With three sisters and a slew of girlfriends, Kerry O’ Brien has always been surrounded by strong women. Her deep understanding for women’s needs led her to start Commando, which provides women with luxurious and elegant undergarments.
Did you always know that you wanted to work in the Fashion Industry?
I didn’t know I’d have a career in fashion, but in retrospect, I should have. I always had a creative steak and a high receptivity to inspiration. I was the captain of the basketball team, wearing the purple pumps to away games, and coming home to a purple-painted room, my homage to Prince! My first job was at The Limited in the local mall, where I won many awards for selling the most and always being a PDLA (“Perfectly Dressed Limited Associate”). Thankfully, I am over my purple phase, but did have a slight relapse last year.
What words of wisdom did a significant female figure share with you in your life?
My mother always taught me to be strong, tough, and to solve my own problems. If I had a cold and was miserable, but hadn’t taken cold medicine, my mother would simply say, “Then suffer.” It sounds harsh, but my mother is one of the kindest women I know. What she was really saying is, “Take control of your life, solve your problems, and don’t be a victim.”
What in your life has brought or given you the greatest satisfaction or fulfillment?
It is and always has been my family. Oh, and heirloom tomato gardening. I grow 20 different varieties and at the end of the summer, I have a formal tasting and do a “style out” for next summer. Most people show pictures of their kids. I have an additional album just for my tomatoes. On a professional front, I get tremendous satisfaction when people tell me that my underwear or hosiery is “life changing.” At first it was embarrassing because it’s not like I was saving lives, but now I am proud. It shows that women are passionate about what I have created.
Women’s roles in society have changed dramatically over the past several decades. How have these changes had a personal impact on you?
Women feel more empowered now to say what they want and what they need. As an intimate apparel designer, I am particularly aware of this since undergarments used to be about the male gaze— they were often uncomfortable and contorted the body. Women don’t go for that now. They want comfort, they want to feel good in their own skin, and they don’t want anyone to tell them how to be sexy.
What future goals do you have for yourself?
I want to be happy, I want to be surrounded by friends, family and delicious food, and I want to wear amazing underwear. Check, check, and check.
Editor’s Note: In celebration of Women’s History Month, we spoke to several women who have spearheaded their way into the Fashion Industry. Follow us through our series that highlights the accomplishments and words of wisdom that all of the women had to share.
