Ikram Goldman

Ikram Goldman, owner of Chicago boutique Ikram and for a time Michelle Obama's psuedo-stylist, is one of fashion’s most individual and powerful retailers. Through canny buying for the Chicago store, Goldman has prompted Ikram to be justifiably thought of as a mid-American equivalent to Colette or 10 Corso Como.

Goldman was among the first to buy Thakoon, Proenza Schouler and Prabal Gurung , and has always been a keen supporter of Rick Owens . It was Goldman who first nurtured the former United States’ First Lady Michelle Obama’s much praised interest in American design. Whilst living in Chicago, Obama was regular a customer in Goldman's store.

The indefatigable retailer is not afraid to share with designers her frank appraisal of their collections, or request they change elements of their designs. Jenna Lyons of J Crew, an admirer of Goldman, told The New York Times, “I’m not going to lie, she scares me a little bit.” Goldman is renowned for refusing to sell unflattering items to clients, regardless of their thoughts on the matter, and is very much hands-on in her store.

Not only does she stock high-end and avant-garde fashion, Goldman also sells it, “She’ll buy the statement pieces, the most dramatic pieces, for $15,000, or $20,000, and she’ll sell them,”  Brian Phillips , founder of Black Frame, told The New York Times.

Goldman has twin boys with her husband, Josh Goldman.