Today as a part of our Behind The Seams with A.K. Rikk's series we’d like to introduce our Director of Women's and Personal Shopper, Blair Dame. He has been a part of our family for eight years. Blair Dame has always had a love for fashion, as he explains, "I wake up every morning looking at fashion - it makes me breathe. I am very visual and this is what channels my life!" Hear Blair's style advice and first designer piece he purchased through a series of questions in our eleventh Behind The Seams with A.K. Rikk's interview.
How long have you been in the fashion world?
I started in the fashion community in the late seventies when fashion was changing very rapidly. My first fashion job was a Personal Shopper at Rogers Department Store which I worked at for thirty five years.
Best piece of style advice to give to someone?
I believe you have to learn who you are and be proud of your style. Wear it and own it. Confidence in your style is what speaks.
You're at a dinner party. Describe your go-to outfit...
I wear a lot of solids with texture and detail. I like to accessorize with the right pieces to make the outfit special. Less can be more.
Designer everyone should know about?
Ralph Lauren.
The first designer piece you ever bought? Do you still own in?
It was Ralph Lauren. In the eighties, I was on one of my first buying trips in NYC and I remember telling myself I had to visit the Polo store at the Rhinelander Mansion on New York's Upper East Side. It was one of those moments I knew I was never going to forget. I still remember I was shaking when I walked up to the register. It was a wax coated trench coat with a cashmere lining - I will never part with this piece.
Favorite part of going to Market?
There are many wonderful parts about being part of the buying team for A.K. RIKK'S. For me, my favorite part is the relationships we build and the knowledge we gain from the designers in the fashion industry.
That concludes our eleventh Behind The Seams with A.K. RIKK’S series interview. Next time you shop with us make sure you say “Hi” to Blair! If you love Blair's style and would like him to help you express yours – schedule a complimentary Personal Shopping appointment below.