Katrina Lake is a standout figure in the e-commerce and AI landscape. The founder and former CEO of Stitch Fix, she built more than just a fashion-tech company, she reimagined how data, algorithms, and human insight could work together to transform retail, and in the process challenged who gets to lead in tech.
In 2011, Stitch Fix was launched from her apartment whilst she was earning her MBA at Harvard. The idea: pair stylists with algorithms that can send women personalised clothing boxes.
She has openly expressed that pitching the concept to Silicon Valley’s mostly male investors was tough. One famously said, “I can’t see myself using this.” to which she responded: “Let the numbers talk.” She built a loyal customer base and proved that prioritising data and user experience over investor opinions can lead to scalable success.
By 2017, Stitch Fix had over 2 million active clients and was nearing $1 billion in revenue, on just $47 million raised. That year, Lake went public with her toddler on her hip, becoming the youngest female founder to lead an IPO at age 34. Stitch Fix debuted at a $1.6 billion valuation and reached $2.1 billion in annual revenue by 2021.
AI Meets Human Insight
What set Stitch Fix apart is the vision of combining algorithms with personal stylists to deliver curated clothing selections tailored to individual customers. With over 85 data scientists and thousands of stylists, the company exemplifies how AI can enhance human decision-making rather than replace it.
Lake is also a vocal advocate for diversity in tech leadership. She’s been intentional about making space for others to “see themselves” in executive roles, not just “a lot of men in suits.” Her leadership stands as a powerful example for women and underrepresented founders in AI and beyond.
Katrina Lake’s story isn’t just about fashion or retail. It’s about using AI and data responsibly, centering the customer, and leading with purpose. Her work shapes how we think about personalization, equity, and innovation in the digital age.
