Innovation in Fashion Functionality with Hillary Glenn Riley
Hillary Glenn Riley, Senior Knit Apparel Designer at Smartwool, discusses innovation in fashion functionality, her journey in knitwear and performance apparel, and co-founding Glenn and Glenn. Learn about sustainable design, the evolution of apparel and fashion with 3D technology and AI, and get advice for aspiring designers. Discover insights into performance knitwear, the Denver apparel market, and the challenges of the fashion industry
In this episode of iNNOVATION Insights, host Dr. Eulanda Sanders sits down with Hillary Glenn Riley, a renowned knitwear designer whose work has significantly influenced the outdoor and activewear industry. They discuss Hillary's journey from a passionate art student to a contract designer and now a senior knitwear designer at SmartWool. Hilary shares her early inspirations, experience with prestigious internships, and insights into the evolving world of knitwear design. They delve into the challenges and opportunities in performance apparel, the impact of new technologies like 3D modeling and AI, and the need for sustainability in the fashion industry. Hilary also discusses her entrepreneurial venture, Glenn and Glenn, which she co-founded with her sister, Jillian Glenn Altman, and their journey through launching a contemporary workwear brand. This conversation is packed with valuable advice for aspiring designers and offers a deep dive into the world of knitwear and fashion innovation.
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Hillary Glenn Riley
Senior Knit Apparel Designer for Smartwool | Co-Founder of GLENN+GLENN
Hillary Glenn Riley is a seasoned apparel designer with 18 years of experience specializing in knitwear, print design, and apparel categories ranging from performance and active to luxury wear. Based in Denver, Colorado, she has collaborated with established brands and emerging startups, blending technical expertise with a modern design sensibility.
Her fashion career began at Diane Von Furstenberg in New York City, where she assisted in material development and print design. She quickly advanced to Assistant Trim Developer, gaining invaluable experience in luxury fabrics, intricate trims, and print development. Eager to broaden her skills, she transitioned to Macy’s private label team as an Assistant—then Associate—Designer specializing in Cut & Sew and Sweater categories. There, she grew her expertise in knitwear, mastering the full product lifecycle from concept to large-scale production, including sourcing, development, vendor communication, and buyer presentations.
After several years in New York, Hillary returned to Colorado, drawn back by her love for the outdoor lifestyle she had missed. She launched an independent contract design company in Boulder, working with brands such as Title Nine, Smartwool, Obermeyer, Spyder, Pearl Izumi, and Krimson Klover. This period allowed her to expand her expertise beyond knitwear, designing outerwear, activewear, and print patterns for both men’s and women’s apparel. Collaborating with startups provided hands-on experience in every stage of product development, from initial concept and fabric sourcing to prototyping a…
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