In the ever-evolving world of fashion, one force remains undeniable—the influence of a brand. For those passionate about accessories, the term “Bubble Bag” signals the distinctive touch of designer Tissa Fontaneda. Tissa, the creative genius steering a collection of meticulously crafted handbags and accessories, embodies a level of luxury that resonates louder than the latest TikTok trend.
Yet, what truly captivated me about Tissa Fontaneda’s world extends beyond her creations—it’s the woman herself. Born in Munich in 1965, this creative luminary holds a Ph.D. in Literature and Philosophy. Picture possessing the intellectual prowess to unravel the complexities of literary masterpieces, only to decide, “I’m off to conquer the fashion world in Paris.” It’s a journey that resonates with me personally, an unconventional path that many might shy away from. Tissa fearlessly abandoned the tried-and-true frameworks of risk and reward (that I learned at Harvard Business School) and the safety net of academia to dive headfirst into the chaos, glamour, and beauty of the fashion universe.
The Bubble Bag by Tissa Fontaneda
Having had the privilege of meeting Tissa, I can attest—she’s as captivating as she is characterful. And the key lessons this Ph.D.-turned-fashionista leader shared with me are as timeless and chic as the bags she creates.
Lesson 1: Follow Adventure, Embrace the Unknown
In the realm of brand leadership, decisions possess the transformative power to shape destinies. According to Tissa, leadership isn’t a predetermined destination; it’s an ongoing adventure. Change must become your constant companion. Embrace the unexplored, for genuine growth lies beyond the boundaries of familiarity. Believe it or not, sometimes, you’ve got to step out of your Zoom-call comfort zone to embark on that transformative journey.
Research from the Harvard Business Review aligns with her thinking. Despite organizations pouring billions into leadership development annually, many of these programs fall short, failing to cultivate the dynamic, collaborative leadership skills akin to adventure and vital for today’s work environment. In essence, the spirit of adventure sparks innovation, sharpens decision-making skills, elevates emotional intelligence, builds resilience, and fosters teamwork.
So, the next time you’re facing a leadership dilemma, consider that an adventure might just be the catalyst your leadership needs.
Tissa Fontaneda at her flagship London store on Motcomb Street in Belgravia
Lesson 2: Fall in Love with Your Mentors and Advisors
Behind every triumphant brand leader stands a network of mentors and advisors—according to Tissa, at least. In fact, I don’t think I’ve heard anyone speak so highly of their mentors. Her second lesson is elegantly simple: fall in love with the guidance they provide. Mentors have served as Tissa Fontaneda’s alchemists of success, and she encourages us to learn voraciously from their experiences, absorb their wisdom, and let their insights shape our journey.
Interestingly, 84% of Fortune 500 companies have mentoring programs, and 100% of Fortune 50 companies do. Of those with a mentor, 97% find the experience valuable. Yet, only 37% of professionals have a mentor, and 63% of women have never had a formal mentor. Mentorship is ranked as the #1 focus area for L&D programs in 2023, according to the latest LinkedIn Learning report.
The Bubble Bag by Tissa Fontaneda
Lesson 3: Do You – Be Unapologetically Polarizing
Last but certainly not least, authenticity possesses an unparalleled magnetism that isn’t afraid to alienate certain audiences. It’s a truth that I certainly see embodied by Tissa Fontaneda. She gracefully embraces The Kim Kardashian Principle, advocating the power of being unapologetically polarizing, staying true to yourself and naturally attracting the right tribe.
When Nike launched their campaign featuring Colin Kaepernick with the slogan, “Believe in something. Even if it means sacrificing everything,” it garnered massive attention and became one of the most successful and polarizing campaigns in the history of marketing. Reports from Adweek, Forbes and other media outlets immediately noted the line was inspired by my keynote speeches to marketers worldwide “Sacrifice everything if you believe in something,” the core principle of The Kim Kardashian Principle. So I can attest to Tissa’s perspective.
Being polarizing may sound intimidating to many, but it’s a strategic move. It stimulates healthy debate, helps your brand stand out in a crowded space, and serves as a catalyst for change. And in this hyper competitive environment where one brand is being launched every five seconds, it’s not just about creating fans but brand fanatics. Tissa Fontaneda’s lesson beckons to break the mold and be authentically, unapologetically you.
As you navigate the labyrinthine world of brand leadership, I’d consider these three lessons from Tissa Fontaneda. Adventure, mentorship, and authenticity aren’t just strategies; they are the pillars upon which enduring leadership and impactful brands are built. So, strap on your Bubble Bag, embrace the adventure, and fearlessly lead with authenticity in the ever-evolving landscape of business and beauty.
Named Esquire’s Influencer Of The Year, Jeetendr Sehdev is a media personality, international speaker and the author of the New York Times bestselling sensation, The Kim Kardashian Principle: Why Shameless Sells (and How to Do It Right.)
