Farm from Home: Interview with Amanda Brooks
The style icon and former Barneys New York fashion director talks about her new book Farm from Home and the opening of her new store.
Amanda Brooks, style icon and former Barneys New York fashion director, recently authored Farm from Home, a book which chronicles a year of her life in the English countryside.
Having lived most of her life in New York City, her move to the Cotswolds inspired her to create a collection of pictures, stories, and family recipes to depict her treasured, rural life with a focus on simplicity.
Amanda sat down with BWB to talk about her new book and the opening of her store Cutter Brooks in Stowe, England.
The inspiration for your new book…
I have been inspired by the adventure of leaving behind a comfortable life and career in New York City and moving to the English countryside. I wanted to try something completely different. I wanted to share my enthusiasm for my new surroundings and all the activities and routines that so energize me. At the same time, it was also important to share the challenges and struggles so the reader would have a sense of what a big life change is really like.
photograph by Christopher Brooks
An activity at Fairgreen Farm that is particularly special to you…
Walking up the gallops (where the horses train) with my dog at sunrise or sunset! It never gets old.
You have recently announced you will be opening a shop in the countryside near your farm. Please tell us more about your plans and what we can expect!
Cutter Brooks is a chic country store selling homewares and clothing inspired by country living. It’s a shop curated by an American, inspired by England, and mostly sourced from Europe. It is quite a personal mix.
Brands we are selling include:
HOME: Cabana tabletop and furniture created by Cabana Magazine founder Martina Mondadori Sartogo (exclusive merchandise) ♥ John Derian decorative glass ♥ Astier de Villatte ceramics and scented products ♥ Maison des Vacances table linens ♥ Jean Dubost bamboo flatware ♥ Mira Santo china
FASHION: Khaite ♥ Masscob ♥ Soeur ♥ Ulla Johnson ♥ Sea NY ♥ Giuliva Heritage Collection outerwear ♥ Loretta Caponi nightgowns (exclusive in UK)
ACCESSORIES: Maison Michel hats ♥ Carrie Forbes shoes ♥ Le Monde Beryl shoes ♥ Rosa de la Cruz jewelery ♥ LSJ Studios scrunchies (made from Hermes and Liberty silk scarves)
BEAUTY AND HOME FRANGRANCE: Buly 1803 (sole wholesale account)
VINTAGE: Hermes playing cards ♥ Gucci 1970’s Flora ashtrays in original packaging (wrapped in matching 70’s Gucci Flora wrapping paper) ♥ American late 19th century quilts
photograph by Chris Floyd
Some of your favorite ways to relax and unwind…
Running and riding are my go-to ways to clear my head and stay in shape.
Your skincare routine…
I use Sisley skincare exclusively – cleanser, serum, and moisturizer.
Favorite fragrance…
Molecule 01 by Escentric Molecules
Recent memorable trip/hotel stay…
I just returned from Lisbon. I loved the food, the tiles, the museums and the seaside. Sintra is one of the most beautiful places I’ve ever been.
Your favorite designer at the moment…
I adore both Khaite and Hesperios for day and night.
On your nightstand…
Gone to Ground, a true story of a German Jewish woman who survived the Holocaust. It is candid and moving.
Someone who inspires you…
My college friend Tracee Ellis Ross, who is hilarious, empowered, articulate, fearless and driven. I am so happy for her success and that the rest of the world is getting to witness her brilliance.
Katie von Strasser is a former ballerina with a background in fashion and art. She is a devoted advocate for people with disabilities. Katie has a passion for travel and all things beautiful.
She resides in San Francisco with her family. (Photo by Darryl Nitke)
I wanted to share my enthusiasm for my new surroundings.
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