Screen Shot: Abnoirmal
Website: Abnoirmal.squarespace.com
City Based: Los Angeles, CA
Instagram: @_Abnoirmal
What inspired the brand name?
What inspired me to name my brand “Abnoirmal” is because I was always told that I was different, unique or sometimes weird and I wanted to let anyone that feel that they are different to know that being different is acceptable. The different spelling came about because I wanted the name to stand out, so instead of the normal spelling of “Abnormal” I included the word “Noir” which means “black in French”. The spelling and word sounds much cooler, I included “Noir” because this is a black owned brand. Abnoirmal’s Moto is: “ When it comes to fashion, don’t me normal. Be ABNOIRMAL!!
At what moment did you realize you wanted to start a brand?
This was a childhood dream sonIve always had the thought in mind to be a designer since I was a child. However, I wanted to create couture women’s wear inspired by Chanel but as I got older I fell in love with streetwear and wanted to find a way for it to look and feel luxurious . My brand now , is a luxury streetwear + lifestyle brand.
What helps you get over creative blocks?
I try to keep up with trends and find a way to make my ideas/designs stand out. I try to keep my looks simple yet fun by using some unique color choices and fabrics. Not all of my looks come together so when I hit a block I’d find an alternative look that I’d feel would be more appealing.
What is the biggest mistake you have made?
The biggest mistake I made was starting big. On last year, I launched a basics wear collection and had a lot of inventory left because I didn’t have the proper marketing strategies . Now, In 2021 with me being a new designer not many people know me and I wanted to start with a big BANG with my first NYFW featured showcase. Some of my looks aren't your average lifestyle/daily looks so I thought to start with a big collection full of looks to wear to a special occasion. I now know how to pick an audience and how to cater to them. I will keep some of our looks simple yet versatile because simple sales more and I will create a smaller collection for next year.
What is the biggest success you have had?
My biggest success was having Abnoirmals very first New York Fashion Week showcase in September of 2021. I showcased 20 looks , over 40 pieces individually. The show went very well and at that moment I felt like my childhood dream came true. This was also a proud moment for my son to witness as well. I followed through with this journey to show my son, never give up on your dreams even if it doesn’t happen overnight.
A SOURCE OF INSPIRATION PEOPLE MAY FIND WEIRD?
My main fashion inspiration is from different cultures streetwear. However, I’m also inspired by nightclubs believe it or not. Everyone wants to get fly to go out to a nightclub and you’d discover many different styles for such an occasion.
Favorite color to use?
My favorite color to use is black. Black comes off as a mysterious and powerful color. When I wear black I feel elegant and powerful.
ARE THERE ANY RETAIL SHOPS YOU WOULD LOVE TO SEE YOU BRAND IN?
Yes! I’d love to see my clothing brand sold at Nordstrom’s, Deisgner boutique stores and one day hope to have our own store.
ANOTHER BRAND THAT INSPIRES YOU AND WHY?
Another brand that inspires me is Fear of God/Essentials by Jerry Lorenzo. Jerry designs clothing that is simple, comfortable while offering great quality and great designs. This brand is very essential to everyday lifestyle wear, it’s very versatile. You can dress up or dress down in this brand.
WHERE DO YOU SEE YOURSELF AND THE BRAND IN 1 YEAR AND 5 YEARS?
I see myself learning, growing and becoming more creative with my brand. With proper marketing, new designs I could see my brand in department stores/boutiques and also I can see collaborations happening. Another thing that I could see myself doing is creating an non-profit organization to support young creatives to start a business by sponsoring them with funds to get an LLC and also give back to the homeless by donating care packages.
IN 5 WORDS OR LESS DESCRIBE YOUR BRAND?
Unique, different, edgy, comfortable, tasteful and cultured