Adriana Sahar went from working in her parents’ garage to working the runway

Fashion

Jan 15, 2018 @ 1:00 pm By Mallie Koczon

When I first found Adriana Sahar, it was about two years ago on my Twitter feed. Someone retweeted a photo of her in this bomb, hot pink two piece. As a thick gal in the fashion world, it’s still really difficult to find basically anyone to look up to, even in 2018, so I was stoked.

When Adriana first hopped on the scene, she was the thick girl goddess that the fashion industry desperately needed. Fuller figured women were sick of designers and brands dolling out the same four sizes and calling it a range. Adriana saw the gaping hole in the industry, and decided to start a business for boss ass ladies of ALL sizes.

She’s not only paving the way for young, independent designers, she’s also paving the way for more size-inclusive fashion. From working out of her parents’ garage, to being a Twitter icon, to having her own runway shows, Adriana has truly had a rollercoaster of a career for someone who’s only 25.

Adriana’s not done yet, either. She talks with us about what helps her get in a creative headspace, what makes her feel sexy, and more. Check out our interview with her below!

How did social media help you get your brand recognized?

Social media is a great tool for entrepreneurs. I think that at first, it was a lot of reposting. Lots of big Instagram accounts would repost my work. That’s when my line really picked up. People started following me, and my posts would get on the explore page. It’s all about interaction and engaging with your followers. Bright colors and weirdness are also always eye catching.

You got really Twitter famous when you first started putting your designs on your feed. Is that when you realized like hey, this is a thing?

I mostly would use Twitter to talk shit, especially about boys that I once liked but disgust me now. It’s pretty relatable and it’s nice to relate to others. Twitter is a great place for honesty and also showing cleavage. The reposts on my Louis bras were crazy on Twitter. That’s when I just started posting more designs and talking less shit, but I’m back on my bullshit this year.

When was the moment that you felt your career really started taking off?

When I started getting dm’s from people saying that I inspire them. Also meeting people on the street who recognized me from the Internet, and of course seeing pieces I made recreated or inspired by.

Where do you do your work and why is that location important to your creative process?

I work in my studio/office in downtown LA. Being minutes away from the fashion district is key for me, because the quick fabric runs happen everyday.

Do you need your space decorated in any specific way? If so, how?

Usually I need the whole work area to be clean before I start any new projects. My studio is mostly decorated with boas and feathers, and some fabrics hanging on the wall.

What helps you do your best work?

Music.

What music do you listen to while you’re making looks?

Mostly Drake.

Where do you pull your inspiration from for your pieces?

I inspire myself, and I’m also inspired by other girls like me. Any girl who is marching to the beat of their own drum. I like anything different, so when I’m coming up with ideas individuality is the purpose and the inspiration.

Last year had fashion shows in NYC and LA. How did that feel to see your clothes on a runway?

It was a great experience to see how people share the same excitement and love for my garments as I do. I loved the rush and the thrill of putting together the shows, because you never know what could happen. The love backstage and all over the internet is a certain type of high I could never explain.

What’s it like preparing for a runway show?

Preparing for a show is no joke. I usually don’t answer any phone calls or texts during show prep unless it’s someone who’s a part of it. It’s hectic, but exhilarating.

Is it difficult breaking into the fashion industry?

I would say so, yes. I feel as if there are a lot of designers nowadays, and a lot of them doing the same type of thing. For me I’d say that at first it was hard. I didn’t have followers or people promoting my stuff. No one even knew about me until they started to believe in my vision, because it was different and refreshing. That’s what has drawn people to my brand and me.

What’s your favorite kind of fabric to work with?

Spandex, sweater knits, and sequins. Sometimes sequins are a bit problematic with the machines, but hey, anything for some glitz.

You started your business when you were 22, out of your parents’ garage. Can you tell us about how you got to where you are now?

It’s all about the vision, believing you can do something, and putting in the hours. Once I started really hustling and putting in the work that’s when my vision started to become my reality. I made goals for myself and manifested them into my life. Slowly but surely it happened.

What’s your favorite piece you’ve ever created?

They’re all my favorite, because they’re all special and unique in there own way.

What advice do you have for young women who are out there being creative, but don’t necessarily have the means to start a business?

Always follow your instincts and gut feelings. Don’t let anyone discourage you. There will be a lot of people along the way who will tell you that you can’t do something or that something isn’t right for you. Prove people wrong and be the person you were meant to be. Live your purpose. Always look at the bigger picture.

What parts of your personality helped you become so successful?

I think it was my confidence, but then again it could be a lot of other traits too. 😉