rachelschwartzmann@yahoo.com
If you’re a regular follower, you’ve probably noticed the recent influx of my personal style posts all having to do with the brand ADDISON… and I can explain. It’s simple really, I’m obsessed. Not only with the gorgeous and on-trend clothing, but with the aesthetic, mission statement and the girls behind this inspiring brand. ADDISON is the epitome of perfect for every downtown dreamer living in New York City. I’ve been lucky enough to work with the amazing team behind the label and I am now completely reassured of the fact that their integrity and passion are the key ingredients that make ADDISON truly unique - and lively too! Amy Hsiung, lead designer and founder of ADDISON willingly took time out of her schedule to chat with us about what’s in store for ADDISON, and here’s a bit of what she had to say!
How, when and why did you first get into fashion?
I fell in love with fashion at a very young age but I didn’t make it my career until much later. I made clothes for my doll as a child and I also altered and modified my clothes all the time. I didn’t pursue a fashion career though until after college. I went to business school first and worked in advertising as an account executive for a little bit when finally, I gave in to my creative side and decided to go back to school for fashion. I have to thank my parents for pushing me to go to business school first even though I didn’t want to. It’s helped a lot with ADDISON.
Tell us a little about your artistic endeavors.
I plan to start an ADDISON jewelry and shoe line in a few years. Outside of fashion, I love to write music and perform. I was in an electronic rock band before I started ADDISON but I had to stop ‘cause there wasn’t time to do both. I would love to get back into it soon though!
Describe your design process. What do you consider a constant source of inspiration?
I trust my gut and intuition….what I feel is new. I get bored very easily which I think helps make me a successful designer. ADDISON is about interesting pieces that my girl can incorporate into her own individual style…so I am constantly inspired by my fashionistas….street style, NYC girls, bloggers and stylists. It’s all about how each girl pairs the pieces together and how they style their outfit to make their statement. When I design, I see the outfit rather than the individual pieces.
Can you tell us a bit about ADDISON and the mission of the brand?
ADDISON launched in 2009 to fill a void for the downtown girl: unique fashion pieces at a great contemporary opening price point. ADDISON is for the girl who wants fun and interesting yet versatile and wearable pieces. We continue to help support every girl’s individuality; to create pieces that can be easily reworked in her wardrobe in a functional and interesting way. The aesthetic of the brand is fun and effortless - clean and cool with a feminine touch, wearable and versatile, classic yet innovative.
Who is the ADDISON girl? Who do you picture when you are designing?
The ADDISON girl is free spirited but very driven, especially in her career. They embody the “work hard, play hard” mentality. I picture girls like Liz from the blog Late Afternoon and Blair from Atlantic Pacific. Their styles are so effortless but impactful. They use interesting but understated pieces to create these fun and eye-catching outfits without screaming “hey, look at me!”. (see attached write up about “The ADDISON Girl”)
What are your future hopes for ADDISON?
I would love for ADDISON to become a lifestyle brand. I want to offer the complete ADDISON look from head to toe as well as collaborate with ADDISON’s favorite artists, musicians, and interior decorators to create other ADDISON products outside of apparel. That would be a dream! But I always have to remind myself that it’s going to take some time and that it can’t happen overnight. I’m so impatient!
Do you have any other aspirations outside of your career? Would you ever consider experimenting in other sectors of the fashion industry?
As I had mentioned, I would love to get back into music. I also want to experiment with acting. I think it’s a great creative outlet from real life. I’m thinking about taking classes over the summer just for fun. I have also thought about teaching and opening up a restaurant. I’m all over the place but I think that’s good…I just wish there was more time!
How would you describe your personal style?
It really depends on my mood and what year you ask me. Right now, I would say Boho chic with a preppy edge. Does that make sense?
What advice do you have for aspiring fashion designers?
Make sure you really love fashion. It’s a tough industry. You have to have a thick skin for it.
