Career Timeline of Kendra Scott: Major Achievements and Milestones

How Kendra Scott built a successful career. Explore key moments that defined the journey.

Kendra Scott is an American fashion designer and businesswoman. She is best known as the executive chairwoman, designer, and former CEO of her namesake company, Kendra Scott, LLC. The brand is known for its colorful and customizable jewelry and has grown into a major player in the fashion and accessories market. Scott's success stems from her designs and business acumen.

Sections (3)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements

2002: Kendra Scott LLC Founded

In 2002, Kendra Scott founded Kendra Scott LLC with $500. She designed her first collection in the spare bedroom of her home just after her oldest son was born, selling to local boutiques in Austin.

2005: Designs Chosen for Oscar de la Renta Runway

In 2005, Kendra Scott's designs were selected to accessorize Oscar de la Renta's spring 2006 runway show, marking a significant achievement in her career.

2006: Oscar de la Renta Runway Show

In 2006, Kendra Scott's designs were used to accessorize Oscar de la Renta's spring runway show, showcasing her designs to a wider audience.

2007: Designs Appear in Randolph Duke's Runway Show

In 2007, Kendra Scott's designs appeared in Randolph Duke's runway show, further establishing her presence in the fashion industry.

2008: Financial Crisis and Nordstrom Order

Due to the 2008 financial crisis, Kendra Scott almost had to close her company. However, she received a crucial order from Nordstrom, providing exposure and enabling her to expand her business.

2010: First Retail Store and E-Commerce Launch

In 2010, Kendra Scott opened her first retail store on Austin's South Congress Avenue. The same year, she launched her e-commerce business and the brand's Color Bar experience.

2010: Company's Program Donation

Since 2010, Kendra Scott's company's program has given away $30 million to various causes, displaying the company's philanthropic efforts.

2011: Opened Second Store on Rodeo Drive

In 2011 Kendra Scott opened her second store on Rodeo Drive in Beverly Hills, though it later closed.

2014: Store Expansion Around South and Midwest

In 2014, Kendra Scott expanded her business by opening stores around the South and Midwest, focusing on regions outside the fashion centers of New York and Los Angeles.

2015: Kendra Cares Program Launched

In 2015, Kendra Scott launched the Kendra Cares Program, which brought the company's customizable Color Bar jewelry experience to pediatric hospitals across the country, focusing on philanthropy.

2016: Minority Stake Sold to Berkshire Partners

In 2016, Kendra Scott sold a minority stake in her company to Berkshire Partners, a private equity firm, at a valuation of $1 billion, marking a major financial milestone.

2017: Awards and Recognition

In 2017, Kendra Scott was awarded the EY Entrepreneur of the Year National Award and the Breakthrough Award from the Accessories Council Excellence Awards. She was also named CEO of the Year by the Austin Business Journal, among other accolades.

2017: Kendra Gives Back Events

In 2017, Kendra Scott's company hosted over 10,000 Kendra Gives Back events across her stores, donating money to local causes and more than 75,000 pieces of jewelry, showing a dedication to philanthropy.

2019: Retail Store Count and Sales Locations

By the end of 2019, Kendra Scott had 102 retail stores. Her merchandise was also sold in various department stores and specialty boutiques worldwide, as well as online.

2019: Donation to The University of Texas

In 2019, Kendra Scott donated $1 million to The University of Texas to launch the Kendra Scott Women's Entrepreneurial Leadership Institute, supporting women in business.

2019: Inducted into Texas Business Hall of Fame

In 2019, Kendra Scott was inducted into the Texas Business Hall of Fame, becoming the 12th woman in the state to receive this honor.

2019: Forbes Ranking

In 2019, Kendra Scott was listed as #40 in Forbes' list of America's Richest Self-Made Women, demonstrating her financial success and recognition.

April 2020: Named to Strike Force to Open Texas

In April 2020, Governor Greg Abbott appointed Kendra Scott to the Strike Force to Open Texas, a group tasked with safely reopening the state during the COVID-19 pandemic.

February 2021: Steps Down as CEO

In February 2021, Kendra Scott stepped down as CEO of her company, retaining the title of Executive Chairwoman, and appointed Tom Nolan as the new CEO.