Women in Promo: How Michelle Chen Cultivates Confidence with Female-Forward Corporate Apparel
Editor’s Note: This article was written for Promo Impressions. For more content on the promotional products industry and decoration, be sure to subscribe to the biweekly newsletter at PromoImpressions.com.
In 2007, Michelle Chen left her career in education to start Fossa Apparel, a woman-, minority-, and family-owned apparel manufacturer and decorator that serves the promotional products industry.
Her transition from education to the apparel industry was driven by her family’s need to establish a sustainable livelihood in the Bay Area of California. At 26 years old, she left her kindergarten teaching position to co-found Fossa Apparel with her parents. Her mother’s experience as an import/export liaison for brands like American Eagle and Abercrombie paired with Chen’s educational background made for a dynamic pairing. Chen says her teaching experience brings a strong collaborative approach to the business, fostering a nurturing environment within her team.
As president of Fossa Apparel, Chen’s day-to-day involves strategic decision-making to drive the company’s growth. She leads the sales team, engages with customers, and oversees product development alongside her family members.
“There’s always a balance between tasks I need to do and those I wish to accomplish, and no two days are ever the same,” she shares. “Some days leave me feeling highly accomplished, while others feel draining and unproductive. I strive to leave any negativity behind and approach each new day with a fresh, positive mindset.”
Thinking back on her 18 years in the industry, she’s particularly proud of Fossa’s impact. The company has been recognized as a leader in sustainable apparel initiatives, Chen says.
“Fossa Apparel is fully committed to being responsible caretakers of our planet,” its website reads. “We offer eco-friendly products and take several waste-reducing measures, including recently changing all new packaging to polybags made with recycled materials.”
Female-Forward Apparel
Beyond sustainability, what sets Fossa apart from others in the corporate wearables space is its unique approach to the market.
The 2172 Ladies Laguna Lightweight Pullover | Credit: Fossa Apparel
“Unlike many apparel companies, we start our design process with the woman’s version,” the Fossa website states. “It’s easier to modify a woman’s design for men than to carve a woman’s cut into a design originally for men. This unique approach makes our clothing fit women better, whose styling and fit preferences often get overlooked in the corporate wearables market.”
Chen adds that when you look great, you feel great. “And that confidence influences those around you. Choosing what to wear each day is a conscious decision, and we strive to help women everywhere look and feel their best.”
In addition to taking a female-forward approach to clothing, the Fremont, California, apparel maker is a certified women-owned and minority-owned company. Chen says that status “deeply influences its operations.”
“The Chen family values diversity and inclusivity, which are integral to the company’s culture and decision-making processes,” she adds.
Facing Challenges and Finding the Balance
No matter the business you’re in or the industry you serve, obstacles and challenges are part of the deal. Even the best-laid plans can crumble when things outside of your control arise.
“From supply chain disruptions during peak seasons to the impact of tariffs on imported goods, these hurdles make doing business more complex,” Chen says. “However, we push through by working closely with our factories and customers to find solutions. We also strive to be a trailblazer, continuously introducing the freshest and latest innovations in corporate apparel. These experiences have reinforced the importance of adaptability and resilience.”
And when she’s not leading Fossa’s teams or overseeing product development, Chen enjoys taking long walks to clear her mind and reset her focus.
“Over the years, I’ve come to understand the importance of maintaining a healthy work-life balance and setting boundaries,” she shares. “Without them, work can easily consume you both mentally and physically. As my mother always says, ‘We work to create a better life; if that life lacks balance and leaves you feeling miserable, then what’s the point?’ Mothers are always right!”
