A Conversation with NET-A-PORTER’s Content Director

Alice Casely-Hayford is a woman of many talents. In 2019, Alice started working at NET-A-PORTER as content director, and in 2020, she launched the Incredible Women podcast, where she is also a host. The podcast hosts women with different careers as they discuss important topics. Every season revolves around a specific theme. The most recent theme has been “Champions of Change.”

NET-A-PORTER’s Vanguard Education Fund was first launched in 2022. In 2023, Alice served as one of the mentors and helped guide college students before they start their careers in the fashion industry.

3oud.com interviews Alice Casely-Hayford as she talks about her responsibilities and how the fashion industry is changing.

1. What inspires you on a daily basis?

I find inspiration everywhere from the seemingly mundane to the extraordinary. But I’m also very lucky to be surrounded by a wealth of amazing women every day, from my family and friends to my colleagues, who I constantly find inspiring.

2. There are a lot of competitors out there so as content director, how can you make sure NET-A-PORTER stands out from the rest?

We ensure that we place the customer at the heart of everything we do so every decision we make is informed by consumer needs and what they want from us. This ensures that our content is as relevant and engaging as possible and means that we try to work in as agile and reactive way we can.

3. What is the main focus when working on the content for every season?

We want to celebrate the transformative power of fashion and how wonderful it can make us all feel and look. In that spirit, we aim for our content to be optimistic, uplifting, informative, inspiring, and entertaining.

4. When working with the creative director and fashion director, how do you work together to aim for a cohesive vision?

Our three teams working incredibly closely to create content that is resonant, unique to our brand and powerful. It is a joy to work with such brilliant, talented people on a daily basis.

5. Who would you like to have as a guest on the Incredible Women podcast?

I’ve been so fortunate to talk to so many exceptional guests already, but I would love to speak with Zadie Smith, Rihanna, or Dolly Parton!

6. What surprised you the most since launching the Incredible Women podcast?

How relaxed people are when chatting on a podcast! It’s been such a pleasure to have such candid and personal conversations with these amazing women, sometimes on the other side of the world. Despite the distance, the conversations have been very close and open, and it has been a joy to speak so honestly about a huge range of topics.

7. What has been the most valuable piece of advice you received throughout the years?

To be mindful of the battles that people might be fighting privately. You never know what someone is going though behind closed doors so treat everyone with kindness and patience.

8. In your many years of experience in the fashion industry, what has been the most challenging part so far?

When I first started out the industry was far more exclusive, so it was challenging having a lot of doors slammed in my face. Thankfully, the industry is becoming more inclusive and accessible but there’s still a huge way to go.

9. What has been the most rewarding part about being a mentor on the Vanguard Education Fund?

Meeting the talent of tomorrow is one of the most exciting aspects of my job. It is so uplifting to engage with those who are driving the industry forward, our future leaders, and support them in any way I can to have a sustainable and long-term career or business.