Amanda Valentine's Got What It Takes
Have you ever wondered what it really takes to be a fashion designer? Not just dreaming about glorious clothing combinations in your head or putting together a fabulous outfit for yourself. I'm talking about the entire process from concept to runway to racks and the kind of person it takes to see the process through to fruition.
It's my pleasure to introduce you to someone who has the vision, determination, and inexhaustible energy to be a successful fashion designer. Amanda Valentine, Music City's very own Project Runway veteran, was eliminated from the show before she had a chance to accurately present her design aesthetic to the world. But she did manage to show us all what true grace of character in a person looks like. That quality may not translate well for reality TV, but it goes a long way in making Valentine memorable with anyone she interacts with. It's also very apparent in her creations.
Photo courtesy of Lifetime TV's Project Runway
When I first met Amanda she didn't hesitate to open her arms and give me a hug. The Nebraska born youngest of five exudes a genuine warmth and grace of spirit that simply can't be faked. As I sat in on a meeting for Valentine's Spring 2014 collection I was struck by how receptive she is to the experience and wisdom of others. She wants to absorb every crumb of information that relates to the mechanics of translating the sample garments sewn by her own hand to creating pieces to be sold to the public. But when it comes to the concepts she wants to convey in her couture Amanda's vision is clear, concise, and very much her own.
Photo courtesy of Amanda Valentine
Already an accomplished and sought-after stylist Valentine is determined to create clothing that is sought after by women of all ages. Her collections are the expression of two seemingly incongruent concepts melded together into cohesive, beautifully executed fashion. Her label, Valentine Valentine, has launched six collections so far and the Fall 2013 collection was shown at Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week in New York City.
Photo courtesy of Amanda Valentine
In the next few months I'll be giving you an in-depth look at Amanda's background, her creative process, her Spring 2014 runway show and it's eventual debut for sale to the general public. If you just can't wait to get your hands on some Valentine Valentine swag, Amanda has designed some cases for the iPhone 5 which are available for sale here.
If you don't have an iPhone 5 be sure to check out Valentine Valentine's etsy store where you can find some limited edition pieces as well as Amanda's original hand drawn, hand screened in Nashville T-shirt designs. I'm sure you'll want one of each design, so to ease the impact on your wallet, Amanda has graciously given me a Double Pyramid Evil Eye shirt to give away to one of you!
The shirt is available in ladies sizes S-XL so everyone can enter and get the right fit! To enter, simply follow the instructions below. The giveaway will run for a month, ending on October 9th, and the more times you Tweet about it the better your odds are of winning!