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Taking in the rush of models, makeup artists, dressers and PR people backstage before the unveiling of Abaete’s Spring 2007 collection, one would think that the head designer must be frantically running around, trying to make sure every last detail is perfect before the show. But this morning, the calmest person in the room is the red-head in the demure sage-colored dress, graciously conversing with journalists, before being pulled away by her staff. Here are some snippets from my pre-show conversation with Laura:
Bob: What type of woman do you see wearing looks from your Spring ’07 collection?
Laura: I see a woman who is confident, who feels good in her own skin.
Bob: Your collection for Payless is classy, affordable and highly popular. Was this your first foray into mass market fashion?
Laura: Yes, I wanted to add a sense of style to footwear, and to bring my designs to women who are not able to afford my regular collection. I was a part of every step of the design process for these shoes- they are very well-made.
Bob: What designers inspire you?
Laura: The designer that I admire most is Karl Lagerfeld and his work for Chanel.
Bob: What are your three must-have items for Fashion Week?
Laura: A big bag to hold everything, comfortable shoes and a stiff drink! (Laughing)
Laura Poretzky, the designer and founder of Abaete, trained at the notoriously demanding Rhode Island School of Design, switching from photography to fashion design before taking up a position at Ralph Lauren. Her own label is a family name and her collection is inspired by her family’s Brazilian, French and American influences. Attributing her inspiration for spring to photos of her mother, Ana, taken in 1970’s Paris, Poretzky seems grounded as well as talented- a combination that should ensure her label’s success in New York fashion.
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