Local Designer Spotlight : Hunter Bell
We’re back again this afternoon with the next installment in our “local designer spotlight” series! You can see the past ones we’ve done here and here. And today we’re excited to bring you Hunter Bell, who is the founder and designer behind her clothing line, Hunter Bell. While Hunter is from the south, she lived in New York City for quite a while, so you’ll see both southern and NYC influences in her collections, which is a perfect mix. You’ll find bold colors and unique detailing throughout her pieces. Her designs are truly beautiful! As well, Hunter has been featured in magazines such as Elle and Harper’s Bazaar, as well as on the Today show. And she’s not slowing down anytime soon (even with three littles in tow!). Keep on reading to find out what inspires Hunter on a daily basis, what a day in her life looks like, what’s next for her, and much more, including a discount code for Wear + Where + Well readers!
How long has your clothing line, Hunter Bell, been around and what inspired you to launch it?
While interning in college for Rebecca Taylor I realized I wanted to own my own business one day. After college, multiple assistant design positions that I didn’t love pushed me to launch my own venture in 2006 from a small apartment in Manhattan.
What inspires you on a daily basis when designing for your line and in general?
I pull inspiration from contemporary artists- currently coveting Selena Beaudry, architecture, music and travel. If I’m designing our holiday collection in the middle of summer I have to turn on Christmas music in the office to set the tone☺Family and friends in my life also drive creativity. A close friend of mine is a photographer in New York; her recent trip to Morocco inspired our Spring 2018 collection.
What is your favorite thing about running Hunter Bell? Most rewarding? Most challenging?
Running a business is a challenge, and you have to be ready for almost anything. Perseverance is key to a successful day. Reminding myself how far the company has come truly puts everything in perspective, even on the hardest days.
The most rewarding part of the business is creating new jobs in Houston and having a strong team in place to grow the brand. It takes a village to push ahead and accomplish your goals.
What is your current favorite piece in your collection and why?
Two items I’m coveting from the latest Fall 2017 collection are the color block lace Fawn Top and Taylor skirt to be worn together or separate.
What does a day in your life look like?
I’m a new mother to three children so just being able to get out the door before 10am, dressed and with makeup on is half the battle. I do my best to maintain a healthy work life balance. Once I’m in the office it’s usually pretty crazy!
One of the best things about my career is that you day is constantly changing. I will spend most of my time managing the team in place, responding to emails from fabric vendors, attending fittings for the new collection, designing and answering 100’s of text messages that move the business forward.
Who is the Hunter Bell customer?
A southern girl with a New York state of mind.
Aside from on your website, where else can one shop your pieces?
You can shop our pieces in high-end boutiques throughout the U.S! To name a few, Julian Gold, Cabana, and Whim. Additionally, Rent the Runway is a large account of ours.
How would you describe your personal style?
“Dressed down with a twist.” I’m moving around throughout the day and like to be comfortable.
What three items do you think every woman must have in her closet?
Every woman should have a day-to-night handbag that withstands the test of time and classic enough to be passed down to your daughter, a great pair of black pumps that pairs back to denim, and a simple understated white button down.
What is your favorite store to shop at in Houston?
Kuhl-Linscomb is my favorite shop in Houston. I could spend hours in there!
What is your favorite thing to do in Houston?
My favorite thing to do in Houston is exploring all the new restaurants with my friends. My husband and I were foodies while living in NYC and what’s great about Houston is that a new and trendy spot opens quite often.
Any future plans for Hunter Bell that you can tell us about?
Exciting things are in the works! We are brainstorming a kid’s line. My daughter Harrison has been a big inspiration. We are also exploring the idea of having a storefront so we can grow our business and online presence. We are also looking to hire more people for our production team here in Texas.
Thanks so much, Hunter!
Discount Code
Now, Hunter is generously offering 20% off with the code WEAR20, so happy shopping! We’re eyeing this skirt and this top. Have a great rest of your day and we’ll see you back here tomorrow morning!
