Amanda Wakeley OBE was born in 1962, and educated at Cheltenham Ladies' College. She is a self-taught designer who worked for Go Silk in New York before launching under her own signature label in 1990.[1] Over the last two decades she has developed an international reputation for designing stylish, supremely luxurious, womenswear and accessories.[2] Primarily known for her subtly coloured and multi-textured eveningwear, and pared-down classic daywear in the British, USA and Japanese market[1] Wakeley has also recently introduced a successful shoe and new fine jewellery collection.[1]
In April 2009, she completed the buy-back of her business, saving over 50 jobs across the UK. Since then, she has relaunched her brand, opened a new Flagship Store and achieved critical acclaim when she returned to London Fashion Week last September.[3]
Over the years, Amanda Wakeley has dressed stars such as; Scarlett Johansson, Demi Moore, Kate Beckinsdale, Dita Von Teese, Charlize Theron, Jada Pinkett Smith, Mischa Barton, Sarah Michelle Gellar, Helen Mirren and Kate Winslet. She has also dressed many members of Royal families, including the late Princess of Wales and Queen Rania of Jordan.[2]
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The Amanda Wakeley collection is retailed from her shop on the Fulham Road, at Harvey Nichols throughout the UK and at Harrods in London. The brand is also represented throughout Europe, Americas and the Middle East.[2]
Since 1996 Amanda Wakeley has co-chaired the committee for the Fashion Targets Breast Cancer Appeal and has helped to raise over £10m to date, and continues to raise awareness and funds for numerous charities.[2] She is the winner of several awards including three British Fashion Awards for Glamour.[2]
In January 2010, the Queen appointed Amanda Wakeley an Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) in the New Year 2010 Honours List.[3]
The award, for services to the British Fashion Industry, also recognises the considerable contribution that Amanda Wakeley makes as founding co-Chair of Fashion Targets Breast Cancer.[3]
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