Today we’d like to introduce you to Paloma Alexandre.
Hi Paloma, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
I was born and raised in McAllen, Texas, where growing up near the Gulf of Mexico gave me a deep appreciation for the ocean and sparked my passion for creating more sustainable fashion. I studied Fashion Management & Product Development at the University of the Incarnate Word in San Antonio before moving to New York City to earn my master’s degree in the Business of Fashion.
While completing my master’s in 2019, I founded Palondré The Label with the vision of creating luxury swimwear that was both elevated and responsibly made. Today, Palondré is based in New York City and ethically produces each collection in Colombia with a female-owned manufacturing partner. Our mission is to create timeless, sophisticated swimwear that empowers women while proving that luxury and sustainability can go hand in hand.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Definitely not. Like most entrepreneurs, there have been plenty of challenges along the way. I launched Palondré while I was still in graduate school, so I was learning how to build a business from the ground up while balancing school and later a full-time career in fashion and ecommerce.
One of the biggest challenges has been building a brand in an incredibly competitive industry while staying committed to sustainability and ethical production. Producing in smaller quantities with a female-owned manufacturing partner in Colombia means higher costs and longer timelines, but it’s a tradeoff I believe is worth making.
I’ve also learned that entrepreneurship requires constant adaptability. From navigating supply chain delays and funding production to wearing every hat—from designer and marketer to customer service and operations—I’ve had to figure things out as I went. Every challenge has made me a stronger founder and has reinforced why I started Palondré in the first place.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
In addition to founding Palondré, I’ve built my career working across nearly every side of the fashion industry. I’ve held roles in merchandising, ecommerce, digital marketing, site operations, and brand strategy at companies ranging from global retailers to contemporary luxury brands. Those experiences have allowed me to collaborate with incredibly talented designers, merchants, marketers, manufacturers, and executives, each of whom has shaped how I approach building my own business.
Today, I bring all of those experiences into Palondré. From product development and sourcing to ecommerce, marketing, and customer experience, I’m involved in every aspect of the brand. I’m especially proud of creating a company that’s rooted in intentional design, ethical production, and long-term sustainability rather than chasing trends.
What sets Palondré apart is that every decision is made with both the customer and the planet in mind. We design timeless swimwear in New York City and ethically produce it in Colombia with a female-owned manufacturing partner, proving that luxury, quality, and responsible production can coexist. My diverse background across multiple areas of the fashion business has given me a unique perspective that’s helped shape Palondré into the brand it is today.
Are there any apps, books, podcasts, blogs or other resources you think our readers should check out?
I’m a big believer in continuous learning, and I love finding inspiration from people who are building brands and businesses. A few of my favorite podcasts right now are Let’s Get Dressed, Hot Smart Rich, and Female Founder World. They offer a great mix of conversations around entrepreneurship, marketing, fashion, and personal growth, and I always come away with a new idea or perspective. Staying up to date with industry news through Business of Fashion has also been invaluable as both a founder and someone working full-time in fashion ecommerce.
Beyond books and podcasts, I think my greatest resource has been the people I’ve worked alongside throughout my career. Every role I’ve held has exposed me to talented mentors and colleagues across merchandising, product development, ecommerce, marketing, and operations, and those experiences have shaped how I lead and continue to grow Palondré.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://palondrethelabel.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/palondrethelabel/
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paloalexandrecantu/
