Episode 52: How Patti Carpenter Built a Meaningful Global Design Career

In this episode, our guest is Patti Carpenter — principal of Carpenter + Company and Global Trend Ambassador for Maison&Objet — and honestly, what a ride this conversation was.

From the bustling world of high fashion to purpose-driven design work across 60+ countries, Patti’s journey is anything but linear. She’s lived it, breathed it, and pivoted with more grace and intention than most of us could dream up. And she’s bringing all that real-world wisdom right here to the pod.

We talk about:

• Why Patti left Ralph Lauren at the top of her game to follow her gut

• How to build a values-led creative business in a fast-paced, trend-chasing world

• What really separates a trend from a fad (this part blew our minds)

• How connections, community, and curiosity fuel long-term success

• The art of forecasting design trends — and what’s coming next 👀

• And why it's okay to start over, even when you’ve “made it”

This isn’t just about design. It’s about building a life and a career that aligns with who you are — and trusting that your weird, wild path actually makes you better.

If you’ve ever asked yourself:

“Am I too far in to start something new?”
“How do I build credibility in an industry I’m just breaking into?”
“What does it look like to work with artisans across the globe and still stay true to yourself?”

Then you’re going to love every minute of this.

Check out our website too:

https://designdash.com/

Follow us on socials:

https://www.instagram.com/designdasher/

https://www.tiktok.com/@designdasher

https://www.facebook.com/DesignDasher