Welcome to The Basket Weave,
our new monthly series profiling inspiring leaders, female founders and tastemakers
in their respective fields namely fashion, media, and interiors. Get to know
these empowered and influential women through a personal lens as we discuss
sentimental travel, seeking inspiration, and, of course, Pamela Munson handbags.
We hope you enjoy getting to know these inspiring women, each with unique paths
and purpose, as much as we do.
Interview with Hunter Bell, Founder and Designer of Hunter Bell NYC
Our special guest this month is Hunter Bell: Mother, Designer, and Founder of Hunter Bell NYC. Hunter studied fashion design at the University of Alabama and Parsons in New York before founding her eponymous label out of her Manhattan apartment in 2006 with a rebrand in 2013. Hunter was drawn to design because she was inspired by the joy it ignites in others and wanted her collections to do just that. Her love of travel and searching for the unexpected is an integral element to so many of her prints and special textiles throughout her collections.
Hunter currently lives in Texas with her husband and three children. We had the pleasure of interviewing Hunter this month after connecting here in NYC.
How and when did you decide to launch Hunter Bell?
In 2006, I launched Hunter Bell out of my Manhattan apartment. I had interned and worked as a design assistant at other contemporary brands - Nanette Lepore and Rebecca Taylor - and knew I wanted to start my own line. I was drawn to design because I am inspired by the joy it ignites in others and want my collections to do just that. Our clothes evolve season-to-season, but the attitude doesn’t change—it’s all about pieces that are fun, functional, and feminine, that women all over the world can layer into their lives without breaking stride.
What are three things you can’t live without?
My family, I need time with my 3 kids - it fuels me. Clé de Peau under eye concealer, and coffee. Must have coffee.
What’s your favorite time of day?
I love the quiet evening after the kids are asleep. Some self care, a nice hot bath, and slathering on all my serums and skincare. Winding down from a long day and decompressing.
Favorite beach?
Litchfield SC, my family has been going there for as long as I can remember. It isn’t a Fourth of July if I’m not at the beach in South Carolina. I also love Sea Island, GA - it has turned into our Memorial Day tradition as soon as the kids are out of school, and one of my favorite parts of the summer.
Favorite skincare must have?
Anything by Charlotte Tilbury - I’m a huge skincare junkie.
Dream country to visit?
South Africa
Most adventurous thing you’ve done in your life?
Going on a reality TV show competition - that was wild.
Vintage or New?
Vintage
Style Icon?
Princess Diana - I love her dressed up and dressed down approach, fully committing to a look and super trendy but also timeless in a way
Favorite Pamela Munson handbag?
My new Tulips clutch!
Quick Fire Questions:
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Coffee or Tea? Coffee
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Heels or Sandals? Sandals
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Beach or Pool? Beach
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Frozen Yogurt or Ice Cream? FroYo
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Winter or Summer? Summer
