Meet Abbey Parodi of Parodi Designs. She has been designing for years and has developed a brand of versatile pieces that can go from day to evening.
Abbey Parodi’s design processes from the 2016 collection, “REINE,” including mood board and fabric swatches
How did you get into fashion? Tell me a little about your background.
I have been sewing and designing since I was in second grade. It started with doll clothing and pillows, small sewing projects, and it grew into designing full collections. I graduated from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln in December of 2016 with a degree in Fashion Textile and Apparel Design. I currently work in Orlando, FL, with the Walt Disney Co. on the Creative Costume team.
Describe your brand and the point of view you wish to convey. What category does your brand fall under?
I want the women that wear Parodi Designs’ clothing to feel strong, powerful, and confident. My clothes are versatile: some pieces can be mixed to create streetwear and other combinations can be worn as eveningwear.
Abbey Parodi works with fabrics to make sure all of the different colors and materials blend seamlessly together
What are your personal goals or goals for your brand?
I would love to keep creating fashion collections in the future. I would also love to see Parodi Designs grow in the coming years.
Describe your favorite project or projects that you have worked on.
I think what I am currently working on for Omaha Fashion Week this August is my favorite collection so far. It’s very different from my work in the past, which is exciting. I’m ready to show a different side of Parodi Designs.
An up-close look at how technical skill and correct construction play a huge part in each garment.
Where do you look for inspiration?
I draw a lot of inspiration from sound more so than sight. Music, song lyrics, and stories really help me dive into a creative mindset. Anything lacking a visual opens up the opportunity for me to create something to fill that void.
Describe some of the specific inspiration for your new collection.
My new collection is inspired by the idea that people you meet in this world leave part of themselves with you, whether you are aware of it or not. That idea pushed me to create a collection filled with interchangeable pieces, dramatic drapes, and fabrics that are altered when worn with other pieces. For example, a pink dress is no longer pink when paired with a translucent blue dress on top - expressing this idea of layers and people coming into your life and leaving part of themselves with you.
What kind of materials do you use and why?
All my fabrics are translucent to help show the different layers in each garment. Organza is the main fabric of this streetwear collection.
A finished, three-piece look on the runway
What kind of special processes do you use and what effect does it have on your work?
I try to experiment with new techniques every time I start a new collection, that way no two collections ever feel the same.
Is this a new approach for you or is it consistent throughout your work?
I have always tried to use new and experimental techniques to keep my designs exciting and innovative.
What else would you like to say to the people reading your profile?
Thanks to everyone who continues to help me through this journey. I would be nowhere without my mom and sister, as well as my many friends and colleagues who continue to encourage me to put my work out there. To anyone who has ever wanted to pursue a life in the creative field, I say go for it. I am so glad I get to work every day doing something I love in the amazing world of design.
To learn more about Abbey check out her website and follow along on Instagram and Facebook to see more of her design process!