Dana-Maxx Pomerantz made her silver screen debut on Joe Zee’s show “All on the Line”. The label “Dana-Maxx”, which began in 2007, is known for its unique architectural silhouettes that are chic, strong, edgy, yet always feminine.
The designer is a graduate of the Fashion Institute of Technology. Her technical knowledge of a garment’s proper fit and design, was obtained by working at two of the industry’s most influential designers, Betsey Johnson and Marc Jacobs. Her collection attracted our attention not only because of its obvious wearability but also because she had 50 pieces this season - definitely a huge feat for any up-and-comer.
How did you break into this industry?
Dana-Maxx: I always knew that I wanted to be a fashion designer and have my own company. I started designing when I was a young girl and then went to The Fashion Institute of Technology in New York and majored in fashion design. Soon thereafter, I worked at Betsey Johnson and Marc Jacobs, before starting my own company in 2007.
Where do you get the inspiration for your line?
My mind is very visual and imaginative. I find the majority of my inspiration in things such as architecture, shapes, and color. I also love how opposites attract. Whether it’s mixing bright pops of colors with neutrals or combining a feminine silhouette with a more masculine shape.
What made you decide to design Clothing, rather than say… shoes or hats?
Clothing always spoke to me because it plays such a major role in self-expression. When you put on a dress, and it has the ability to make you feel beautiful and alive, that’s amazing. I love the way clothing influences our mood and state of mind.
How did you start finding your identity as a designer?
My identity as a designer was relatively easy to identify since I have always been inspired by the idea of shape, from the beauty of a woman’s curves to the architecture of a building. However, combining my design aesthetic with the business side took some time to properly evolve. I learned how to successfully marry the two through trial and error, and with Joe Zee’s (Creative Director at ELLE) help.
Where do you see yourself in 10 years? Where do you see your line in 10 years?
In 10 years I see myself more settled down, personally and professionally, and I see the line as a go-to brand and household name.
You have 50 pieces in your collection, that’s a huge amount for a collection – why have you decided to do this rather than limit the size of your collection?
For the past few seasons I showed smaller collections due to the poor economic times. However in the past season or so, we were getting requests from buyers to produce a larger collection. Buyers love to have the ability to pick and choose, so the more options they have, the more likely they will find something within the collection that is a good ft for their store.
How did you feel about appearing on “All On The Line”?
I felt very vulnerable, but I knew what I was getting involved in when I signed on to do the show. I am very grateful for the opportunity to have been on the show. I learned a lot about my business and who I am as a designer from being on the show.
Other than designing clothing, what are your other passions?
I love downloading music- it’s sort of an addiction of mine- and I love reading self-help books.
How would you describe your current state of mind?
Hopeful and strong
Let us in on a New York Secret of yours.My favorite spot in New York is the Hell’s Kitchen Flea Market on West 25th street. I find so many great items here!
Dana Maxx Shopping Picks (Click to buy)
