Background: After a stint in the business world, Beach left to pursue her lifelong dreams of being a fashion designer. She graduated from Columbia College’s fashion-design program in May 2007.
The Pieces: Heavy on bright, bold colors and super-feminine cuts, the sassy designs combine an element of West Coast energy with a bit of southern flair. Beach describes them as “a punch of personality.”
Designer inspirations: Marc Jacobs, Vivienne Westwood, Zac Posen, Nanette Lepore
Chicago Inspirations: “The people. I love the diversity that’s here; the progressive, forward thinking. You’re surrounded by artistic, passionate people, and the city is so alive with so much energy and opportunities that it fascinates me. ”
On being a designer in Chicago: “There are lots of opportunities and organizations right now, and there’s a big sense of community; a support system.”
What to look for: A summer trunk show and the launch of the Amberlynn Designs online store.
Where to find Amberlynn Designs: Wolfbait and B Girls, couturecandy.com.