Adriana Sahar started her fashion career at the age of 13 when her mother bought her a sewing machine. Adriana made her first dress that same year and sold it for $25. Since then, her fashion designer spark grew into a flame and now she has her own successful fashion line at adrianasahar.com. Read on as Ms. Sahar gives us a closer look into her life and work.
1. What were the obstacles you encountered earlier in your career and how did you overcome any moments of doubt you may have had?
A lot of people didn’t believe in my vision or my “dream” and worrying about what other people thought about me and my vision was an obstacle. I always felt like I had to be accepted by others or society. Once I let go of my fears of others not accepting me or my designs, the business started to flourish. I started believing in myself more than anything and anyone. I didn’t need the approval of anyone but myself and I think that’s when I overcame the obstacle.
2. Can you tell us more about the concept of “The Dream Girl” in your fashion line?
We all are “Dream Girls” in our own way. The dream girl is the girl who has it going on, She is confident in herself, dresses to impress and has big dreams that can be conquered. The Dream Girl will not change for anyone because she is sure of herself and everything she has going on.
3. What does fashion mean to you? Do you think it serves a greater purpose in society? If yes, what is that purpose?
What’s the first thing we do after we brush our teeth in the morning? We get dressed, giving ourselves an identity. This is your identity, your aesthetic, how people perceive you before they get to know you. Style and fashion help us tell a story without using words.
4. What inspires you in general? What inspires your different clothing lines?
I’m really inspired by fabrics and textures. Usually the fabric will tell me what I’m going to design. I like to let the fabric talk to me.
5. Mental and emotional health are a big concern; in the tough world of fashion, how do you maintain a balance between work and life?
I really do love to have a balance with work and life but to be honest it’s very hard. Some people don’t know this but the fashion industry is no joke, it is a lot of hard work, dedication, and long nights. I feel like I work 80% of the time and leave 20% for my family and friends. I’m still trying to figure out the balance, but I’m sure one day I’ll get the hang of it.
6. The business side of fashion is also important; how did you grow your business?
I’ve been networking my whole life. After college, I would meet people every night I would go out. Contacts are great to have. Then Instagram was launched and that really helped my business take off, but not before I learned what people wanted and how I should present it. You have to be super strategic with the internet. Word of mouth, tagging, and having your friends wear your designs are pluses.
7. What is your favorite thing about fashion design?
I love draping and coming up with new concepts. Picking out fabric is also one of my favorite things to do.
8. What have been your favorite moments in your career?
The runway shows because they are always the moment of truth when everything comes together – it is such a great rush! Those are the moments when you know you can do anything you put your heart and mind to.
09. What advice can you give to aspiring fashion designers?
Don’t give up, believe in yourself and in your vision to the fullest. Never let anyone tell you who you can be and who you can’t be. This isn’t something that grows over night.
You need to be dedicated to work hard every single day. You need to give it your full potential, no laziness is accepted in the industry. If you do something, go hard for it.
Most of all, be authentic: tell a story with your style that will let people know who you are.
10. How do you define your personal style?
Crazy, sexy, cool, different.
Your work is so inspiring. I can’t wait until I can make a name for myself in the fashion industry.