The Founder of Tibi Reveals the Most Adaptable Piece in Her Closet

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      Tibi Founder Amy Smilovic Discusses Fashion Risks That Pay Off | Who What Wear - YouTube

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      Amy Smilovic, the founder and creative director of Tibi, finds inspiration at any moment. "It can really come to you that quickly if you step outside your environment—whether that’s your office or in front of your computer. You have to get outside," Smilovic explained. "That’s how to make it happen more quickly." In the latest episode of The Who What Wear Podcast, she discusses the design process for her brand's new collection, her motivation behind her second book, Almost Reckless, her most versatile clothing item, and more. To read excerpts from the entire discussion, scroll down.

      Could you provide some background on Tibi and the brand's core values?

      Tibi is a global, independent brand, and it has always been so. I founded it in 1997 while living in Hong Kong. We're approaching our 30th anniversary, making us the oldest, longest-standing independent designer brand in America. There aren’t many independent brands left. I can confidently say that, and our focus is on ready-to-wear and sportswear—styles that we are passionate about. It’s a company driven by creativity, showcasing collections at New York Fashion Week and Paris twice a year—that’s essentially it.

      Amy Smilovic

      Almost Reckless

      What inspired you to write this second book? Who was your audience?

      I wrote Almost Reckless to help individuals regain their instinct or refine and develop it. This is particularly crucial today, as we find ourselves in a world dominated by AI. We are inundated with data and algorithms that present a seemingly definitive path forward. I fundamentally disagree with that perspective. When we lose our instincts and rely solely on algorithms, we start to view life through a rearview mirror, right? Almost Reckless aims to assist people in gaining clarity on what success means for them, enabling them to use these principles as guidelines for creating their own paths. Once you understand your identity and set your principles, utilizing them as guardrails allows you to advance at what may appear reckless speeds to outsiders, yet it brings a sense of comfort in knowing your own direction.

      Tibi

      Crispy Nylon Stella Short

      Tibi

      Ribbed Sweater Tube Top

      I know you’re soon launching the fall '26 collection and fall '26 fundamentals. Can you describe your approach to designing a new collection? Do you actively seek inspiration, or does it come more naturally?

      Inspiration arrives spontaneously. One moment, you might be on a train and see a book cover next to you, sparking the thought, "Oh my god, what is that book? What’s the title? What colors are those?" And then you're off and running. It really can come that suddenly, but you must step outside your bubble—whether that’s in your office or at your computer. You need to get out there; that’s key to speeding up the process. Traci [Bui-Amar] and I have a Canva setup where we start tossing in elements we find appealing, often with me trying to convince her of something she’s not into or vice versa.

      Tibi

      Creased Stretch Crepe Racerback Dress

      What’s the most versatile item in your wardrobe at the moment?

      I would say it’s probably a wide-leg pair of nylon trousers. They can look sporty or professional. I can convert them into joggers or roll them up. The pieces I can’t live without fall into our fundamentals category. When an item becomes a fundamental, it signifies that it has proven its worth to remain in our closet essentially forever. Nothing is permanent, but earning that designation is a significant accolade for the garment.

      Tibi

      Stella Crispy Nylon Pleated Cargo Pant

      Tibi

      Gabe Oversized Shirt

      Tibi

      Circular Fine Rib T-Shirt Tank

      Tibi

      Summer Voile Stella Pant With Slit Detail

      This interview has been edited and condensed for clarity.