Each week we will be highlighting one of the fabulous emerging designers from Phoenix Fashion Week 2018. This week, meet Amanda Casarez, the Designer of Amanda Casarez, a brand designs “Tomboy Chic” styles with a feminine contemporary polish.
Hometown: Livingston, CA
First fashion job: First fashion job was as an intern for a local designer in Hawaii, while I was going to school. As her assistant I patterned, graded, cut, and sewed first samples.
When did you know you had a passion for fashion: I knew it all my life, fashion and design is a family thing. I got it from my mamma!
Person who has impacted your life the most: I don’t have one single person who has impacted me the most, if I keep you close you impact me in ways you don’t know how.
Your biggest fashion accomplishment in your eyes: My first manufacturing order and store placement, by far my greatest accomplishment this year.
The biggest obstacle you have overcome: I’ve had plenty of obstacles, many that I still deal with on an everyday basis, I just don’t focus on them because I don’t want to be defined by them.
A designer who inspires you: Yohji Yamamoto, I love his style, a master tailor known for his avant-garde tailoring featuring Japanese design aesthetic. We also share a similar perspective: “I think perfection is ugly. I want to see scars, failure, disorder, distortion.” -Yamamoto
Favorite quote: “Pies para que los quiero si tengo alas para volar.” -F. Kahlo
Advice to someone pursuing a career in fashion as a designer: Learn as much as you can from other people’s mistakes. Get an internship or mentor to help guide you, and don’t be afraid to ask questions or make mistakes.
How has the Phoenix Fashion Week #DesignerBootcamp impacted your brand? It has helped me to focus on the business side of fashion in order to make my clothing line successful and profitable.
Favorite piece you have ever designed: Peruvian hand-knit sweater… favorite piece to date!
If you would like to attend Phoenix Fashion Week 2018, you can purchase tickets here: eventbrite.com. Use promo code FABAZ for a $20 gift card good towards any seat (not applicable towards standing room tickets).
Phoenix Fashion Week 2018 Emerging Designer Lineup
Thursday, Oct. 18 (Lifestyle):
Activ Intimates
Nani Swimwear
Rockin Street Wear
WVSH
Friday, Oct. 19 (Contemporary):
Being Dapper
Cody Chris Collection
MollyKate Cline
SiSi Aduke
Saturday, Oct. 20 (Ready to Wear):
Amanda Casarez
Chau Chic Designs
Orlando Dugi
Zelenco