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Her breakthrough came when she joined John Wanamaker’s historic department store in New York, managing the Belmaison interior decor studio. From 1918, she honed her craft, decorating model rooms and advising affluent clients. This role offered comprehensive training in sourcing furnishings, fabrics, and meeting demanding expectations, significantly expanding her professional network.
Building an Impressive Clientele and Philosophy
By the late 1920s and early 1930s, Ruby Ross Wood had established a thriving interior design empire. Her client list read like a Who’s Who of American aristocracy, including the Vanderbilts and Blairs—testament to her impeccable taste and reputation.