In an era where leadership values, cultural norms, and consumer expectations are constantly evolving, it’s time to recalibrate. “Reality Check: The Push for Progress” zeroes in on the bold, visionary women shaping the future of beauty, fashion and entertainment - industries that are both mirrors and drivers of societal change. As progress stalls in many areas, these leaders are confronting new obstacles head-on, navigating a shifting landscape with creativity, resilience and purpose.

Conversations throughout the day will explore the real implications for brands, consumers and culture - and what meaningful allyship looks like across generations. Packed with actionable insights, it’s a powerful look at where the industry stands and how we move forward.

There is an adage that every challenge presents an opportunity, and that is particularly true for female executives today.

Amidst a backdrop of ever-evolving leadership values, cultural norms and consumer expectations, the path forward for women is tricky — despite strides made over the last two decades.

During our fifth annual Women in Power Forum, WWD, Beauty Inc and Footwear news will gather top executives from fashion, footwear and beauty to discuss the key issues impacting female leaders today. To be held on September 8 at The Glasshouse in New York City, key themes will include creating a culture of consensus in contentious times, overcoming adversity to power progress and insights into mindset of today’s cross generational consumers.

We’ll explore the intersection of sports, culture and style; explore the entrepreneurial mindset; discover what’s working at retail (and why), and share strategies to empower both ourselves and those around us.

Confirmed speakers will include top entrepreneurs Martha Stewart, Trinny Woodall and Tracy Anderson; designers Carolina Cucinelli and Marina Larroudé; leading financiers Anna Sweeting and Sasha Radic; Libby Wadle and Olympia Gayot of J. Crew Group; Hali Borenstein, CEO of Reformation, Sheila Harrington of Urban Outfitters and Free People, Noella Gabriel of Elemis, Melis del Rey of Amazon, Colie Edison of the WNBA and Amber English of the Estée Lauder Cos. Also taking the stage: Stormi Steele of Canvas Beauty, Google’s Kellie Fitzgerald, Carhartt’s Susan Hennike, Susie Kuhn of Wolverine Worldwide, and Vanessa Kuykendall of Market Defense.

It promises to be a day filled with ideas and inspiration, where attendees will forge new connections and insight into the path forward. I hope that you’ll join us and add your voice to the conversation.

Jenny B. Fine

Editor in Chief, Beauty Inc

Executive Editor, Beauty, WWD