Paola is a first generation Mexican-American, born and raised in Los Angeles. She is currently in her second year at Central Saint Martins studying BA Fashion Design: Communication.
Why did you choose to study your course and why Central Saint Martins (CSM)?
At the time, I had wanted to explore so many different avenues of fashion. I was designing somewhat genderless clothing and really enjoyed taking photos and illustrating. It wasn't until a tutor in foundation told me there was a pathway that let me explore all my interests, and it was Fashion Design with Communication! I did some digging and found out more about the pathway leader and what projects were assigned, and immediately I knew it was exactly what I wanted to do with my studies for the next four years.
What’s the most interesting project you’ve worked on so far? What made it so interesting to work on?
Ooof! So many good projects this year. 'Identity Project' was definitely a unique experience. I think what made it interesting, and by interesting I mean challenging, was that we had to step away from our sketchbooks/sewing machines and think about how your identity as a designer can become an actual experience for everyone to understand. Sometimes I feel I live a lot in my head and forget that just because I can make an image or garment doesn't mean everyone will understand. It's so important to have the ability to make a world around your clothing. I ended up making a sculpture/installation, compiling old boxes and metal bits into layers as well as doing a photoshoot. It was rewarding to explore the different options of my outcome and executing in a way for my peers and teachers to enjoy.
Have you completed any work placements / internships whilst being on the course?
I have worked for CSM alum Fidan Novruzova doing PR, which required me to be responsible for managing/tracking her clothing samples and for handling email correspondence with magazines and stylists. I was also a studio intern at Supriya Lele and Melitta Baumeister where I pretty much learned how they ran their independent fashion labels. I did a little bit of everything to help the team out: making technical flats, sewing buttons, speaking with production companies, choosing fabrics, and so much more! I learned about how they handled their production process to understanding their collection making process.
What important piece of advice would you give to students thinking of studying this course?
I think if you are considering studying at CSM, you have to be very self-motivated, curious and willing to learn as much as possible. Also, I would say have something that really motivates you to be obsessive. You will only get what you put into your education at CSM.
What has been the highlight of your CSM experience so far?
The people! I've met some incredible people and I've learned so much from my peers. I think they might have taught me the most since starting. We've been able to support and motivate each other during some really stressful times, which feels truly special. We're all very different so its really amazing to see everyone grow with their own vision and constantly challenge the boundaries.
What are your career aspirations? Where would you like to be in five years time?
I really worry about the future of fashion and its harm to our planet. I made a commitment to myself that with all my projects going forward, I will be resourceful in some way and put our planet's safety first. I would like to work for a company that supports sustainable fashion making and I would love to continue to learn and invent ways to create sustainable materials/garments.
What is the most important thing you've learnt on the course so far?
It's okay to fail while trying and experimenting (maybe this is a note to myself!). It's okay to try over and over and over. There's somehow always a weird point in a project where something just clicks and you discover something that is so worth it, even if it's a bit late in the project, it's something special you can keep in your pocket for future things, so having patience with yourself is good.
View Paola's website to see some of her workFollow Renée on Instagram