Today as a part of our Behind The Seams with A.K. Rikk's series we’d like to introduce our Assistant to the President, Men's Merchandise Coordinator, and Finance Manager, Amy Carpentier. She has been a part of our family for almost ten years. Amy finds inspiration from many outlets, including her peers. She explains, "I have the luxury of working with an eclectic group of individuals here at A.K. RIKK'S with each of them having varying interests and passions which inspires me to grow. I know I can go to any of my co-workers and get insight, whether that be about music, art, or fashion." Get to know why Amy is looking forward to Men's Fall Fashion through a series of questions in our thirteenth Behind The Seams with A.K. Rikk's interview.
How did A.K. Rikk's come on your radar?
I was on summer break in 2007 from studying Marketing at Arizona State University and I was in need of a job. My mom suggested I should apply at A.K. RIKK'S because my dad had bought a tuxedo from there about six months prior and really enjoyed his experience. I remember walking in to the store and speaking to Jim Murray who was at the time the General Manager for a part-time job. I was hired as a Visual Intern for summers and winters while I was on break from college.
You just returned from NYC from Men’s Fall Winter '17 Market… what is your feeling about the upcoming season?
Men’s fall fashion is trending more casual in terms of layering and knits - which is different than the traditional collared shirts and dress pant. We witnessed a lot of mixtures of different eye-catching patterns. I felt as though every designer was extremely inspired this collection. There was a cohesive vision and inventive design within every line. When you feel the designer is inspired, you in-turn feel inspired. The strongest pieces' energy transfers from idea to design to store to client.
The first designer piece you ever bought?
Adam Lippes. I bought a black long sleeve dress which I still own. I actually won a dress from Adam Lippes in a contest a long time ago, and I still own that as well. I really enjoy the simple designs and attention to the understated details that come through his pieces.
What season do you enjoy dressing for the most?
Tough question because I favor certain things about both summer and winter. I really love boots. I enjoy fall footwear but my summer wardrobe is easier. My go-to outfit is something beachy - cute tank tops and shorts.
What is on your travel bucket list?
I have two places that I can't wait to visit one day. I would love to go to Morocco. Every picture I've ever seen of Morocco, whether on Instagram or in a book, shows the amazing colors and vibrancy. The other place on my list is definitely Japan. There are extremely intriguing men’s designs that come from Japan and I would love to see them with my own eyes walking down the streets.
If you could spend a day in the company of anyone, living or dead, who would you spend it with?
I would spend the day with Beyonce, and we would start by doing a dance class in Los Angeles. Then we would probably go hang out with Jay Z and the kids- perhaps have a nice brunch.
That concludes this Behind the Seams with A.K. Rikk's series interview. Next time you shop with us, make sure you say “Hi” to Amy!