As a designer, author, motivational speaker and philanthropist, I use my adversities to inspire others. I founded Designing Hope, a 501(c)(3) organization benefiting burn survivors. In partnership with Arkansas Children’s Hospital and the Arkansas Fire Fighter’s Association, Designing Hope ensures the continued growth of Camp Sunshine and Soar. I continue to build my couture brand, Romás by Linda Rowe Thomas. For my philanthropy service and design accomplishments, I was inducted into the Atlanta High School Hall of Fame, and Mayor Mark Stodola proclaimed March 12th officially Linda Rowe Thomas Day.

pressing questions

Best moment of your career so far?

Launching at New York Fashion Week in September 2010 and being named “One to Watch” by the New York Examiner. I’ve since dressed celebrities and clients for red carpet events such as the Golden Globes and the ESPY awards.

How did you know this is what you wanted to do?

I’ve known since I was 5 years old and sitting at my mother’s heels as she sewed that I wanted to design and create clothing. I’m very fortunate to have the opportunity to be living my dream.

Best advice you’ve ever received?

Can’t is not an option, and the only way to fail is to never try. My mother planted those words deep inside me as a child. It was imperative to her that we gave our best and followed our dreams.

If you could have lunch with any woman, who would it be and what would you order?

Definitely Oprah, and I’d have salmon. The opportunity to sit with such an iconic woman and pick her brain for her winning philosophy on balancing a successful career and personal life would be an invaluable experience.

What have been the biggest challenges you’ve faced in your career and how did you overcome them?

As a burn survivor, my greatest challenge has been having my abilities judged at face value. The key to overcoming that has been believing in myself and my gifts. I founded Designing Hope to inspire others to do the same.

What is a typical workday like for you?

Now that I have opened a larger space at 310 Center Street, my day is filled with meetings, designing, planning the new daily operations, sourcing fabric vendors, fitting clients and then rushing home to be super mom and wife.

Who is your role model?

My mother! She was an incredible woman who strongly believed in giving back and helping others. I still admire her integrity and strength. I pray that I'm able to instill the same passion, faith and courage in my own children.

It's all in the details...

Neighborhood you live in

Western Hills

Hometown

Douglassville, Texas

Last good read

“The Fault in Our Stars” by John Green

Favorite Food

Chocolate

Favorite Lunch Spot

One Eleven

First thing you do at the office each morning

Pray

Last splurge

Shoes

Hobbies

Running and movies

Dream Vacation

Dubai

Favorite Song

"Take Me to the King" by Tamela Mann

Linda is just one woman to watch in 2015

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women to watch 2015

Linda Rowe Thomas

Founder and Creative Director

Romás by Linda Rowe Thomas

women to watch 2015

Linda Rowe Thomas

Founder and Creative Director

Romás by Linda Rowe Thomas

pressing questions