The Materialist : Gabrielle Katz

This week on The Materialist, Superstar publicist and New York IT Girl Gabrielle Katz takes center stage in a lively discussion with At Present Founder Marc Bridge about her journey in fashion PR, the evolving industry, and the joy of being a thoughtful materialist. As the founder of Accent Projects, Gabrielle has collaborated with some of fashion’s most iconic brands, including Oscar de la Renta, St. John, and Edie Parker. Gabby rocking the At Present : Jalil Johnson BOLD Bracelet In this episode, Gabrielle reflects on her early love of fashion, inspired by family legacies and her obsession with red sparkly shoes as a child. She shares her thoughts on the thrill of research-driven shopping and the meaning behind brands like Totême, Celine, and The Row. Highlights from the conversation include: * The Row and Totême: Why thoughtful shopping—filled with research and patience—is more rewarding than fast fashion trends. * Behind-the-scenes moments at Oscar de la Renta: From early mornings in the office to understanding house codes, Gabrielle details the lessons that shaped her career. * A bold collaboration: How St. John and Edie Parker created a tweed cannabis clutch that merged classic luxury with modern fun. * Emerging brands to watch: Gabrielle’s picks include London jewelry designer Lucy Delius, Milanese staple Slowear, and DTC favorite Aligne. The conversation also dives into the challenges and opportunities of modern PR, the rise of influencer culture, and why thoughtful materialism is about appreciating the meaning behind what we wear and share. This episode is a must-listen for fashion enthusiasts, brand-builders, and anyone curious about how legacy brands adapt to modern trends. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit atpresent.substack.com