10 questions
Story & Photography By Susan O'Connor
When Brandi Adams walks into a room, people take notice. A natural beauty from Brinkley, Adams knows the beauty pageant world inside and out. She was Miss Arkansas Teen USA in 1997, and has taught modeling since her college days.
It was through pageants that she made the acquaintance of Tony Bowls, who had a formalwear boutique in Little Rock at the time and is now a well-known designer. They’ve been friends ever since. Bowls designed the gown for her 2002 wedding to businessman Brandon Adams and she trusted him with the design – sight unseen.
Now Adams is his official spokesperson, traveling to fashion markets in Dallas, New York, Atlanta, Chicago and Las Vegas. She organizes his runway shows, writes the scripts and sells the designs to buyers at market.
Adams is also very involved in philanthropy in Jonesboro, an example set before her by her mother, Janet Watkins of Conway. She is chairperson for next year’s American Cancer Society Daffodil Ball, and co-chair of the 2009 American Heart Association Heart Gala.
She holds a bachelor’s degree in public and community health science from the University of Central Arkansas.
What is your “go-to” clothing for hectic days at market?
In the fashion industry, what you look like, how you are dressed and accessorized, and how you feel can sometimes actually impact a sale or a specific client. When working in this industry, long days and tired feet mean nothing. How well you can present yourself and your product mean everything.
Who is your favorite designer of clothing other than formalwear?
Two designers I love are Michael Kors and Versace. They have great lines, use wonderful fabrics and their clothing is structured and tailored extremely well. I also adore Juicy Couture and Bebe.
You’ve described Tony Bowls as a fabulous designer. What do you think is his greatest strength as a designer?
His strengths are his persistence, blended with his God-given talent as a designer and an artist. His evening gown lines improve every year above and beyond where he himself ever thought they would be. He also listens to what his clients want and that is most important to him.
If you could have any career in the fashion industry, what would it be?
Exactly where I am right now! I love what I do, and I adore the people I work with.
What famous person, living or dead, do you feel is the greatest fashion icon?
Since I was a little girl, I have admired the fashion choices of Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis. She is a fashion icon for class, elegance, and her own personal style, all in one.
What is the biggest fashion mistake most women make?
I think it is trying too hard to follow a trend and becoming frustrated. Dress to feel good about yourself and to feel happy when you look in the mirror. I love trends as much as the next person, however, if a trend is not for you, don’t do it! Be the boss of yourself!
When you travel, what do you bring from home that gives you comfort?
A Juicy Couture lounge outfit, a baseball cap and a pair of Ugg boots!
What three items should every well-dressed woman have in her closet?
A well-kept pair of black pumps, a pair of jeans that make you look and feel great about yourself and a tube of Chanel lip gloss.
When you have free time during your work travel, what is the first thing you want to do? Free time is very rare. We usually work very long days and nights, so when there is a free moment, I will usually go sit by myself for a few minutes, get a snack and always call my husband!
What is your favorite travel destination for leisure?
Rosemary Beach in Florida. I love to go there and relax. It is a very laid back, small beach town where there are few cars and lots of bicycles. It is so quaint and peaceful and one of the best places for my family to spend time with each other.
