In Conversation with Amy Breen

Tell us about your background: 

I started in costume design, volunteering at any theater company that would have me. I just fell in love with the art of creating clothing. After graduating from Moore College of Art & Design, I made a decision to not go to NY right away and take some time to explore a little more. I worked with designer Aurelio Costarella in Perth, Australia for four months and created my own clothing line in Nashville, TN for four years. I moved to NY after missing this city and a want to learn more. I freelanced for JCREW for my first year in NY before finding a new job at TOME as their head designer. I was there for almost five years. I now have been using this time to explore again. Continue to learn, fail, and adapt. I once again have remembered the love of creating clothing and want to move forward, holding value in what I create.

What do you wish you’d known when you started out?

The best people work behind the scenes. They are the backbone of the industry and some of the most talented. The spotlight can be wonderful, but the ins and outs of a company or the people you never see. Be wonderful to them!

Best career advice you've ever received?

The best career advice was from Betty, a fellow server at a diner I worked at when I was sixteen. Betty found me crying by the coffee urns after a table told my manager I was the worst server they ever had. Betty told me to dry my eyes and get back out there. She told me to go do what I came there to do. To this day, when I ever feel like I failed, I think of Betty. To pick yourself up and go get back out there. Just go do what you set out to do.

What leadership qualities are important to you?

Patience and kindness. People are inspired when you take the time to teach them. When people are inspired, they work harder. They hold passion.

What has been the biggest challenge in your career so far? 

Learning to have a work-life balance. Learning I can love my job, but it doesn't need to consume my whole life.

And for fun, what is your favorite wardrobe staple?

A classic fit Levi’s jeans. I also adored the commercials and would watch them repeatedly. Jeans are and have always been a classic piece to me.

LinkedIn URL: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amykbreen/

Instagram: @amy_k_bb