Alumna’s AMUR design worn by president’s granddaughter
2018 Apparel Design and Manufacturing (ADM) alumna Raegan McGuire recently landed the opportunity of a lifetime. The A Mindful Use of Resources (AMUR) designer had one of her latest dress designs worn by Natalie Biden on the Today Show – granddaughter to President Joe Biden.
"Having a piece we designed in the news was such a surreal experience," McGuire said.
"We think she must have bought it herself or a stylist bought it for her, which is
one of the most flattering things that could ever happen. It's so flattering because
I am sure a million designers and brands would have given them something completely
for free, and she chose to buy one of our pieces."
McGuire explained that Biden's dress, The Calliope Dress, was inspired by the English countryside.
"I like to think glam meets equestrian stable girl," McGuire said. "It is a 100% silk matte charmeuse mock neck dress with tie details along the sleeve and neckline. It was one of our best sellers from fall 2020 and can still be found on our website."
After working with AMUR for over a year, McGuire has immersed herself in its concept of sustainable fashion design.
"We focus on the concept that great style does not have to come at the expense of our environment, and that design can strike a balance between beauty and good intentions," McGuire said. "I love not only being able to design beautiful clothes but also the challenge to always find a new way to be more sustainable in every collection."
Looking back on her experience in Texas Tech's fashion design classes, McGuire notes that the program is unmatched in its ability to prepare students for real-world design.
"The number one thing that sets TTU apart from the rest is the work ethic standard that is set the moment you walk into your first class. The fashion industry is hard work, and a lot is expected from your first day. Texas Tech prepares students for the hard work and essential skills as early as their first internship. It also doesn't just focus on the creative side of fashion design, which surprisingly is only a small part of being a designer. They teach anything and everything in the classroom to prepare you to be versed from the beginning to the end of the design and production process."
Moving forward, McGuire plans to continue her design work with AMUR.
"I have been given such amazing opportunities that most people my age take years to reach. I want to learn and soak in as much as I can," McGuire said. "I one day would love to have a contemporary brand of my very own, and who knows, maybe many more amazing people will be seen wearing it."