We recently connected with Amie Hibbler and have shared our conversation below.
Amie, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today Do you wish you had started sooner?
If you had asked me that question maybe six months ago, I would have expressed a strong desire to have started my creative career much earlier. However, I’ve come to realize that everything happens in a specific timing and order for a reason. While I still believe that building my skill set sooner would have been beneficial, I also appreciate the journey I’ve taken to get here.
I officially began my design journey this year, at the end of 2023, after many ups and downs. Throughout this process, I faced numerous doubts and struggles, particularly in balancing work and life while pursuing my passion for fashion design. There were moments when I questioned if I was on the right path, but ultimately, I picked myself up upon realizing that fashion design is my true calling.
I graduated college with a degree in fashion merchandising, initially aiming to become a fashion buyer or a retail manager. In my earlier years, I settled into a managerial role, focusing all my energy on that path. However, looking back, I now recognize that while I was studying merchandising, I should have been actively developing my design skills and creating my own clothes. This would have allowed me to become more well-rounded in the fashion world and better prepared for the challenges ahead.
In hindsight, while I wish I had started building my design skills sooner, I also value the experiences and insights I’ve gained along the way. They have shaped who I am today and have ultimately fueled my determination to succeed in the fashion industry. So, rather than wishing for a different timeline, I now embrace my journey and look forward to what lies ahead.
Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.
My name is Amie Hibbler, and I am the founder of Trendy Figures—a brand, a culture, and an inclusive lifestyle for everyone. At the heart of what I do is my slogan: to cultivate an environment where people from all walks of life can feel included, look their best, and most importantly, feel their best with God at the center of it all.
My journey into fashion design began when others recognized my talents before I fully understood or embraced them myself. An old friend played a pivotal role in this awakening; he encouraged me to explore my creativity and start designing my own clothes. Initially resistant to the idea, I eventually found my passion, especially after creating a unique outfit for a Brent Faiyaz concert—a moment that ignited my fire for design. From that point on, I began documenting my creative process, which led to opportunities to showcase my work through fashion shows and game shows. I owe a huge thank you to F.A.B for pushing me towards my purpose!
The foundation of my discipline comes from my faith. I believe that my talent is a gift from God, and it is my responsibility to utilize this gift to make a meaningful difference in the world. That difference is rooted in originality. I strive to create pieces that stand out, emphasizing the importance of looking unique and encouraging others to embrace their individuality.
My designs often draw inspiration from the vibrant styles of the 90s, a decade I am absolutely obsessed with. I aim to bring new, innovative looks to the fashion landscape while ensuring that my clients feel confident and empowered in whatever they wear.
What sets Trendy Figures apart is not just the clothing itself but the care and intention behind every creation. It’s never just about the monetary value; it’s about crafting pieces that help individuals express their true selves. I want everyone who wears Trendy Figures to feel like they are stepping into their best selves, exuding confidence, and showcasing their unique style.
Ultimately, my mission is to foster a community where everyone feels valued and celebrated. I want potential clients, followers, and fans to know that when they choose Trendy Figures, they are investing in more than just fashion— they are embracing a lifestyle rooted in originality, creativity, and faith.
Are there any resources you wish you knew about earlier in your creative journey?
Absolutely, I wish I had discovered the creative community in the St. Louis area earlier in my journey. I spent a significant amount of time unaware of the vibrant network of creatives and individuals who are dedicated to making a difference in the fashion industry and expressing themselves fully.
Once I began to connect with others, I realized that meeting one person can lead to an abundance of opportunities to meet others, ultimately forming a supportive community. It’s amazing how quickly you can establish connections with like-minded individuals who are passionate about their craft. This network has provided me with invaluable support, collaboration opportunities, and resources that I never knew existed.
As I go through this early stage of my career, I’m excited about the resources and connections that I’ve come across so far. The community has been incredibly welcoming, encouraging creativity and collaboration. I look forward to continuing to build these relationships and tapping into the wealth of knowledge and support that surrounds me. It’s an inspiring environment that I wish I had been a part of sooner, but I’m grateful to be a part of it now.
Is there something you think non-creatives will struggle to understand about your journey as a creative? Maybe you can provide some insight – you never know who might benefit from the enlightenment.
Non-creatives might not fully understand the emotional ups and downs that come with being a creative. One of the biggest struggles is dealing with self-doubt and the fear of what others might think. I’ve found that the creative journey is often filled with uncertainty, and it’s all too easy to become your harshest critic.
If you’re feeling this way, my advice is simple: stop doubting yourself and pay attention to that inner voice encouraging you to chase your passion. That voice is there for a reason—it’s pushing you to take that leap of faith. Most of the time, the only thing standing in your way is you.
It’s crucial to choose faith over fear. Believe that you have something special to share with the world. From my experience, embracing that faith has led to opportunities I never imagined. So if you’re hesitant about pursuing your creative dreams, just take that step forward. Trust yourself and your unique abilities—you might be surprised at what you can accomplish!
Image Credits
Hannah Teverbaugh