TIBI
Written and interview by Erica Wark, Freelance fashion journalist
Tibi is rapidly expanding and up and coming contemporary brand that is about to explode around the world. With its ten collections per year, complete shoe line, swimwear and even home accessories, Amy Smilovic, the designer of this unique and inspiring brand, is on her way to becoming a true house hold name. Despite her incredible success, Smilovic still hand designs a range of prints and styles to match her own personal taste and unique approach to dressing.Tibi is currently one of the largest contemporary lines found in over 600 specialty stores and high-end department stores including Holt Renfew in Canada. Smilovic has also formed a large celebrity following with the likes of Scarlett Johansson, Cameron Diaz, Olivia Palermo, Kate Hudson, Vanessa Hudgens and Eva Mendes (to name a few). I was lucky to speak further with Amy, and discover a bit more on what makes her tick. Tibi is rapidly expanding and up and coming contemporarybrand that is about to explode around the world. With its ten collections per year, complete shoe line, swimwear and even homeaccessories, Amy Smilovic, the designer of this unique and inspiring brand, is on her way to becoming a true house hold name. Despite her incredible success, Smilovic still hand designs a range of prints and styles to match her own personal taste and unique approachto dressing.Tibi is currently one of the largest contemporary lines found in over 600 specialty stores and high-end department stores including Holt Renfew in Canada. Smilovic has also formed a large celebrity following with the likes of Scarlett Johansson, Cameron Diaz, Olivia Palermo, Kate Hudson, Vanessa Hudgens and Eva Mendes (to name a few).I was lucky to speak further with Amy, and discover a bit more on what makes her tick.
Erica: Why did you decide to become a clothing designer?
Amy: I’ve always wanted to own my own business and my creative inspiration started at such a young age, my father & grandfather are artists and I definitely take after them in that respect. I moved to Hong Kong in 1997 with my husband, Frank Smilovic while he worked for American Express. The chance to travel, combine with what I saw as an opportunity in the market for luxury designs at accessible prices in the market, turned into Tibi. My coll
ection started with just a few well made and unique pieces that were exactly what I wanted to wear as an expatriate living in Hong Kong.
Erica: What’s your favourite fashion piece in your closet right now?
Amy: It’s been insanely hot in New York all summer so my go-to top is a Tibi silk racerback cami, we’ve made them in solids and prints and they go with & under anything, so completely easy. My favourite pairings are with a tea length full skirt & belt or printed shorts.
Erica: Where’s your favourite place to shop?
Amy: I absolutely love C Madeleines in Miami for vintage; I always find something that inspires a print or silhouette. The fabric shows in Paris cannot be missed. They’re usually the focal point for my upcoming collections and I manage to sneak in some flea markets and antique shopping for my home.
Erica: How would you describe your style?
Amy: I spend a little time each day making sure I look put together but effortless, I like to incorporate contrast masculine & feminine, neutral & bold, simple & embellished.
Erica: Who’s your style icon?
Amy: All the Charlie’s Angels are just so chic & genuine I think, and I’ve always noted Lauren Hutton & Jane Birkin. I think the common thread is that these women always look so sharp and fashionable, but not like they have a stylist standing 2 feet away just outside the frame, you know? Just real enough to be believable but utterly gorgeous.
Erica: Who are your favourite designers?
Amy: Miu Miu, Chloe & Stella are perennial favs, my favourite Resort 2011 collection was Celine-the trousers, the colours and those shoes! It was so well edited and glamorous without being a bit over the top.
Erica: Where do you hope the TIBI brand is headed in the next 5 years?
Amy: We’re working on consistently updating and keeping our business current. Our website, our New York store, and some exciting new partnerships are all in the works-so keep your eyes out. I think in 5 years we’ll see an even greater increase in international business; this is a rapidly growing market for us. Online sales will be a very large part as well. And a few more free standing stores in strategic market places.
