Priscilla Torres: New York Based Fashion Designer Who Showcases Trials Of The Past Collection
Fashion Designer Priscilla Torres studied at FIT in New York City. Her designs reflect her artisanal heritage, nature, multicultural identity, and historical references. Her current collection, “Trials Of The Past,” is about her home country in the Caribbean and its history.
Trials Of The Past Collection, photographed by Erica Génécé
What inspired you to get into vegan and sustainable clothing?
I strongly considered leaving the fashion industry after watching the ‘True Cost’ documentary. It was a wake-up call that influenced my decision to declare an Ethic and Sustainability minor in the middle of my junior year. If I were to stay in the industry, I wanted to feel good about the work I was doing.
Do you enjoy second-hand shopping, thrifting, or upcycled clothing?
I enjoy it all, especially shopping second-hand. It’s a great way for me as a designer to learn about different types of construction details and fabric choices. I often find a lot of unique pieces with strong details and superb construction details. Second-hand shopping is also ideal for upcycling projects. I have a bunch of old jeans I cleaned out from my closet that I am planning to deconstruct and upcycled into corsets and small accessories this summer.
What influences your designs?
My designs are influenced by artisanal heritage, circular design innovations, and the natural evolution of life. They are guided by the Bauhaus and Kaizen theories of designing purposely and harmoniously.
Trials Of The Past Collection, photographed by Erica Génécé
What do you like to do in your free time?
In my free time, I love to spend time with family and friends, especially outdoor in natural surroundings. I also enjoy visiting art galleries and museums.
If you weren't in the fashion industry, what other career path would you choose?
If I weren’t in the fashion industry I would probably be involved in some form of social work or be an art teacher for middle school students.
Trials Of The Past Collection, photographed by Erica Génécé
Did you always know that fashion was what you wanted to pursue?
Ever since I was 12 I knew I wanted to be part of the fashion industry. I initially aspired to become a fashion stylist, so I studied fashion merchandising, marketing, and management prior to getting my fashion design degree. During that time, I interned at W Magazine assisting Fashion Director Alex White. Since then, I’ve had several roles within the industry that exposed me to different departments and experiences, but through it all fashion has always been my guiding star.
How did you learn how to sew?
I learned how to first sew when I live back home in Puerto Plata, Dr. One of my aunts taught me how to hand sew, do different stitch techniques and basic needle points when I was about 7 or 8 years old. Later I was introduced to my first machine through an older cousin who taught me how to sew outfits for our Barbies using her toy sewing machine.
Trials Of The Past Collection, photographed by Erica Génécé
Where do you see yourself five years from now?
I see myself doing what I love: collaborating with like-minded innovators on working towards a circular future, working on exciting projects, and learning as my brand evolves.
Where do you find inspiration?
I mostly find inspiration in nature and in my cultural identity.
Priscilla Torres, photographed by Erica Génécé
What are your socials?
My personal IG: @stylishflaneuse
My brand’s IG: @evolvingconcept
Website: evolvingconceptstudio.com
Where to Buy: https://fave.co/3CLnTSx
CREW CREDITS:|
Models- Albelis Reyes and Marissa Hill
Editorial Assistant- Monica Puspasari
Photographer/ Director/ Producer- Erica Génécé
Production Assistant- Ales Costantino
Videographer/ Editor- Jessica Storm
Hair Artist- Karl J. Payton
Makeup Artist- LB Charles
Set Designer- Monica Guerrero
Set Designer- Christal Jonas Clarke
Set/ Photo Assistant- Ashley Dorce
Set Assistant- Luiggy Gomez
Interview: Laurel Scimeca, Contributor, PhotoBook Magazine
Tearsheets: Isabella Grieco, Graphic Design, PhotoBook Magazine
