career.

Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I’ve spent over 10 years working in luxury fashion and retail, and I currently work at Versace. My career has taken me through brands like Balmain, Giorgio Armani, MaxMara, Alexander McQueen, and Jimmy Choo & Golden Goose, where I learned that great style is important, but great relationships are what really drives business.

I’m known for building loyal clientele, exceeding sales goals, keeping teams motivated, training development.

What sets me apart is that I take the work seriously, but not myself too seriously. I love fashion, I love people, and I genuinely enjoy the challenge of making the clients feel confident and crushing sales goals.

Are there any books, apps, podcasts or blogs that help you do your best?
I am a bit a bit of a geek and love podcasts about AI, tech & health. Lex Friedman is one of my favorite podcasts. He has a good mix of topics he discusses.
Always loved books. Growing up in Soviet Russia has made a huge educational impact. Literature and reading was a non negotiable knowledge.
Love philosophy, psychology, business and self development books. Poetry & fiction another 2 genres I find enjoyable.
Currently reading the Lean Startup.

Contact Info:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lana-kartobanova-ab957440

Image Credits
Styled by me. Shot by Jeffrey White
.