Ressan is a true Manhattanite, having lived in New York for 35 years, and her perspective on style carries the depth of that experience. In our 10:AM Dialogue, she reflects on the pandemic era as a defining moment for comfort and individuality, why quality and statement go hand in hand, and how sustainability in fashion; embraced by brands like 10:AM is essential for the future of style.
Q:Â Having lived in New York for 35 years, if 10:AM Factory embodied a specific era in the city's history, which one would it be and why?
A: It would be the COVID-19 pandemic era. During that time, New Yorkers embraced a new lifestyle — blending home office routines with comfortable outfits that worked just as well outdoors. We also learned to resist big corporations and support emerging ideas that prioritize comfort and practicality — much like what 10:AM embodies today.
Q: Throughout your time in New York, has your style been more about making a statement or embracing timeless quality? Has that evolved over the years, and do you think 10:AM strikes a balance between the two?
A: It hasn’t really changed over the years — quality and statement have always been equally important to me. Quality matters for my comfort and my budget, while making a statement is key to expressing my personality. For me, both are priorities — and that’s exactly why I appreciate 10:AM. It combines thoughtful design with lasting quality, striking the perfect balance between the two.
Q: How has your perspective on sustainability evolved over time? Do you feel brands like 10:AM are driving that conversation in a way that resonates with you?
A: I’ve become much more mindful of environmental sustainability since 2000, and I’m still learning about it today. I believe every individual and business has a responsibility to prioritize environmental, social, and economic sustainability — including brands like 10:AM. Seeing 10:AM embrace these values through thoughtful designs and conscious choices gives me hope that more brands will follow suit.
Â