Rebecca Minkoff is an American fashion designer and reality television personality with a net worth of $10 million. Known for her eponymous brand, Rebecca Minkoff co-founded the fashion label in 2005, which quickly became a major force in the fashion industry.
Her designs are now sold in over 900 stores worldwide, and her brand continues to be a go-to for stylish handbags, accessories, and ready-to-wear collections.
In 2022, Rebecca sold her company to Sunrise Brands for an estimated $13 to $19 million. The sale marked the end of an era for the brand, but it was a significant financial milestone in Minkoff’s career.
The brand was previously generating up to $100 million in gross revenue before the impact of the pandemic.
Early Life and Career Beginnings
Rebecca Minkoff was born on December 11, 1980, in San Francisco, California. Raised in a Jewish family and also involved in the Church of Scientology, she developed a passion for fashion early on.
She began working in her high school’s costume department, which sparked her interest in design. At 18, she moved to New York City to pursue her dreams and landed an internship with designer Craig Taylor.
Her big break came when actress Jenna Elfman wore a T-shirt Rebecca designed on The Tonight Show with Jay Leno in 2001.
The “I Love New York” shirt received national attention, and it put her on the map as a designer to watch.
Building the Rebecca Minkoff Brand
In 2005, Rebecca and her brother Uri Minkoff co-founded the Rebecca Minkoff brand. Initially known for her handbags, Rebecca’s creations quickly gained popularity for their modern, functional, and chic designs.
In 2009, she expanded the brand by releasing her first ready-to-wear collection, which further solidified her place in the fashion world.
Her designs have been worn by numerous A-list celebrities, including Reese Witherspoon, Keira Knightley, and Ashley Greene.
She has also made appearances on various talk shows and television programs, including Good Morning America, Fashion Police, Watch What Happens Live with Andy Cohen, and as a judge on Project Runway All Stars.
In 2018, Rebecca made headlines by opting out of showing at New York Fashion Week and instead launched the RM Superwomen project, a campaign that encouraged women to embrace courage and creativity.
This initiative was aligned with the ethos of the 2018 Women’s March, further cementing her reputation as a brand with a strong social consciousness.
Books and Media Appearances
In 2021, Rebecca Minkoff published “Fearless: The New Rules for Unlocking Creativity, Courage, and Success”, a book that offers guidance on how to overcome obstacles and carve out a path to success.
The book reflects on her personal journey and shares insights on how to approach creativity and business challenges.
In 2024, Minkoff became a part of the popular Bravo reality show “The Real Housewives of New York City,” bringing her fashion expertise and entrepreneurial journey to a wider audience.
Awards and Honors
Rebecca has received numerous accolades throughout her career, including recognition from The Council of Fashion Designers of America (CFDA) and multiple awards such as the Accessories Council’s Breakthrough Designer Award in 2011.
She was also a finalist for the Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year Award in 2013.
Her brand was also honored with the Fashion 2.0 Awards in 2015 for Top Innovator and Best Interactive Retail, underscoring her ability to blend fashion with technology and engage her customers in unique ways.
Real Estate
Rebecca Minkoff made a notable real estate purchase in June 2021, buying a $2.25 million apartment in Brooklyn, New York.
The 2,000-square-foot space is a reflection of her sophisticated style, with an emphasis on modern design and functionality.