Abacoximeaning “pineapple” in Portuguese, is a Brooklyn-based chain that focuses on design with handcrafted materials and hand-dyed fabrics and supports local artisans.
How long have you been designing, and how did you get into it?
I studied visual arts and textile design, and after a couple of years trying to find my way into the industry in NYC, I finally started working as a print and textile design assistant for other brands. I did it for a few years and then first came up with Abacoxi while I was a freelance designer in 2013.
What are the characteristics of the brand and what are the typical products that you know about?
Everything is designed with inclusiveness and flexibility in mind. I tend to make things that can be worn and worn and used in multiple ways, either reversible or stretchable to fit multiple sizes. I’m very inspired by traditional clothing — a sari, for example — that can work for almost anyone. This also goes hand in hand with sustainability, creating meaningful works that last and are reused over time.
The Eva Dress has been one of my biggest best sellers. I’m sure it’s because it fits all body sizes and shapes and the price is very reasonable considering the quantity and quality of Indian cotton fabrics. Because the bodice is made of stretchy felt, it stretches and moves with you and allows for some size variation from year to year. We just launched a mini version of this dress as part of our new Stingray collection in plant-dyed custom woven organic cotton, which I absolutely love.
The Blouse Divya and Dress Divya, named after my sister, are also featured pieces inspired by sari. They are one shoulder and have a ruffle attachment that can be worn in a variety of ways.
Why is ethical production important to you, and how do you support the artisans you work with to bring Abacaxi to life?
I truly appreciate every opportunity to work with hand-weavers and artisans who are working on ancestral crafts that are in danger of extinction. As a weaver and textile designer, I’m most excited about the custom fabric design process and seeing how skilled artisans can make my designs come true. But more than that, when you buy one of our products, you’re not just getting a beautiful, quality garment. You are also directly supporting those who have built their communities around these delicate traditions.
What are some highlights of your career so far?
The latest thing that got me really excited was creating an Abacaxi editorial for Vogue India and work with the model Anita Jane Pathammavong and my friend and photographer Ankur Maniar about this project.
In 2020, I was chosen to be a part of Teen Vogue’s Generation Next show, it was a highlight for Abacaxi to be recognized that way, amid the pandemic and all.
Another highlight is definitely my first show production in October 2021 for the Stingray spring/summer 2022 collection, which just debuted in our store. I also actually worked on the casting myself and put together a beautiful diverse group of models that I have worked with over the past few years. We also had an all-female and gay team and just had the best time that day. It’s hard to believe they’re all in the same space after a few years of isolation. It’s a very celebratory moment — not just for me and Abacaxi but hopefully for the models. Many connections were made that day.
How do you think this industry can be inclusive of all women?
When it comes to inclusion for women, the conversation must include both transgender and gender non-binary women.
