When it comes to the fashion world, Misti Blasko is undeniably seasoned. With over 25 years of experience, she has held prominent roles at high-profile apparel brands like AllSaints, BCBG, and True Religion. Known as ‘the Deal Closer,’ she was recently named the first-ever female CEO of ABLE clothing and lifestyle brand, a Nashville-based, 98% women-run company.

With a passion for amplifying female voices, Misti is taking on ABLE’s mission to empower and impact women through ethically-made apparel and accessories. Get to know this inspiring FACE of the South!

A woman with long blonde hair, wearing a denim jacket and jeans, holds a large brown leather bag on her shoulder while smiling confidently at the camera.Pin
Meet ABLE’s new female CEO, Misti Blasko! Image: Nicola Harger

Can you tell us a bit about your early life and career background?

I grew up in a small town (Mariposa, CA) with my family. I am the oldest of three siblings, and I was surrounded by strong women. My grandmother was always involved in women’s groups to support giving women an opportunity to vocalize their views versus just listening. She gave the example that you should remember that life is coming from you, not at you.

You’re the first female CEO of ABLE. What drew you to this popular Southern brand?

What drew me to ABLE is the mission and the product. It is a special brand that gives back to women locally in Nashville as well as internationally. It really inspired me further when I was introduced to the women who run the company. I knew I wanted to be a part of the story.

A female CEO with long blonde hair and a white tiger print T-shirt points at a collage on a whiteboard, which includes photos, text, and various designs.Pin
Misti oversees nearly every aspect of the ABLE process. Image: ABLE

Can you tell us more about ABLE gives women a voice?

ABLE has given women new opportunities through product creation. Their heart is in the product they are creating, and that piece of that woman lives on when the customer wears it. We name all of the products after the inspiring women who create them.

What’s on the horizon?

I am excited to work with the team at ABLE to create a lifestyle brand. We will continue to protect the mission that should be honored through the product. More to come …

A man and woman are standing outside a building with a sign that reads "ABLE Local + Global." The woman, the new female CEO, is leaning slightly towards the man, and they are both smiling.Pin
Founder Barret Ward said in a press release that Able was “looking for the right leader to take us to the next level. Between her extensive experience in leadership and her passion for uplifting women, we are confident that Able’s mission remains intact.” Image: ABLE

What is your favorite Nashville discovery thus far?

My Nashville journey has just started … [There have already been] many trips to Frothy Monkey right next door to ABLE! I am excited to explore so much more.

What do you like to do for self-care when you’re not working?

Spend time in the sun, get massages, and have a day with my daughter doing our nails.

A female CEO with long blonde hair, dressed in a green blazer and white top, stands confidently in front of a plain concrete block wall, smiling at the camera.Pin
Most recently, Misti was the North American President of AllSaints clothing. She took the 15 million dollar company mainstream. Under her leadership, the brand grew from 25 to 85 stores! Image: Nicola Harger

Fill in the blank: You’ll never find me without my ______.

Planner

What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever been given?

Stay curious and keep learning!

Outside of faith, family, and friends, name three things you can’t live without.

Matcha, baseball, and dark chocolate.

LIGHTNING ROUND!

What was your most memorable recent meal? In Bass Lake with my family — at a local restaurant, eating good food and laughing hysterically

What’s on your nightstand? A cute lucky troll that my mom gave me when I tried out for the Universal Cheer/Dance Association (and I made it!)

What’s your favorite recent book or podcast? My good friend Dr. Jen Welter’s book Play BIG

What’s on your travel bucket list? Bali

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

**********

Southern women are doing inspiring work. Meet more of them over at our FACES archives!

Jenna Bratcher
About the Author
Jenna Bratcher

Jenna Bratcher is StyleBlueprint Nashville’s Associate Editor and Lead Writer. The East Coast native moved to Nashville 17 years ago, by way of Los Angeles. She is a lover of dogs, strong coffee, traveling, and exploring the local restaurant scene bite by bite.