Meet Amanda Jacobs of Classic Reclaim in Anthem

Amanda, can you briefly walk us through your story – how you started and how you got to where you are today.
I am originally from New York, and while growing up, I first learned how to sew when I was 6 or so, my aunt is a designer and creative genius. As I got older, I started to pull apart my clothes and Re-design clothing to make it what I wanted. I didn’t have any pattern usage skills but could sew, and so it became natural to do this to my wardrobe since I didn’t know how to make anything “new” yet.

My Grandmother had great style so I would raid her closet and find outfits to out together and re-arrange how I wanted. This is the start of my reclaiming addiction

Fast Forward: Attend College: Parents allow me to switch my major (thank goodness!) Receive a BA in Textiles, Apparel, and Merchandising, with a Business Minor.

After obtaining a BA in Textiles and Apparel Merchandising from West Virginia University, I began my career at Saks Fifth Avenue, Biltmore AZ, working with the personal shopping and styling club.

“Working with some of the best stylists and designers in the industry has allowed me the insight and knowledge to re-design special items and the bravery to indulge in some of my crazy design techniques.”

I am currently teaching a career and technical education class, Fashion Design & Merchandising, in the Phoenix Union High School District and will begin my 6th year in the Fall. I am able to take my love and passion for sewing and the fashion and consumer science industry and teach young creative minds.

I have been married for ten years and have three children. I live in Anthem, AZ.

“I LOVE to create one of a kind garments from items that are so often overlooked, and only because their true potential can’t be seen. I can imagine what it will look like after a few hours of work! Long Live the thrift!”

Has it been a smooth road?
There are always obstacles and struggles along the way, but this is the only way to grow and change. I am very fortunate to be surrounded by so many loving and supportive people!

So, as you know, we’re impressed with Classic Reclaim – tell our readers more, for example, what you’re most proud of as a company and what sets you apart from others.
Classic Reclaim is a sustainable clothing company that transforms classic thrift store finds into one of a kind fashion garments and accessories!

A few years ago, I was given a few great vintage items from family members:

“I have held onto this dress for 45 years, I wore it to my engagement party in 1974 and just couldn’t part with it. I didn’t want to just donate it, even though I never wore it again. I held onto it because it means so much to me. You should have it because I know you will do something great to it.”

They knew I sewed and trusted in the fact that I was going to allow those special memories to continue to live on in what I will create with that garment. It was emotional every time like a tradition was being passed down, and it was up to me to breath new life into it and offer it to someone else so they can love it just as much as the original owner.

That’s when I knew there was something so special about reclaiming clothing!

Is there anyone, in particular, you would like to recognize? Mentors, etc.?
My family has been a huge supporter of my work and are always offering love and assistance whenever I need it.

Phoenix Fashion Week’s 4 part workshop on “building your brand” really sparked the light to offer my creations to the world. The information and support I have gotten is incredible!

The Sustainable community in Arizona is such an amazing group of people that care deeply about making positive changes in the industry. Arizona Sustainable Fashion is a group that has been extremely supportive of eco-fashion and sustainability! Laura Madden is a driving force in this pursuit. The Garment League is another great fashion supporter in the community as well!