April 25, 2025

328. Innovation Through Collaboration with Dillard’s Alexandra Dillard Lucie

41 minutes

SHOW NOTES

Title: Innovation Through Collaboration with Alexandra Dillard Lucie

Episode 328

Guest: Alexandra Dillard Lucie, Vice President and General Merchandise Manager at Dillard’s, Inc.

THIS WEEK’S TOPIC:

How do you breathe new life into a beloved legacy brand without losing sight of its roots? This week on She Said/She Said Podcast, we’re diving into the world of retail reinvention with Alexandra Dillard Lucie—third-generation leader at Dillard’s Inc.—as part of our She Said/She Said + The Southern C Collaboration Series.

Alexandra is helping reshape the department store experience for a new generation by weaving together innovation, strategic designer partnerships, and the unique sensibility that has defined Dillard’s since 1938. What does it really take to drive meaningful change in an established business, especially one that’s family-run? And how do you balance honoring tradition with charting a bold new course?

If you’re in the midst of transforming an organization (or even your own career), considering a collaborative venture, or simply curious about the evolution of retail, this episode is full of actionable insights and inspiration.

ABOUT THIS WEEK’S GUEST:

Alexandra Dillard Lucie is the Vice President and General Merchandise Manager for Dillard’s Inc. As the granddaughter of the company’s founder, she grew up steeped in the world of retail and fashion. Today, Alexandra is driving innovation at Dillard’s, launching new brands and influencer collaborations, building a “shop-within-the-shop” concept to nurture emerging designers, and embracing both the challenges and the strengths of leading within a family enterprise.

KEY TOPICS AND WHAT YOU’LL LEARN IN THIS EPISODE:

– FAMILY BUSINESS DYNAMICS: Alexandra shares the unique opportunities (and challenges!) of working at the intersection of family and business, and how generational leadership can anchor long-term thinking.

– BALANCING TRADITION & INNOVATION: Discover how Dillard’s is blending its Southern roots and decades-long reputation with unexpected collaborations, strategic risk-taking, and keeping a finger on the pulse of what’s next in retail.

– THE POWER OF COLLABORATION: Learn about Dillard’s Coterie Shop and how nurturing rising designers and forming authentic influencer partnerships has become a major driver of growth—and why authenticity is the No. 1 ingredient for success.

– MEASURING SUCCESS BEYOND SALES: Sometimes the biggest win is taking a bold risk, even if the immediate payoff isn’t monetary.

– BLENDING BRICKS AND CLICKS: Alexandra explains how Dillard’s approaches the balance of in-store and digital experiences in a fast-evolving retail landscape, plus why personal connection and community-building remain central.

– WHY SOUTHERN STYLE MATTERS: How Dillard’s Southern heritage is a strategic advantage—and why the explosion of “new South” creativity is shaping the future of fashion and retail.

– LEADERSHIP LESSONS & GROWTH: Insights on what it takes to stay inspired, creative, and forward-moving in an ever-changing industry.

There’s so much wisdom here for anyone navigating change—inside a business, a family, or your own career. We can’t wait to hear what resonates with you!

WHAT STRUCK YOU MOST?

Share your thoughts, aha moments, and takeaways from this week’s conversation! Connect with Laura: Instagram, Linked In, Facebook, or email: [email protected]

You can access all previous episodes and more content here!

SPECIAL SHE SAID/SHE SAID PODCAST LISTENER BENEFIT:

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By Laura Cox Kaplan

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