Meeting other fellow brand Founders is inspiring, so when that happened with Jacqueline Gallen, sparks flew. We met Jacquie at our pop-up at Saks Fifth Avenue in Boca Raton. It was a serendipitous moment. She shared that she was on the verge of launching the BATHING BEAUTIES™ and fast forward to a few months, the brand's stylish headscarves are available for all to enjoy. Jacquie is a ball of energy, smart wit and her design background combined with her business acumen is diverse having worked for companies including Pottery Barn Kids. For Jacquie,  the beauty of entrepreneurship is that she can be there for her family. We are thrilled to feature Jacquie as an inspiring powerhouse. 

What is your favorite quote or life motto?

Do MORE things that make you HAPPY!

Tell us a bit about you. 

I was born and raised in Queens, NY.

I went to FIT college then got my first job as Textile Scarf Designer in NYC.

I then moved into textile home furnishing, which lead me eventually to San Francisco where I became one of the first design teams for Pottery Barn Kids in 2002.

From CA I moved back NY and then to NJ.

I started my own textile business when I got engaged.  I wanted to be able to work and be a mom once I got married.

I am now married 16 years, I have 2 children and have been living in Boca Raton since 2019.  My husband and I merged our freelance business into THE GALLEN GROUP in 2017, so we both can work from home together.

You’re the Founder of a new brand, The Bathing Beauties. In addition to already being the co-founder of The Gallen Group, what prompted you to start your very own product line? 

Ever since I was young, I had a passion for print and design. As a textile designer, I feel print and color are ways to express your personality to the world.

You usually will find me wearing a headscarf outdoors, especially at the pool and beach. Unfortunately, my designer silk headscarves were being ruined by sweat and sunscreen while I was out by the sun and water.

That's when I decided to create the BATHING BEAUTIES™.

I researched many fabrics until I found the perfect material.  Our headscarves are made of stretch jersey, sun protection SPF 50+ UVA/UVB/PA++ with a soft hand, cool to skin with Maxdri moisture management.

What is it that you hope to convey through The Bathing Beauties?

That women can feel beautiful and confident outdoors.  The Bathing Beauties was designed to “tie-together” function and style.

What inspires your designs and the overall brand aesthetics?

I am highly inspired by the Era of Glam, especially the beach and pool glam from the 1940’s - 1970’s.

When it comes to specific individuals whom inspired me, I would have to start with Vera Neumann. Her entire story from being one of the first female entrepreneurs to her stunning sense of style and success. Her headscarf brand is something I have truly admired. Diane Von Furstenberg is another inspiration to me. DVF created a lifestyle brand of silhouettes and print patterns that made women feel effortlessly sexy and confident. Slim Aarons has also created an aesthetic that portrays a world in which we all desire to live in.  You can experience the glamour, fun, and sexiness through his inspiring photos from this era. 

What do you love most about what you do?

I love every aspect of the design process. I love researching textiles from the past and creating unique one of a kind patterns for todays trends.

You’ve accomplished so much already, but to date, what would you consider your greatest accomplishment? 

My greatest accomplishment to date is finding the perfect balance between being a designer, creator, and artist, while also being a mother to my children and a wife to my husband. Managing both roles takes time and effort, and I feel extremely lucky to have a supportive family that allows me to pursue my creative dreams.

What are some future goals that you have for you, both personally and professionally?

My goal is to continue growing awareness of the brand and eventually expanded into other textile categories, keeping our aesthetic; low maintenance with vintage glam.

My personal goal is to live more in the present moment, rather than focusing on the tomorrow. It’s very easy for me to be consumed with planning and scheduling future dates, causing me to miss the moment I am in.

What is one fact that most would not know about you?

I used to be a dancer on a competitive dance team. My childhood was filled with dance school and traveling around the USA for competitions.

What is the best piece of business advice you’ve received? 

The best business advice I received was that I do not need to be everything to everyone.  

Now let’s talk fashion! How would you describe your own personal style?

I have a classic style with a twist of fun. I'm known for adding a pop of color, a print, or even a flower! For my wedding, I wore the classic white dress but chose to wear hot pink wedding shoes that peeked through the bottom of my dress.  You may find me out with jeans and tee and a bright blazer!

What’s your go-to outfit when you’re pressed for time?

A black romper, high heels, a fun clutch or bag, hair pulled back and hoop earrings.

 What’s your fashion or beauty indulgence?

Jewelry - Diamonds, designer handbags.

Favorite shoe style or shoe brand?

I love heels! I am 5’2” so I wear heels almost 100% of the time when I go out. For every day, I love a slide, from a sporty pool slide to a classic Dior slide.

Which cocktail best describes your personality?

Spicy Watermelon Margarita

I am classic.

I am sweet.

I am spicy (at times). 

I love the color pink.

Follow Jacquie on her exciting creative and entrepreneurial journey!

Instagram: @the_bathingbeauties

Facebook: @the_bathingbeauties