Amie Bingham (left), Amanda Barker (centre) and Kate Brown (right). Image by Jemima Helmore Photography.
Amie Bingham, Amanda Barker and Kate Brown are the founders of modern scarf label Dark Hampton which they launched in late 2019. The three friends created the label to share their love of scarves but also, as they love giving gifts, they wanted to create a little bit of everyday luxury that make for beautiful gifts. Dark Hampton is designed in New Zealand and this year the brand launched their stylish wool blanket scarves which are 50% Australian wool, 50% Australian lambswool (you can go enter to win one here).
We caught up with Amie, Amanda and Kate to find out more about their brand, what inspires them and what you would never catch them wearing!
Tell us about your latest collection?
Our latest collection is The Lamont, The Michelides and The Giesen. Part of our cashmere modal scarf range. They are all made of 10% cashmere, 90% modal. The Lamont, is a stunning soft green with a hint of lilac and The Michelides is striking with pink blue and red. The Giesen has been so popular, it is just a ray of sunshine and colour.
All of our scarves are named after friends, family and women who inspire us. Our designs reflect their personalities and their style. We love creating something that we know our customers will love, but is tailored to someone special to us or instrumental in our lives.
What made you become a designer?
We were always looking for a scarf that didn’t exist, beautiful, bright and soft but we could never find exactly what we were looking for. We also love gifting, Amie in particular is always looking for beautiful gifts for people and a scarf is a bit like a big hug when you gift it to a friend.
What inspires you?
We are inspired by the world around us.
Amie: I often takes screenshots of posters or wall art in striking colours for gorgeous colour combinations.
Kate: I’m inspired by people around us that have been successful in following their dreams, in either the business, art or fashion world. Love listening to podcasts from inspirational and successful people.
Scarves from Dark Hampton’s current collection.
Describe your personal style and how it influences your designs?
Our style is classic and timeless. Then the scarves add a pop of colour and personality to our outfits.
What is your all-time favourite purchase?
Amie: My Caitlin Crisp coat that I love, and coveted for quite a while before I purchased.
Amanda: The trampoline that keeps my children outside and entertained.
What wardrobe item should everyone invest in?
Kate: We’d have to say beautiful scarf or two, it elevates a classic wardrobe and can be worn so many ways. And a good blazer is always essential.
Do you have a style rule you always obey?
Our rule is that there are no rules, but the smile is the best thing you can wear.
Scarves from Dark Hampton’s current collection.
What has been the highlight of your career so far?
Amanda: Seeing someone wearing our scarf on the street. It always makes you smile!
Amie: Looking at our lovely range of retailers we have established, we have some stunning independent boutiques and department stores and we’re so proud to have all of them stocking our brand.
What can’t you live without?
We love jeans and a blazer for our wardrobe essentials. Family, friends and a really good laugh. We have a lot of laughs around the office and it is so good for the soul.
Finish this sentence – You would never catch me wearing…
Crocs. It was unanimous.
Images supplied.