When Greg Colussy, a graduate of the University of Colorado and 2008 FSF Scholar made his way to NYC, he didn’t have much more than “creativity and a dream.” But he was able to parlay an internship into a career in men’s merchandising—cutting his teeth at Club Monaco and moving up the ladder at Coach, before landing a job at Michael Kors. As Senior Director of Men’s Merchandising, Greg is helping evolve the brand’s men’s narrative, capitalizing on a major growth opportunity for the globally recognized fashion house.
Below, Greg reflects on his FSF beginnings, the long tail of mentorship, and why thank-you notes still matter.
FSF: What’s the most important lesson you learned through FSF?
Greg Colussy: Who you know matters.
FSF: How did FSF help you embark on your career, and how do you continue to tap into the community today?
GC: FSF helped me land my first internship in NYC when all I had was drive and a creative spark. Since then, it’s become a network of mentors, colleagues, and friends—many of whom are now industry leaders themselves.
FSF: Who or what has had the biggest influence on your fashion journey so far?
GC: I’m deeply grateful to the mentors who have supported and challenged me along the way—many of whom I met through FSF. Hope Brick, Chip Thompson, Mary Banks, Harry Harrison, Marie Colletta, Peter Arnold, Raul Penaranda, Debra Malbin… the list goes on.
FSF: What role do you see mentorship playing in the future of fashion?
GC: Mentorship is everything. It’s not just top-down advice—it’s the long-term dialogue, the reciprocal energy, the tough love and support. Every career, every brand I know that’s succeeded has had mentorship at its core.
FSF: Are there any FSF lessons that still stick with you?
GC: Cast a wide net. Be open to new experiences and people. And never forget the power of a handwritten thank-you note.
FSF: Anything else you’d like to add about your experience with FSF?
GC: Never underestimate the power of peer connection. At this year’s FSF LIVE, I watched my fellow 2008 scholar, Iman El Khatib, honor Macy’s CEO Tony Spring onstage. We met at an FSF intern event, and she’s now a vice president and divisional merchandise manager at Macy’s, Inc. That’s what this community can do.
FSF: Can you tell us about a recent project you’re proud of?
GC: I’m proud of the work we’re doing at Michael Kors to define and expand the men's brand narrative. From internal collaboration to partnerships with licensing teams, we’re unlocking real potential, and the global consumer is responding.
FSF: Any upcoming projects you’d like to share?
GC: Keep an eye on MK Men’s 😉
FSF: In a few words, the future of fashion is _____.
GC: Constant reinvention.
