Nicole Fisher is NIC*FISH
December 19th, 2009 | By RS
Philadelphia has given us some the most interesting and talented individuals. Author Bebe Moore Campbell, Singer/Poet/Actress Jill Scott, and the legendary Maze & Frankie Beverly (my Mothers will appreciate that shout out). And now we can include designer Nicole Fisher to the list. Born in Philadelphia at a young age Nicole was surrounded by the fashion industry. Due to mentors and family members’ involvement Nicole was taught all aspects of the industry. After pursuing an education at Howard University she enrolled at the Fashion Institute of Technology in New York City. It was here she hone her gift for designing original, inventive pieces that would soon give birth to the incomparable NIC*FISH clothing line.
How did you decide the name for your clothing line?
It was named by my god sister, Malene Younglao. She would always call me Nic Fish instead of Nicole. One day we were chatting and she said, “You know, you should name your line NIC*FISH?” I liked her idea, and that’s how the name was born. My other god sister, Shannon Washington further developed the imaging of the brand by designing the NIC*FISH logo.
Briefly, describe a typical work day for Nicole Fisher.
During the week, I wake about 7:30am, and shower, dress & have breakfast. Then I check emails, and then I’m off doing bazillion things at once…. A day could include fabric & trim shopping, pattern-making, draping & cutting new styles, and creating samples for in-store stock, and client orders. I can’t say that my day ends at a specific time, because many nights, I’m working into the wee hours of the morning, which is cool, because I love what I do.
Who are some of your favorite designers?
I’ve never been a big follower of designers, and I rarely follow the latest trends… I consider myself more of an artist – I simply enjoy being creative and making clothing that I love. I am inspired more by visual & performing art, classic film, traveling, and the amazing personal style of my friends. I am also heavily influenced by vintage apparel, and 1970’s silhouettes.
Who are some of your favorite clients?
All of my clients are my favorites! They all bring uniqueness to the table. It’s so amazing to watch a woman transform in the clothing. I often find that the design process is esteem building for most women. It makes them feel beautiful; accentuating what already exists inside. A client can mix & match pieces from the NIC*FISH collection to create innovative looks that work specifically for her personal style. This was one of the main reasons for developing the convertible pieces in the collection. With the Original Convertible Jumpsuit, a client can choose from a variety of pant or skirt silhouettes, and she can transform the jumpsuit to create her own unique look with the infinite tying options of the bodice sashes.
What advice do you have for women concerning fashion, and finding their own style?
It all starts within – Learn to love yourself, and the beauty you’ve been blessed with, inside & out. Learn to love all of your amazing attributes, internally & externally, and learn how to choose clothing that accentuates your very best features. Be true to yourself – wear what you like! There are no rules in self-expression. Treat yourself special, and invest in yourself. When you look & feel good, you exude a confidence that can never be shattered.
What’s your favorite color to wear and why? And Name one fashion item you can’t live without.
My favorite colors are ever changing, depending on my mood. Right now I’m into gold, black, white & gray, as well as pops of bright color like yellow, red & turquoise. Also I love funky accessories & jewelry – the bigger the better, especially earrings, pendants & bangles. And I love all things vintage – I can’t live without vintage apparel.
www.nicfishwomenswear.blogspot.com
Clients can also shop the collection online at www.nicfish.etsy.com . And if they are located in the Philadelphia area, select pieces from the collection can be found in Topstitch Boutique and Nestology Arts Collective.
*Check out pics from NIC*FISH clothing line and commercial below
-RS
