How would you describe your style? Are there any artists / designers that you particularly look up to?
Brinko Ties goal is to take traditional ideas and make them new. Our first product was a woman’s tie because we wanted to take the traditional men’s power accessory but alter it so that it was made just for a woman. In terms of our men’s neckwear we focus on making our designs approachable by incorporating non traditional fabrics and prints. In both cases we want to appeal to those that desire to be unique and stand out from the crowd while honoring a classic approach to fashion. We love working with unexpected textiles like cotton, tweed, linen, corduroy and wool to name a few. We are not trying to reinvent the wheel but we do strive to give a fresh face to the ultimate power accessory with the idea in mind that ties can be worn in a variety of settings and beyond the men’s arena. We have recently expanded to make bow ties for pets, kids, wine bottles and decanters. The best part about the wine accessories is that they prevent wine drip!
What do you feel makes your work unique and truly your own?
What sets us apart is our focus on women’s ties. The inspiration comes from Bethany’s grandmother, Maria Victoria Brinko. She was a fashion designer and collector in New York in the 50’s and 60’s and would wear men’s ties with sparkling brooches on the knot. We have taken that idea and made a tie just for a woman that goes on like a necklace and comes with a vintage brooch that you are able to pair with your tie if you like. This provides you with a truly one of a kind accessory that speaks to your personal aesthetic.
What sort of things inspire you? Where do you look for inspiration?
We are definitely inspired by vintage fashion where quality was king
What is your creative process like?
Bethany and I (Elizabeth) live on opposite coasts so the creative process is always an interesting and fun one. In terms of communication it can be challenging working in two different time zones. What is always exciting though is seeing the melding of both the east and west coast aesthetic into our designs, which combine for a unique and well rounded approach to our accessories.
Where can we learn more about you?
You can learn more about us on our website at www.BrinkoTies.com or on our social media pages @brinkoties
PS - We desperately want to get a Brinko Tie on a teacup pig. Anyone that helps us achieve that goal gets a prize! :D