Alumni Spotlight: Lauren Field

What did you study at LSU, and what year did you graduate?

I studied Fashion Merchandising at LSU and graduated in December 1988. During my junior year at LSU, I participated in a visiting student program through LSU at Fashion Institute Technology in New York, where I studied Fashion Design and Production.

Tell us about your current role and what you enjoy most about it.

My current role is owner and buyer at Cotton Exchange Boutique, a women’s clothing & accessories boutique with locations in St. Francisville, LA and Bay St. Louis, MS. In this position, responsibilities include overseeing all aspects of the business including day-to-day operations, seasonal buying and reordering and interacting with customers. What I enjoy most is being in my stores and meeting new people and seeing familiar faces from the past. I also love that I own businesses in two of my favorite places: coastal Mississippi and Louisiana’s Hill Country!

What was your career path like after graduating? Any unexpected turns?

I completed an internship with Cohn Turner Woman and joined The Limited Corporation’s Manager Trainee program after graduation, gaining experience in staff management, merchandising, and customer service. After two years, I developed a business plan through LSU Small Business and Technology Center and the SBA mentoring program, opening my first boutique, Upland Cotton, in St. Francisville in 1992. Following five successful years, I paused to focus on family before serving as Executive Director for the St. Francisville Area Foundation from 2007 to 2022. In June 2022, I launched my new boutique, Cotton Exchange, and expanded to Bay St. Louis, Mississippi in April 2024. I now divide my time between both locations.

How did your experience at LSU prepare you for the workforce?

My time at LSU and FIT in New York provided the resources and confidence to pursue entrepreneurship. I built industry connections, gained hands-on experience, and worked my way up to become CEO of my own business. Today, I employ eight people across two profitable businesses and give back to the local communities where they operate.

What industry trends or challenges are you currently seeing in your field?

The retail clothing and accessories industry is highly competitive and widespread. Many brands now sell directly to consumers via social media and online platforms, which can make it more difficult for brick-and-mortar stores to attract customers. Currently, most retail boutiques maintain a social media presence and an online store to reach their customer base. The primary objective is to engage prospective clients and motivate them to visit brick-and-mortar boutiques for apparel and personalized styling consultations.

What advice do you have for students or recent grads entering the job market?

I strongly recommend anyone aspiring to launch a retail business or establish their own brand to participate in internships or corporate training programs. Gaining practical knowledge and experience provides valuable insight into customer service on the sales floor, backroom operations such as freight processing, business setup, employee recruitment and training, as well as the development of efficient store operations and workflows.

How do you stay connected to the LSU Ag community and support others in the field?

I stay connected to the LSU Ag community through a variety of meaningful avenues. Previously, I served on the Textile and Costume Museum board, which allowed me to contribute to preserving and celebrating the rich history of our field. More recently, I’ve found another rewarding way to stay engaged, by participating in this alumni spotlight. Sharing my journey here is not only a way to give back, but also an opportunity to connect with current TAM students who aspire to own their own businesses. I'm genuinely excited to be available as a resource and collaborator for those looking to take entrepreneurial steps in the textile, apparel, and merchandising space. Supporting the next generation of leaders in our field is something I’m deeply passionate about.