

We recently had the chance to connect with Amanda Ellis and have shared our conversation below.
Amanda, a huge thanks to you for investing the time to share your wisdom with those who are seeking it. We think it’s so important for us to share stories with our neighbors, friends and community because knowledge multiples when we share with each other. Let’s jump in: What makes you lose track of time—and find yourself again?
Once an idea is born, I sew like time doesn’t exist. By the end, I’ve not only made something new—I’ve rediscovered myself. I tell myself I’ll ‘just pin a few seam’s… next thing I know, I’ve invented an outfit and the sun has set.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
Hi, I’m Amanda—a professional treasure hunter in the world of secondhand fashion and a self-taught seamstress who believes that clothes deserve second chances. I started out as a shopper and reseller, curating my online closet with hidden gems. Over time and as my inventory grew, my needle, thread, and a streak of creativity led me to evolve into something new: Dirty Girl. It’s my label of upcycled, one-of-a-kind pieces that rescue forgotten clothes from landfills and give them a bold new life. Every stitch is a story, every piece a sustainable comeback.
Right now I am working on repurposing old t shirts into cool, sporty dresses.
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?
What often breaks bonds is when passion isn’t respected—when someone doesn’t support or believe in the things that light you up, or even feels jealous of the time you spend creating. That lack of support can stitch a wedge between even the strongest relationships. But what restores bonds is the opposite: understanding, cheering each other on, and making space for each person’s passions. Respect and encouragement are like the needle and thread that can repairs the tear.
If you could say one kind thing to your younger self, what would it be?
I’d tell my younger self: always follow your passion—it will never mislead you and be just as mindful about where and in whom you invest your time. When someone shows you who they are, believe them the first time.
So a lot of these questions go deep, but if you are open to it, we’ve got a few more questions that we’d love to get your take on. What would your closest friends say really matters to you?
My closest friends would probably say I care most about honesty, communication, and having each other’s backs—basically, keeping it real while keeping it supportive.
Okay, so before we go, let’s tackle one more area. What is the story you hope people tell about you when you’re gone?
I hope people say I always showed up for those I love, stayed true to my word, and somehow managed to sprinkle a little humor into everything I did along the way.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://dirtygirlworld.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dirtygirl.world
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@amandaellisxo
- Other: Poshmark Closet: https://poshmark.com/closet/amandaellisxo
Image Credits
Drew Gorrie