We’re looking forward to introducing you to Amir Usher. Check out our conversation below.
Amir, it’s always a pleasure to learn from you and your journey. Let’s start with a bit of a warmup: When was the last time you felt true joy?
Just recently, I had a chance to pop in at my sun’s school and read to him and his class. I was describe it as joy in the purest form. Seeing his face light up when we hit the door with one of his favorite books is one of those moments you don’t forget. Those are the times that when they come to mind, takes you right back like you never left.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I’m Amir Usher, the creative director & founder of Amir James, an apparel brand built around the idea that inspiration is motion. What started over a decade ago at Tuskegee University has evolved into a brand rooted in Atlanta,. At our core, inspiration is our vessel, and apparel is how we share our gift(s) with the world. The clothes are our way of starting conversations, sparking belief, and reminding people that they already have everything they need within them. Each piece is a reflection of the journey: the late nights, the setbacks, the faith, and the quiet moments when no one’s watching.
I’m currently working on a two collaborations with different brands to introduce small 3 piece collections for the Fall/Winter. I’m in the thick of it, so being able to unplug for a second and speak with you guys is a breath of fresh air.
Thanks for sharing that. Would love to go back in time and hear about how your past might have impacted who you are today. What breaks the bonds between people—and what restores them?
I would have to say disrespect or lack of appreciation. Whenever appreciation turns into expectation, the relationship will always dwindle. It’s just a matter of whether that bond separation is slow or immediate.
Everyone wants to be appreciated and respected. So I truly believe that if either or both of those bonds have been broken, acknowledgement, accountability and honesty would have the be at the forefront of any motion going forward. And most importantly, changed behavior. Acknowledgement and accountability means nothing is the behavior is habitual.
Was there ever a time you almost gave up?
Absolutely, when you take something from an idea in your mind to something tangible, there will always be times when we let too much doubt seep in. Those are those quiet moments in entrepreneurship that you hardly hear about. For me, it was just understanding that it wasn’t exclusive to me and that its apart of my journey. It’s proof that you’re stretching beyond your comfort zone. One thing about, whenever it all feels like its too much or may not be progressing as fast as I would like it to, or life is just living: I always receive a sign from the universe to keep going.
Sure, so let’s go deeper into your values and how you think. Whose ideas do you rely on most that aren’t your own?
I’ve got a crew (4) of family and friends all from totally different walks of life, specialities, mindsets, some non-creative and logical, others free flowing and creative that I use as a sounding board about everything from color palettes to social media presence. Sometimes its for things non business related, life perspectives. And this isn’t a group chat, its speaking with them or being in their elements naturally brings up certain conversations where I can appreciate their perspectives on ideas without motive. Sometimes you can get caught up in your own thoughts and ideas and it’s good to be able to appreciate how others view the world. I’m not sure if they know how much I appreciate them but if and when they read this, they’ll know who they are. Thank You.
Before we go, we’d love to hear your thoughts on some longer-run, legacy type questions. If you knew you had 10 years left, what would you stop doing immediately?
Over-thinking.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.AmirJames.com
- Instagram: @amirjames
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/amir.james.14
Image Credits
@shotbysed
