Katie Baron

Katie Baron is a renowned London-based keynote speaker, author and foresight director with a 20-year track record of helping brands anticipate cultural shifts and future trends. Known for her clarity, originality and cross-sector insights, she’s currently Content Director at Stylus Innovation + Advisory, where she leads the Retail & Brand Comms and Pop Culture & Media divisions. Katie’s sharp eye for consumer behaviour and creative innovation has earned her a global reputation and a place among Rethink Retail’s Top Retail Experts in both 2024 and 2025. Her work is deeply rooted in storytelling, cultural commentary and the evolution of brand experiences, making her a powerful presence on the global speaking circuit.

Katie began her career in editorial roles at influential publications including Harpers Bazaar UK, Volt Magazine, and 125 Magazine, before moving into trend forecasting and brand strategy. She developed her understanding of creative direction while working in-house for iconic British retailers like Liberty PLC and Habitat, experiences that shaped her unique approach to retail and visual culture. Katie’s early involvement with the London College of Fashion’s Digital Anthropology Lab - a think tank focused on the intersection of digital technology and human experience - was a formative experience that cemented her passion for exploring how innovation affects identity, commerce and design.

Over the last decade, Katie has established herself as a global authority on foresight and future trends. At Stylus, she’s held roles including Director of Brand Engagement and Head of Retail, shaping the company’s content and strategic output across industries. Outside of Stylus, she contributes regularly to Forbes.com as a Senior Contributor, writing on retail innovation and brand culture. She is also the author of two critically acclaimed books: Stylists: New Fashion Visionaries and Fashion + Music: Fashion Creatives Shaping Pop Culture. Her expertise has seen her speak at major international events such as Milan Design Week, CogX, Decoded Futures, and WRLDCTY, and curate high-profile talks for organisations including Frieze Academy and CaixaForum.

Katie is a compelling and thoughtful speaker who helps audiences understand where culture is heading and why it matters. She speaks on a wide range of topics including the future of retail, the role of AI in creativity, luxury consumer behaviour and the impact of tech on identity and mental health. With deep experience across fashion, design, publishing and tech, Katie offers valuable insights that are both practical and provocative. Her talks inspire forward thinking, cultural relevance and creative action - essential qualities for any organisation looking to thrive in a changing world.