Remembering Zachary Leon Solomon: A Champion of Fashion and Retail

Zachary Leon Solomon, a prominent figure in the fashion and retail industry, passed away peacefully on August 15 in Sarasota, Florida, at the age of 91. Solomon’s illustrious career saw him associate with iconic brands such as Perry Ellis, Adrienne Vittadini, and Ellen Tracy, leaving an indelible mark on the sector.

A Life of Passion and Enthusiasm

Solomon’s son, Michael Solomon, described him as a storyteller at heart. “Zach had an unbridled enthusiasm for fashion, effortlessly sharing insights whether discussing a garment or analyzing a sales report,” he recalled. Solomon’s positive outlook was encapsulated in his signature phrase: “Not good, not great… Fantastic.” This expression reflected his zest for life and fervor for his work.

A Generous Spirit and Charismatic Presence

Friends and colleagues remembered Solomon for his generous personality. His impressive stature was complemented by a distinct full head of white hair, which made him a memorable presence in any room. His passions extended beyond fashion; family, friends, sports, and bridge were all integral parts of his vibrant life. Sue Phillips, his second wife and CEO of Scenterprises Inc., emphasized his love for life and the people around him.

From Humble Beginnings to the American Dream

Born in the Bronx to an immigrant tailor and homemaker, Solomon grew up in modest circumstances in Belle Harbor, Queens. “He never dined in a restaurant until he turned 17, a fact he made up for in the years that followed,” stated Michael. His humble beginnings laid the groundwork for a life defined by perseverance and success.

The Path to Retail Leadership

Before embarking on his retail journey, Solomon started as a car parker at Lundy’s in Sheepshead Bay, Brooklyn. His breakthrough came when he was accepted into a buyers training program at Abraham & Straus, despite his casual attire of jeans and a T-shirt. Solomon excelled, scoring the highest on the Wonderlic test, paving the way for a stellar career that culminated in roles such as president of the Emporium department store chain and vice chairman of May Department Stores Co.

Revolutionizing Fashion Brands

In 1998, Solomon took the helm as president and CEO of Adrienne Vittadini, leading the brand during challenging market conditions. He emphasized the need for versatile clothing, stating, “Women desire outfits suitable for the office or a country club, yet fashionable enough for evening wear.” His insights and strategies played a vital role in shaping modern women’s fashion.

A Legacy of Mentorship and Friendship

Throughout his career, Solomon forged lasting relationships. Michael Gould, former chairman and CEO of Bloomingdale’s, remarked on Solomon’s upbeat outlook, calling him “the ultimate eternal optimist.” Industry veteran Neal Fox described him as an extremely bright merchant whose fun-loving nature attracted those around him. Friends like Sharon Wax noted Solomon’s mentorship, inspiring others to approach business with curiosity and creativity.

Remembering His Love for Sports and Arts

Outside of fashion, Solomon was a sports aficionado, with a deep passion for the Brooklyn Dodgers and the San Francisco 49ers. He cherished music, often attending New York Philharmonic concerts and relishing the works of Rachmaninoff. In retirement, he became a Ruby Life Master in bridge and maintained connections with his college fraternity brothers through pinochle games.

Conclusion and Survivors

Zachary Solomon is survived by his son Michael, three other children, seven grandchildren, and multiple family members. His enduring contributions to the fashion industry, coupled with his infectious spirit and generosity, will be remembered fondly by all who knew him. A memorial service will be announced at a later date, allowing friends and family to celebrate his remarkable life.