Taryn Jones Laeben has spent her career elevating brands that make an impact (SoulCycle, Kate Spade, and Casper, to name a few). But now, as the owner and CEO of accessory brand Nisolo, she’s also proving that doing good and doing good business can go hand in hand.
With a deep belief in conscious consumerism (and the operational chops to match), Taryn is steering Nisolo into its next era: one rooted in transparency, accountability, and style that lasts. With more drive to shop sustainably than ever, we sat down with Taryn to discuss fashion, reimagining responsibility, and how we can all learn to “shop smarter.”
You’ve worked with iconic brands and now lead a B Corp focused on ethical production, but what drew you to Nisolo and its mission in sustainable fashion?
Nisolo stood out because the fundamentals were already there. It was an iconic brand with real cultural resonance and a deeply engaged customer base, but also one that had room to grow with a sharper strategy, operational discipline, and clarity around priorities. That combination of a strong foundation with meaningful upside is where I’m most excited to step in and lead. What ultimately drew me to Nisolo was the opportunity to steward that foundation and build a more durable, high-performing business around it.
How is Nisolo helping reshape what conscious consumerism looks like in the fashion industry today?
Conscious consumerism doesn’t have to be complicated; it can simply mean choosing products made with integrity and intention. Our customers reinforce this belief. Sixty-eight percent say they’re willing to pay a premium for products they know are responsibly sourced and constructed. That tells us values matter, but so do style, quality, and comfort.
As a member of the Leather Working Group, we’re deepening our sustainability efforts through a renewed framework we call our responsibility pillars. This includes continuing to source from tanneries in Mexico, increasing our use of leather scraps for accessories, and being even more thoughtful about how and where our materials are produced.
What questions should we really be asking brands before we buy?
Consumers should look for clarity over catchphrases. Instead of being swayed by broad “green” claims, it’s important to ask brands to show ‘how.’ How durable is the product, and how long is it designed to last? How committed is the brand to maintaining its social and environmental standards?
Third-party certifications and standards also play a significant role here. Credible organizations like the Leather Working Group provide independent verification that materials and working conditions are held to a rigorous standard. That kind of outside accountability helps cut through marketing language and gives consumers something concrete to put their trust in.
What’s one powerful change people can make today to become more conscious consumers?
One of the most powerful shifts people can make is to buy with intention, not urgency. Rather than chasing trends or impulse purchases, focus on pieces you can see yourself wearing often, and for years to come. Prioritizing longevity, quality, and versatility is one of the simplest and most impactful ways to shop more sustainably, because the most responsible product is ultimately the one you truly use, love, and keep in your wardrobe.
What’s next for Nisolo in 2026?
I’m especially excited about the relaunch of our reimagined Huaraches this spring. They’re a customer favorite, and this season we’re introducing new textures, colorways, and sole updates for much greater comfort and versatility. The evolution of this iconic franchise is intended to honor our heritage while also bringing a feel that is distinctly modern. The goal is to continue serving our core customer while also appealing to a more fashion-forward audience eager to style Nisolo in new ways.
We’re also in the process of developing footwear charms, designed to add a layer of play and self-expression while staying true to the craftsmanship and intention that define Nisolo. The creative process has been incredibly energizing, and I can’t wait to see how customers personalize their pairs.
