Cynthia Rowley Hire

Although she originally intended to become a painter, Art Institute of Chicago student Cynthia Rowley decided to switch paths after a chance encounter with a local department store buyer. Post-graduation, the aspiring designer relocated to New York City and set about channeling her artistic background into a colorful clothing line filled with punchy printed dresses, tailored trousers, and ruffled blouses. Thanks to a $3,000 starter fund from her grandmother, Cynthia Rowling clothing officially launched in 1988.