Meet Samantha Buck | Clothing Designer and Maker

We had the good fortune of connecting with Samantha Buck and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Samantha, what do you attribute your success to?
Expressing one’s individual uniqueness is something I find to be very important. It is crucial for people to be able to represent the genuine and wonderful person they are! What better way to show off your personality than with FASHION? Everything designed by Roaming Tiger is done through the practice of sustainable upcycling that is one of kind. From custom orders to seasonal apparel, all designs are created with renewed sense of purpose using second-hand materials.

Fast fashion sells duplicates to the masses using poor materials, causing a detrimental impact on our environment. Unsold stock and unproper disposal of garments by the consumer end up in our landfills. Despite fast fashion being the affordable option, the people working for these companies are underpaid, overworked, and have poor working conditions (including child labor).

Why not wear clothing that is a uniquely repurposed AND help reduce the pollution and waste crisis? (AKA save the world!)

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
Making unique upcycled clothing and accessories for people who want to connect with, fall in love with and never want to part with, is one of the best feelings in the world. When producing designs, I tend to make things silly and quirky. Cartoons, humor, fun designs that bring people enjoyment when they see it. I love to create nostalgia in my designs. I gain the most enjoyment when I see that special someone make a connection with something I have created.

Getting where I am today has been a rollercoaster, It took years of exploring culture and personal growth to find my creative identity. I have learned that to be successful, you must not be afraid to ask for help or advice. Doing things alone can be extremely overwhelming. Also be available for YOU – don’t overwork yourself. You get the most inspiration from your experiences in life!

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
San Diego is such an amazing city! When visiting, my go-to’s are endless, but my favorite spots are below. Also, don’t forget to check to see if there are any events while visiting San Diego to add to your itinerary!

*Food: Sushi – Sushi Ota, American – Luce Bar & Kitchen, Japanese/Yakitori – Taisho, Brunch – Breakfast Bitch, Mexican – Santanas, Asian/Noodles – OB Noodle House, Ramen – Menya Ultra, Cajon/Creole – Crab Hut, Dessert – Julian Pie

*Drink: Starlite, The Grass Skirt, Shoreclub, Firehouse, Coin-Op Game Room, Silver Fox, Better Buzz, Altitude Sky Lounge

*Visit: Botanical Building, Belmont Park, La Jolla Cove, Old Town, Fleet Science Center, Kate Sessions Park, Sunset Cliffs, Black’s Beach, The Wild Animal Park

*Adventure: Torrey Pines Glider Port, rent jet skis, swim/kayak with the sea lions at La Jolla Cove, hike at Torrey Pines State Reserve

*Nightlife: Spin Nightclub, Trailer Park After-Dark, Vin De Syrah, Aero Club Bar, Bang Bang, Music Box, The Casbah

*Events: Love Machine Festival, catch a Padre’s game or music event at Petco Park, San Diego Vintage Market, Makers Arcade, Ocean Beach Farmers Market, San Diego Restaurant Week, Del Mar Racing, San Diego Comic-Con International, Miramar Air Show, KAABOO San Diego. flower fields (seasonal)

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I wouldn’t be where I am today without the love and support of my family and friends. They have been there for me through it all, with no hesitation or doubt.

I want to give a big shout out to my Mom. She has been there to shower me with confidence, not only mentally, but she would drop everything to help me when in need, Her creativity and artistic talent has always inspired me. She has taught me patience and to be myself in my art.

Lastly, a special shout out to Bryan McClanahan. Without your help, I would still be at my 9-5, settling for a job that provided financial comfort. Taking the leap is terrifying and he made it easy. He is always there to encourage me to keep going and do what I love!

Thank you all – I love you to the moon and back forever!

Website: www.etsy.com/shop/roamingtiger/

Instagram: @roamingtiger_

Facebook: @roamingtigerdesigns

Other: email: samantha@roamingtiger.co

Image Credits
Photo Credit(s): Madeline Barr Photo Credit/Model(s): Antemio Perez, Lucas Rodriguez, Anabel Englund, Natalie Alkire, Cookie Leon Model(s): Scotty Buck, Laine Knudsen, Cygne Cooper, Nicholas Madl Photo Credit/Model/Photo Editing: Samantha Buck