Student
DEBUT Student Nadia Tymkowicz's Collection Was Inspired by Her Mexican Heritage
Southern California native Nadia Tymkowicz always knew she wanted to be a fashion designer, but her parents hoped she’d pursue a career in medicine or law. After seeing their daughter’s unwavering passion for design, Nadia transferred to FIDM from a community college with the full support of her family. We caught up with the designer to discuss the cultural inspiration behind her DEBUT collection and why she’s grateful for her fellow Advanced Fashion Design Students.
Tell us about your DEBUT collection: One day I came across an online documentary about escaramuzas, Mexican female equestrians. I was inspired by these women, who were fearless, confident, and bold. I decided to take the elements from this sport, as well as my Mexican heritage, to create my collection “Poderosa.” Using my heritage as an influence was very personal for me. Throughout most of my life I never appreciated my cultural background. Creating this collection meant overcoming the stigma and stereotypes and embracing this beautiful culture. For fabrics and trims, I decided to combine soft and delicate elements with strong and brusque elements to express empowered femininity, such as lace and organza paired with black faux leather and heavy silver hardware.
What was your path to FIDM? From a very young age I knew I wanted to become a fashion designer. At first my parents weren’t thrilled with the idea; they preferred a traditional route for me, such as a career as a doctor or an attorney. But after relentlessly pursuing my passion, they made the decision to support my dreams in every way they could. I transferred from a community college and found my place at FIDM.
How is FIDM helping you get closer to your career goals? FIDM gave me the tools and knowledge to improve and refine my skills and talent. I am the person I am today because of my hard work and perseverance alongside FIDM’s guidance.
No one could have imagined a global pandemic would force DEBUT to be cancelled. How are you supporting one another or comforting yourself during this difficult time? At first, the cancellation of the runway show was devastating to all of us, uncertain of what was to become of our collections that each of us put our blood, sweat, and tears into for the past nine months. Currently, we feel positive about the postponement of the show. Being able to showcase our collections as was intended is the top priority to each of us. I’m extremely fortunate that over the course of this program I’ve become close with my fellow DEBUT students, and I’m thankful that, as scary as this situation is, we are in this together and I couldn’t be more grateful to have been in this program with them.
What do you hope people take away when seeing your designs? I hope my audience sees a bold, confident, and powerful woman who embraces her femininity and sensuality to show strength and tenacity.
FIDM regrets that, due to precautionary measures brought on by coronavirus, or COVID-19, we are canceling this year’s DEBUT and related events. In compliance with government recommendations, we plan to reschedule the event when it is possible to do so. We take the safety of our guests, students, staff, and faculty very seriously and thank you in advance for your understanding during this uncertain time.
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Categories: Advanced Fashion Design Student
