Featured Student: Kendall Marie Warson

What is your name, or any nicknames you go by?
Kendall, but my family usually calls me Kendy, and sometimes Trendy Kendy as a bit of a joke.

Where are you from?
Just north of San Francisco in a town called Marin. I love New York, but I am a California girl at heart!

What brought you to Parsons?
I’ve always dreamed of becoming a fashion designer, and once I visited Parsons I knew it was the perfect fit for me. I love how every student is encouraged to pursue their individual style and find their creative voice.

Where do you find inspiration from?
Inspiration hits me when I least expect it, and it is different every time. Usually I start with a feeling I want to convey, or a narrative I want to explore. Once I have that brewing in my head, I build a visual imagery and develop textures or textiles. I am always very aware of and inspired by my environmental surroundings, so I gather my research by exploring New York City or traveling to new places. Recently I have been inspired by ethnographic research and the people I speak to or observe on the streets.

How would you describe your work and design style?
My designs are funky chic. My creative process is experimental and usually draws me towards edgy, feminine silhouettes and a vibrant colorful palette.

What do you aspire to do in the future, why do you design what you design?
In the future I would love to have my own brand. I used to design purely from abstract inspirations, but now I am developing an awareness of environmental and social issues surrounding the fashion industry, and I think it is vital to be ethically responsible designer and use my creative capabilities to address, and help solve problems rather than ignorantly sustain them. Ultimately I hope to have a brand or be part of a design team that challenge the norms of the industry and re-defines the common idea of what “fashion” is and can be.

What is your Instagram handle, and/or website?
My website is kendallmarie.com and my instagram is @kendallwarson

What special courses are you taking?
Currently I am taking fashion and the narrative which is helping translate every element of my research process into a cohesive story. It is very valuable and supplements my other classes well.

How would you describe your experience so far as a Parsons student?
Highly exhausting and highly rewarding.

What is one of the most important things you have learned/experienced at Parsons?
To grow, you have to take risks and push yourself out of your box. Maybe the result will not be perfect, or maybe you will really screw up, but the next time you try it you will have improved, and ultimately, you are far better off than you were by staying in your comfort zone. The best way to learn is to make mistakes and having the courage to take risks while trusting yourself throughout the learning process is an invaluable skill as a designer.

What keeps you motivated when there is too much work load?
Seeing my friends and family! I always try to finish as soon as possible so I can see them.

If you could offer one piece of advice to an incoming student, what would that be?
Be prepared to work hard and know in a few years it will all pay off!

KendallMarie.com
instagram.com/kendallwarson