8 March International Working Women's Day emerged as a symbol of women's struggle for labour. The strike launched by women textile workers in New York in 1857 demanding better working conditions ended tragically with police intervention, and 129 women workers lost their lives. In memory of this event, at the International Socialist Women's Conference held in Copenhagen in 1910, on the proposal of Clara Zetkin, 8 March was adopted as an international day to defend the rights of women workers. In 1977, it was officially declared "International Women's Day" by the United Nations.
Throughout history, women have achieved great success not only in the struggle for labour but also in the fields of trade and branding. Today, many world-famous brands were born thanks to the entrepreneurial spirit and innovative outlook of women and have achieved global success. Here are some world-renowned brands founded by women:
- Estée Lauder (Estée Lauder Companies) One of the pioneers of the beauty and cosmetics world, Estée Lauder was founded in 1946 by Estée Lauder and her husband Joseph Lauder. With its innovative skincare and cosmetic products, Estée Lauder became one of the most respected brands in the world.
- Tory Burch (Tory Burch LLC) The US-based fashion and accessories brand Tory Burch succeeded in creating a timeless and elegant style with its designs. The company she founded in 2004 is today preferred by thousands of women in various parts of the world.
- Spanx (Sara Blakely) Founded by Sara Blakely, Spanx revolutionised the fashion world with its underwear and body-shaping products. With her own designs, Blakely succeeded in creating a brand that helps women feel more confident.
- The Body Shop (Anita Roddick) Known for its ethical and natural approach to cosmetics, The Body Shop was founded in 1976 by Anita Roddick. With its stance against animal testing and its sustainability policies, it gained a large following around the world.
- Diane von Furstenberg (DVF) Known for the wrap dresses that became iconic in the fashion world, Diane von Furstenberg created a major impact by founding the fashion house bearing her own name in the 1970s. Her designs became a symbol of strong and free-spirited women.
- Rihanna (Fenty Beauty & Savage X Fenty) Carrying her success in the music world over into business, Rihanna created an inclusive beauty brand with Fenty Beauty. Fenty Beauty stands out with a wide range of products suitable for different skin tones. She also gained an important place in the lingerie field with the Savage X Fenty brand.
- Vera Wang (Vera Wang Bridal House) A phenomenon in the world of bridal gowns and haute couture, Vera Wang founded the fashion house bearing her name in 1990. Wang's designs offer enchanting pieces that combine elegance and modernity.
As can be seen, women entrepreneurs continue to leave a great mark in different industries all over the world. These leaders, who make a difference with their creativity in fields such as fashion, beauty, technology and retail, are among the best examples of women's power in the business world. On International Women's Day, remembering the stories of these successful women and inspiring the new generation of women entrepreneurs is of great importance.