Emma Grede Net Worth: A Look at the Businesswoman Behind Good American and Skims 2024

Emma Grede Net Worth:  $320 million

Emma Grede is a name that resonates strongly in the world of fashion and entrepreneurship. Born Emma Findlay on September 23, 1982, in London, England, she has made significant strides as a businesswoman, fashion designer, and philanthropist. As the co-founder and CEO of Good American, a founding partner of Skims, and co-founder of Safely, Grede’s influence extends far beyond the fashion industry. Her remarkable journey from a modest upbringing to becoming a multimillionaire entrepreneur is both inspiring and groundbreaking.

Early Life and Education

Emma Grede’s story begins in the Plaistow neighborhood of East London. Raised by her single mother, Jenny-Lee Findlay, Grede’s early life was marked by economic challenges and a determination to rise above her circumstances. Her mother, who worked for Morgan Stanley, provided a stable but modest upbringing, and Grede’s father, of Jamaican and Trinidadian descent, was not actively involved in her life.

Growing up with three younger sisters—Charlotte, Rachelle, and Katie-Beth—Grede learned the value of hard work from a young age. She took on various odd jobs, including newspaper delivery, which instilled in her a sense of perseverance and discipline. These early experiences, combined with her fascination with fashion magazines like Elle and Vogue, fueled her passion for the fashion industry.

At the age of 16, Grede enrolled at the London College of Fashion, where she interned at prestigious fashion houses like Gucci. However, her drive to enter the fashion world led her to make a pivotal decision: she withdrew from college to pursue her career full-time. Reflecting on this choice, Grede noted, “It was the right decision for me,” underscoring her commitment to following her own path.

Career Beginnings and Entrepreneurial Ventures

After leaving college, Emma Grede embarked on a career in the fashion industry that began with her role at Quintessentially, a concierge company. She then transitioned to Inca Productions, where she worked as a fashion show and events producer. In 2008, at the age of 26, Grede took a significant leap and founded Independent Talent Brand (ITB) Worldwide, a London-based talent management and entertainment marketing agency.

ITB quickly established itself as a major player in the industry, and Grede’s vision and leadership drove its success. A decade later, ITB was acquired by Rogers & Cowan, marking a milestone in Grede’s career. Following the acquisition, she exited the company and began exploring new opportunities.

Good American: A Revolution in Denim

In 2015, Emma Grede’s entrepreneurial spirit led her to propose an innovative idea for a denim company to Kris Jenner. The concept was to create a brand that championed size inclusivity and body positivity. This vision came to fruition in 2016 when Grede, in partnership with Khloé Kardashian, launched Good American.

Good American’s debut was nothing short of groundbreaking. The company sold a staggering one million dollars worth of denim merchandise on its opening day. Grede’s approach to fashion was revolutionary: the brand not only offered a wide range of sizes but also introduced the size 15 jean to cater to diverse body types. Beyond denim, Good American expanded its offerings to include dresses, activewear, swimwear, and more.

Under Grede’s leadership, Good American became synonymous with inclusivity and empowerment, challenging traditional norms in the fashion industry and setting a new standard for body positivity.

Skims: Shapewear Redefined

Emma Grede’s entrepreneurial journey continued with her role as a founding partner of Skims, a shapewear brand co-founded by her husband Jens Grede and Kim Kardashian in 2019. As the chief product officer of Skims, Grede played a crucial role in shaping the brand’s vision and product offerings.

Skims quickly gained recognition for its innovative approach to shapewear, providing comfortable and stylish solutions for a wide range of body types. The brand’s success has been attributed to its focus on inclusivity and its commitment to addressing the needs of its diverse customer base.

Safely: A Mission for Safe and Sustainable Products

The COVID-19 pandemic inspired Emma Grede to co-found Safely, a brand of plant-based cleaning and self-care products launched in March 2021. The concept behind Safely was born out of Grede’s desire for safe and effective products for her own family. The company’s mission is to eliminate harsh toxins from American homes by offering plant-powered alternatives.

Grede’s commitment to sustainability and health is reflected in Safely’s product lineup, which includes eco-friendly cleaning solutions and self-care items. The brand’s focus on transparency and efficacy has resonated with consumers, further establishing Grede as a forward-thinking entrepreneur.

Philanthropy and Advocacy

Emma Grede’s impact extends beyond her business ventures. She is a vocal advocate for diversity and inclusion in the corporate world. Grede serves as the chairwoman of the 15 Percent Pledge, an initiative aimed at encouraging retailers to allocate 15% of their shelf space to Black-owned businesses. This movement, inspired by the Black Lives Matter protests following the murder of George Floyd, has helped generate significant revenue for Black business owners.

In addition to her philanthropic efforts, Grede has made history as the first Black woman investor on the reality TV show “Shark Tank.” Her appearance on the show marked a milestone in representation and showcased her commitment to supporting underrepresented entrepreneurs.

Recognition and Achievements

Emma Grede’s achievements have not gone unnoticed. In November 2022, she, her husband Jens Grede, and Kim Kardashian received the first Innovation Award presented by Amazon Fashion for Skims at the CFDA Awards in New York. By 2023, Forbes magazine recognized Grede as one of the Richest Self-Made Women in America, with an estimated net worth of $320 million.

Her recognition in the fashion industry and her entrepreneurial success reflect her ability to innovate and lead with purpose. Grede’s contributions to fashion and business continue to inspire and influence aspiring entrepreneurs around the world.

Personal Life

Emma Grede is married to Jens Grede, the Swedish co-founder of Skims and denim brand Frame. The couple relocated to Bel Air, Los Angeles, in 2017 and has four children together. Grede’s personal life is a testament to her ability to balance a thriving career with family commitments.

In her mid-twenties, Grede discovered that she is “super-dyslexic,” a challenge she has faced throughout her life. Despite this, her determination and resilience have propelled her to remarkable heights in her career.

Emma Grede’s journey from a young girl with a passion for fashion to a successful businesswoman and philanthropist is a powerful story of ambition and perseverance. Her work with Good American, Skims, and Safely demonstrates her commitment to inclusivity, sustainability, and positive change. As she continues to make strides in the fashion industry and beyond, Emma Grede remains a trailblazer and a role model for aspiring entrepreneurs.

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FAQ: Emma Grede

Who is Emma Grede?

Emma Grede is a British businesswoman, entrepreneur, and fashion designer known for her role as the co-founder and CEO of Good American, a size-inclusive denim company. She is also a founding partner of Skims, a shapewear brand co-founded with Kim Kardashian, and the co-founder of Safely, a plant-based cleaning and self-care brand. Grede has gained prominence for her innovative approaches in the fashion industry and her commitment to inclusivity and sustainability.

What is Emma Grede’s net worth?

Emma Grede’s estimated net worth is approximately $320 million as of 2023. Her wealth is primarily derived from her stakes in Good American, Skims, and Safely. She holds an 8% stake in Skims, a 23% stake in Good American, and a 22% stake in Safely, contributing to her significant financial success.

Who is Emma Grede husband?

Emma Grede is married to Jens Grede, a Swedish entrepreneur and co-founder of Skims and the denim brand Frame. The couple has been together for several years and relocated to Bel Air, Los Angeles, in 2017. Jens Grede plays a crucial role in the success of their joint ventures, including Skims and other business ventures.

What is Emma Grede’s ethnicity?

Emma Grede is of mixed ethnicity. She is the daughter of a white English mother and a Black Jamaican and Trinidadian father. Her diverse background has influenced her perspective and approach in her entrepreneurial and philanthropic efforts.

How many kids does Emma Grede have?

Emma Grede has four children with her husband, Jens Grede. Their family life is an important aspect of her personal and professional balance. The couple’s children were born after they moved to Los Angeles, reflecting their commitment to both family and career.

What Is Emma Grede Age?

Emma Grede was born on September 23, 1982. This makes her 41 years old as of 2024. Her age reflects a career spanning over a decade in fashion and entrepreneurship, marked by significant achievements and innovations.

What is the difference between Emma Grede’s children and kids?

The terms “children” and “kids” are often used interchangeably, and in Emma Grede’s context, both refer to her four offspring. The use of either term typically reflects the same group of individuals in a person’s family.

What is Emma Grede wedding like?

Emma Grede’s wedding to Jens Grede was a private affair, with details about their nuptials kept relatively low-profile. The couple’s marriage, which took place before they moved to Los Angeles, has been a foundation for their joint entrepreneurial ventures.

How many sisters does Emma Grede have?

Emma Grede has three younger sisters: Charlotte, Rachelle, and Katie-Beth. Growing up in a family with her mother and three siblings, Grede developed a strong sense of responsibility and perseverance from an early age.

Who are Emma Grede’s parents?

Emma Grede’s parents are Jenny-Lee Findlay, her white English mother who worked for Morgan Stanley, and her Black Jamaican and Trinidadian father. Her upbringing under her mother’s care, following her father’s absence, shaped her early experiences and career aspirations.

What are Jens and Emma Grede known for?

Jens and Emma Grede are known for their successful entrepreneurial ventures. They co-founded Skims, a popular shapewear brand, and have been involved in other fashion and lifestyle brands such as Good American and Safely. Their collaborative efforts have significantly impacted the fashion industry.

What role did Emma Grede play on Shark Tank?

Emma Grede appeared as a guest shark on “Shark Tank” during the 13th and 14th seasons of the show. She was notable for being the first Black woman investor on the show, and her participation highlighted her commitment to supporting diverse entrepreneurs.

What can you tell me about Emma Grede’s sisters?

Emma Grede’s sisters are Charlotte, Rachelle, and Katie-Beth. Growing up in East London with her siblings, Emma’s family background has been an integral part of her life, contributing to her resilience and drive in her career.

What do we know about Emma Grede’s parents?

Emma Grede’s mother, Jenny-Lee Findlay, worked for Morgan Stanley and was instrumental in raising Emma and her sisters. Her father, of Jamaican and Trinidadian descent, was not actively involved in her upbringing, but his heritage is part of Emma’s diverse background.

Who is Emma Grede’s spouse?

Emma Grede’s spouse is Jens Grede, a Swedish entrepreneur known for his work in the fashion industry. Jens co-founded Skims and has been a key partner in Emma’s business ventures. Their collaborative efforts have significantly influenced their brands’ success.

What was Emma Grede’s role on Shark Tank?

Emma Grede’s role on “Shark Tank” was as a guest shark. She made history as the first Black woman investor on the show, bringing her expertise and unique perspective to the panel and supporting emerging entrepreneurs.

What can you tell me about Emma Grede’s father?

Emma Grede’s father is of Jamaican and Trinidadian descent. Although he was not actively involved in Emma’s upbringing, his heritage is an important aspect of her background, contributing to her diverse cultural identity.

What is Emma Grede’s family like?

Emma Grede’s family includes her husband Jens Grede and their four children. Raised by her mother and having three younger sisters, Emma’s family background and her own immediate family life play crucial roles in her personal and professional journey.