Abi Ferrin on Seattle Ave (Designer)

Where did your motto Fashion with Freedom and Purpose come from?

My sister Kelly is a full-time humanitarian, so we were searching for a way to combine our passions. When we started to realize what could happen with the organizations we identified that had already started the training aspects of a program for women, but had no strong streams of revenue created for the, The Freedom Project was born and it all came together. Not only are the designs themselves freeing, but the core of the brand has a purpose far beyond greed and profit which truly makes it stand alone.

How did you become a fashion designer?

I became a fashion designer over 6 years of working hard day and night. I call it persistence beyond what seems reasonable, because there have been so many obstacles to overcome, but I always knew that there was no other path for me. It started at an industry party in Hollywood when Dayna Devon, host of Extra requested clothing for a red carpet event and to host her show. She wore my clothes and was featured in several national publications. At that point, many thought I was an overnight success but really that was just the starting point.

Who or what influences you the most?

The women in my life influence me the most. I am surrounded by a very dynamic circle of women who inspire me, and make me a better designer and business woman. From my trunk show appearances around the country, to the clients I work with directly I constantly draw ideas and inspiration from each interaction. It helps me listen to what women are looking for, what is important to them in terms of style, and to constantly evolve. Tanya Friberg who owns The Finerie is among the core group of women in my life who have helped me really develop my brand. She is a very talented buyer, and sees ahead of most other store owners I work with. I wait for my trips to Seattle to buy anything I need to supplement my wardrobe, from shoes and purses, to jeans and accessories, she has the best and most unique selection or product I've found anywhere (not to mention she is the exclusive store to carry the Abi Ferrin collection in Seattle).

Are there specific designers or styles that you regularly draw inspiration from?

I love Erte and while we are completely different in terms of style, I am inspired by the attitude and approach that Marc Jacobs has to his collection and his success. He hasn't let all that he has change him, and I really respect that.

What has been the highlight of your designing career so far?

Showing in New York City for the first time last September during fashion week was the most exciting experience. I had people fly from places around the world to support me, and the energy, excitement and relevance of that day has made it hard to beat.

What plans do you have for the future of the line?

We plan to continue to expand the Freedom Project, and will be showing again in New York City in September. I will be unveiling my Spring 2010 Rainforest inspired collection, "Genesis" because it is only the beginning of what we hope to accomplish with momentum and support.

You were discovered in Los Angeles, yet are based in Texas, which most people wouldn't consider a part of fashion circles. Why base your operations there?

People would be surprised to find out what a fashion forward city Dallas is. The women in Texas are actually among the most vied for group of clients in fashion circles. Neiman Marcus was founded and is based in Dallas. Designers such as Carolina Herrerra, Oscar de la Renta, Roberto Cavali and Giorgio Armani have all made trips and personal appearances to Dallas to show and woo this group of women recently. It is also centrally located so within 3 hours you can be in L.A., New York or Costa Rica, making it easy for me to expand my business! It is an easy, affordable city to live in, and I have a tremendous amount of support from the community here. Atlas Shrugged by Ayn Rand was an extremely impactful book which inspired me to go from being employed to being an entrepreneur, and Dallas is very much a city that is innately based on supporting the entrepreneurial spirit.

How long have your designs been carried by The Finerie in Seattle?

Tanya bought my line before she opened the store, and before my career took off. The Finerie was my first steady account. I was living in my Hollywood apartment and sewing every piece at that point, so we have been working together since literally the beginning. It is really neat to develop a relationship like that where someone believes in you and sees what you have to offer before anyone else. In the process, we have become very good friends, as we often encounter similar struggles in the process of owning and growing our own business which is tough during any economic time, let alone the current climate. I really encourage Seattle to shop local and support The Finerie, because she is a fashion innovator.

What clothing item would you rescue if your closet set fire?

I call them my vintage Abi Ferrin pieces. I have a skirt that I sewed when I was 5 and a dress I sewed when I was 9 to remind me of that passion. Those are really the only items that are irreplaceable. Also, on my way out the door I'd grab my new fashion slouch Lucchesse cowboy boots in true Texas form!

Everyone has a major fashion faux pas moment. What was yours?

Ha! Mine was basically from junior high until mid-way through college. I grew up in Wyoming on a ranch so was not exposed to fashion at all until I got to college. As a result there are some pictures out there I hope will never be uncovered.