“My favorite fashion icon has always been Coco Chanel for her trend-setting styles, such as the ‘little black dress.’ But most importantly for showing women they can be independent and create their own life.”—Amy Marie Goetz

The excitement of watching a new designer develop her first collection and of watching the details of how a show will evolve makes the planning all the more intriguing.  Amy was introduced to us a few months ago when we were searching for a worthy candidate for Agenda Foundation’s fundraiser, held at our new fashion venue, Agenda Loft.  Amy Marie was everything we were looking for and more.  She is not only passionate about her work and tireless in her efforts to make her brand known, but her designs are also beautiful, well crafted, and uniquely inspired.

Questions by Kaylene Peoples (bold)
Responses by Amy Marie Goetz

How did you get started in fashion design: your education, people you’ve worked for, etc.; how long you’ve been designing?

I began fashion design at a very young age. Being that I followed a private school strict dress code, I often found myself wanting to express my own identity through clothing and attempted to find ways to create garments. Later, I was influenced by my neighbor who was a seamstress. She would construct garments for me based on my ideas and fabric selections. Each day I would check on the status. Soon to follow, I was determined to create a life in fashion design. Actually, I graduated a year early from high school to attend Miami International University of Art & Design, Miami, Florida, where I received my associate degree in fashion design. Thereafter, I obtained my bachelor’s degree in fashion design from University of Cincinnati’s Design Architecture Art and Planning Program.  Now, looking back I can see how much fashion has been a part of my entire life.

Why did you decide to design luxury?

I’ve always been the type of designer who strives to create high ideals in design. With so many growing labels around, I feel that the majority do not focus on originality and high quality. I’d rather take time to listen to customers’ needs and desires and forecast a collection with artistry and original design elements. My passion is to create couture styles where I spend quality time designing and achieve an overall Amy Marie style that is timeless instead of trendy and fast fashion. Exclusive design in silhouette and modern drape create Amy Marie signature design aesthetic.

My favorite fashion icon has always been Coco Chanel for her trend-setting styles, such as the “little black dress.” But most importantly for showing women they can be independent and create their own life. Through fashion design, she always stayed motivated and created her own path to follow, which I have much respect for.

You’re about to launch your first collection at Agenda Loft on February 3.  What are you doing to prepare for that launch?

I’ve spent many months preparing. I’ve had to handle all aspects of Amy Marie Goetz Company. Starting with design, I’ve managed to create a line of high-end dress wear as well as introduce my ready-to-wear label, AMGoetz. To ensure high quality production is based in LA, I have direct contact with my team at all times to make sure each piece meets high quality standards and time management.  Also, many meetings spent with fabric and trim distributors. I’ve also had to pull together a strong team of individuals that believe in the growth of Amy Marie label. We are committed to offering a product that influences women to feel confident, beautiful, and as unique individuals. To me, it’s all about creating a product that uplifts another woman’s life. This is my motivation to create my own label, Amy Marie.

What is inspiring this collection?  Tell us about your association with Parisian painter Michael Stervinou and how you are incorporating some of his prints into your runway show.

Amy Marie Collection is inspired by modern artists of today, especially by Parisian painter Michael Stervinou. After viewing online artwork images, I was instantly inspired by his use of bold color and abstract proportions—the way color in itself influences a mood. Each print makes an individual feel energetic and passionate.  Even though both Michael and I were from two separate parts of the world, I was persistent to work with him. Being Amy Marie design philosophy is based on originality, we are offering a line of fabric prints sold exclusively through our own collection. This way there will be no other style like Amy Marie.

What have been the highs as a designer?  Any Lows?

Originally a Kentucky native, I feel the perks of being a fashion designer are that you are able to travel and stay in the most metropolitan capitals of the world, such as New York, LA, and Miami. My life has been an adventurous journey where I’ve been able to meet a variety of compelling individuals who have benefited my life in a positive way. These experiences would not have been made if it weren’t for fashion. Fashion has enriched my life, and I’m thankful each day for all it brings. I’m able to express my experiences and feelings through each new Amy Marie style. Each new day I grow as a fashion designer.

What advice would you give to an aspiring designer, if any?

The advice I would give to a fashion designer is simply “NEVER GIVE UP.”  The journey can be difficult and things may not go as planned; however, when you stay persistent, you will always find a way. Believe in yourself because if you don’t, no one else will.

Any last words?

Even though I’m extremely independent and worked hard to get to where I’m at now, I couldn’t have done so without all the amazing individuals in my life. Thanks to all who have supported Amy Marie Goetz fashion.  To my customers and friends, I will strive to design styles that enrich each life to the fullest just as they have enriched my own life.  To Agenda Magazine, thank you for making a dream come true in my very first LA fashion show!  To my family and friends who have supported me from the very beginning, may we all have much success and happiness in our lives!

Where can people find your designs?  Your website?

Amy Marie Goetz Collection is sold exclusively online, www.amymariegoetz.com.
You may also view my Facebook fashion fan page, http://www.facebook.com/home.php#!/pages/AMG-Amy-Marie-Goetz/104088042988326
Custom-made designs offered by appointment only.

If you could describe yourself in one or two sentences, what would you say?

Amy Marie Goetz is compassionate, determined, and lives life with no regrets.