Get to know Fashion Designer, J'Amy Tarr

Mill Valley is home to many accomplished individuals. One such talent is Fashion Designer, J'Amy Tarr. J'Amy was born and raised here in Mill Valley. She is a Maker at heart, just like her dad, and loves the whole development process of fashion design. J'Amy is inspired in particular by the Bay Area microclimates and the need for an outerwear layer all-year round. Out of necessity came ingenuity as exemplified by J'Amy's beautiful line of jackets, coats and capes - designed for all occasions. I had the privilege to get a guided tour of J'Amy's Mill Valley Studio. I was impressed not only with the quality of J'Amy's products, which are cut in Oakland and sewn in San Francisco, but with her attention to the needs of her clients. She truly cares that you look and feel great at whatever event you may have.

According to J'Amy, "the most exciting part of the whole business is when my customers tell me where they wore their pieces! Sometimes it's for a special occasion, a job interview, a high profile news or sports reporting gig or a trip to another country. It's magical to hear how people have enjoyed their J'Amy Tarr jackets, coats and capes! It's definitely the best feeling in the world to hear my customers living their best lives." So, let's check out some of my favorite pieces of her line and start living our best lives too!

Please note: J'Amy primarily sells her products online and can also be reached by phone at 415-450-9677 if you would like to make a studio appointment (38 Miller Ave.) .

*Black and white cover photo credit: Sarah Deragon, @sarahderagon

My Curious List:

Floral Faux Fur Bomber Jacket - As many of you know, I love florals, especially combined with black to give the softer, romantic pattern a little edge. This bomber jacket would be perfect over a little LBD or with black jeans and a tank top.

Jet Black Japanese Wool Moto Jacket: - This jacket is hip, tailored and extremely versatile; throw it on over your yoga pants or a cocktail dress and you will instantly feel pulled together. This version, in black wool, is a basic item that will be a closet staple for years to come. There are other colors and fabrics to choose from in this silhouette, including Moire which is a silk fabric that has been treated to have a ripple affect. (See, you just learned a fancy new apparel word)

Salmon Japanese Wool Biker Jacket: Now to "kick it up a fashion notch" as J'Amy would say, check out this beautiful jacket with a removable faux fur collar. The collar is perfect for a colder evening or if you'd like to make more of a fashion statement. This Biker jacket is a longer length than the Moto jacket above. J'Amy prefers using Japanese wool as it has a very soft feel, like cashmere. J'Amy also has a selection of faux fur collars in her studio and these collars work not only with the Biker Jacket but also with the Blanket Coat, Kimono GT, Moto, and Short Kimono. At only $80, the removable collar is a great investment. Get a few to change up your look.

Kimono GT in Camel- As styles are shifting to puffy shoulders and bell sleeves, this Kimono coat can handle it. It's intentionally oversized and roomy, with a clean and modern silhouette. Think of this coat as an oversized cardigan. If you want to have a more fitted look, just size down. Comes in two other colors: a warm rust and black.

Faux Fur Caplet: - Wow- this piece is so stunning. The "star" color below brings out the texture of the faux fur and has such a beautiful sheen. J'Amy has captured old school glamour with this piece which also comes in colors onyx and smoke.

This a just a sample of the jackets available online and in J'Amy's studio. J'Amy started her fashion career in NYC, and we are lucky to have her as a fashion resource here in little Mill Valley. Here is J'Amy wearing one of her jackets below (far right) along with (right to left) myself, Kellie and Deborah at the Mill Valley Film Festival- trying to live our best lives ; )

Happy Thanksgiving to you and your family