You’re a Big Deal: Amanda Pearl Brotman of Amanda Pearl

Posted by Ready4thisJIlly

Apr 29, 12

You’re a Big Deal: Amanda Pearl Brotman of Amanda Pearl

Click here for an EXCLUSIVE offer from Amanda Pearl!

Photo by Carol Dronsfield

Name: Amanda Pearl Brotman

Occupation: Designer/bosslady at Amanda Pearl

WBD: How did you get started?

Growing up I was always sketching and beading and making little things. I began sewing some evening bags out of college, but I didn’t really start properly designing and producing things until 2007/2008, after having spent 5 years working for other designers in various capacities. I took the prototypes I had made out of college and began nailing down all of the details-‐-‐designing and developing hardware, sourcing materials and working with factories in NYC and Italy to perfect the final samples.

"Carole" Alessia Clutch Photo by: Kerstin Hecker

WBD: Who are your biggest influences?

My biggest influences are my parents, my brother, my cousins. My family really inspires me with their knowledge, creativity, business sense, ethics, morals and compassion.

WBD: Where do you get your inspiraton for your designs?

I get my inspiration all over-‐-‐art, architecture, vintage finds, film, music, travel, nature. The collage of life is inspiring.

WBD: What is your favorite part of your job?

Being able to spend time making beautiful things!

WBD: If you had to pick one favorite piece of your collection, which one and why?

The Roll Clutch. I developed the whole thing from scratch, with all details planned very deliberately—from the size/shape of the bag (it needed to fit an iPhone), to the hand worked jeweled closure, and logo touch up mirror inside. Its sleek shape looks great covered in any type of material—from duchess satin, to brocade, to leather, to Swarovski crystal. It’s definitely a go-‐ to.

An Amanda Pearl Roll Clutch on the CW's "Gossip Girl"

WBD: Tell us one of your most memorable experiences so far in your career.

My most memorable experience, although one that is definitely a blur: Hearing my name called as the winner of the Fashion Group International Rising Star Award for Accessories. I stood there, mute and in total shock, not realizing I was supposed to take the stage and make a speech. I did finally make it up there and did make some remarks, although I couldn’t tell you what I said… I have no recollection whatsoever. I do remember the excited terror like it was yesterday, however.

WBD: What do you have coming up that you’re excited about?

I have some new product that I’m super excited about, that is going to open our doors to many more of our fans.

WBD: What advice do you have for aspiring designers?

The best thing you can do is to first get experience with another design house so you can learn what it means to be a designer. There’s a lot more that goes into being a “designer” than just designing, and your best bet is to learn from someone with experience. Beyond that, I would say don’t stop learning and informing your aesthetic. Live life, see art, enjoy what the world has to offer. You can’t design if you’re not inspired!

Amanda Pearl, Roll Clutch, Chloe Sevigny

Actress Chloe Sevigny with Amanda Pearl Roll Clutch

WBD’S FUN FIVE WITH AMANDA PEARL:

1. If you could live anywhere in the world, where would you live and why?

I would live in Seattle. It’s a ridiculously beautiful city, with mountains, water and greenery everywhere you look-‐-‐they don’t call it the “Emerald City” for nothing. Seattle has all of my favorite things in great balance: family, nature, art & culture, music, and great food.

2. If I gave you $20 to spend on anything right now, what would it be?

Fresh flowers! …and a coffee. …and maybe a donut.

3. Tell us something about yourself that would surprise people?

I like really simple, low-‐brow, naughty foods: cheeseburgers, donuts, milkshakes, stuff like that.

4. What advice would you give to your 15 year old self?

Don’t waste energy being self conscious. Be confident in who you are, whether or not you think you fit in.

5. One guilty pleasure you are not willing to give up?

Sweets.

Thanks so much Amanda, you were a pleasure!

Click here for an EXCLUSIVE offer from Amanda Pearl!

For more information:

www.amandapearl.com