By Sydney Sadick
It all started with one perfect top. What began as a personal quest for that effortlessly flattering, throw-it-on-and-go piece turned into something much bigger: a fashion brand worn by women everywhere—from city streets to Hamptons soirées.
Ramy Brook Sharp didn’t just launch a clothing line; she built a lifestyle. As an adored Hamptons figure and a powerhouse in the fashion world, Ramy reflects with Spotlight on her years of success.
Ramy, this is the 15th anniversary of your brand! How does it feel reaching such a milestone?
Wow, has it been 15 years already? Time flies when you love what you do. When I started, I didn’t have a grand plan. I simply couldn’t find the right top to wear with my jeans. Every time I opened my closet, I felt like I had nothing to wear, so creating my own felt like the best solution. I loved shopping for beautiful silk tops but wanted something more affordable so I could own them in more than just one color. Tops came first, then designing dresses felt like a natural next step. Soon after came bottoms, sweaters, outerwear— and now my newest obsession: jewelry. I want our girl to be able to buy something she can wear for every part of her life.
Why did you decide to launch your own line in 2010?
Fifteen years ago, my kids ranged from 5 to 10 years old. They were on a bus at 7:30 a.m. and home by 4:30 p.m., so I had time on my hands. I leaned on friends who were entrepreneurs or in the garment industry, soaking up all the advice I could get. Jennifer Miller, who owns one of my favorite jewelry stores, was incredibly helpful and generous with her time. Stefani Greenfield, then the co-owner of Scoop, patiently walked me through the ins and outs of the retail world. Looking back, I was quite naïve, but thanks to the support of these amazing women, I found the confidence to launch my own line. I knew I was onto something special when even my super fashionable friends loved the clothes. After 10 months of trunk shows, Bergdorf Goodman picked up the line—and the rest is history.
How has the brand evolved over time?
I started the brand with five sexy tops and one very mini dress; now, we’re giving our customers the full Ramy Brook look. Our ready-to-wear has evolved with novelty fabrics, bold prints, eye-catching embellishments, and fresh designs. At its core, the brand is about celebrating life—and we’ll keep creating pieces that make women feel amazing and leave them smiling.
What is at the root of your long-standing success?
Staying true to our brand DNA. We always design with our core customer in mind. Trends come and go, but staying true to our vision builds lasting loyalty.
Who is the Ramy Brook customer?
I like to say Ramy Brook is for women from 18 to 80. Every collection we design is inspired by celebrations— vacations, weddings, summer parties, date nights, and more. Our woman is always on the go, living her life to the fullest. She feels happy, sexy, and strong, embraces color, travels the world—and above all, she wants to have fun while looking and feeling fabulous!
You have locations in both the Hamptons and New York City. What kind of experience do customers get when shopping at your store?
Shopping with us feels like you’re stepping into your best friend’s fabulous closet! Our expert stylists at both our Southampton and Madison Avenue stores offer personalized one-on-one styling, making each visit extra special. Our goal is to provide the best shopping experience from the moment you walk in the door. We always have music playing and the wine flowing, creating the perfect vibe for a good time.
What are the most popular styles in your collection right now?
Our denim is flying off the shelves— especially the Helena High-Rise Flare Jeans! Designed by a woman, for women, our jeans are ultra-flattering and hug in all the right places. Our Harriet Silk Halter Tank Top is also a classic; you can wear it six different ways, and it never fails to turn heads.
What have been some of your proudest career moments?
Getting into Bergdorf Goodman was a pivotal moment for me, and opening our first flagship store on Madison Avenue in 2019 was another milestone I’ll never forget. I must admit, seeing Taylor Swift wear Ramy Brook a few months ago was definitely a career highlight!
What are some new categories for you?
Jewelry and accessories have always been a love of mine. In fact, I started Ramy Brook as a way to showcase my [personal] jewelry collection. I’m thrilled that we’ve now expanded into designing jewelry to perfectly complement our clothing. From layered necklaces to charm bracelets to statement rings, our jewelry is fabulous.
Who are your style muses?
My mother instilled a love for fashion in me from an early age. I also love Bianca Jagger.
When you’re not running your empire, how do you unwind in the Hamptons?
The Hamptons is a special place to me. It’s where I met my husband and where my family comes every summer. Spending quality time together Out East is my favorite way to unwind. My husband loves cooking. We’ve got classic rock playing throughout the house, and our fridge is always stocked with rosé and white wine. Ending the day with friends coming over for dinner makes the weekend complete.
What town is your favorite?
Southampton for shopping, Sag Harbor for its charming vibe and great restaurants, and East Hampton for the beaches.
How does the Hamptons serve as inspiration for your designs?
When designing for summer, I think about what I’d want to wear to all the fun summer events Out East—a printed maxi for dinner, an all-white outfit with turquoise jewelry for parties, and a vibrant swimsuit with a fun cover-up for daytime. For a night out, it’s always a sexy top and denim—especially white denim, because it’s definitely the season for it!
What would people be surprised to learn about you?
Some of my favorite stores in the Hamptons are HomeGoods and T.J. Maxx.
What’s next for you?
Our brand-new summer collection just launched, inspired by the tropical prints and breezy fabrics of Tulum; it’s quickly become one of my all-time favorites. We’re now focused on expanding our accessories collection and have a fun collaboration lined up for fall. Stay tuned, and visit us this summer at 44 Main Street in Southampton!
