South’s Personal Fashion Designer: Abby Olson

photo+taken+by+Alternative+Fashion+Mob

photo taken by Alternative Fashion Mob

Gwen Busch

Westerville South has many students filled with incredible potential and talent, and Senior Abby Olson is currently rocking all things fashion.

Olson is sometimes amazed by what she has already accomplished within the fashion industry, like hosting her own fashion shows and completing multiple commissions. 

Olson has shared her talent through Westerville South’s Theatre performances. She made and designed the dress Abby Messina, a South alumna, wore in the production of Pajama Game during Hernando’s hideaway scene.

Photo courtesy of the WSHS Theater Department, Caleb J., Abby M., and Tyler C. performing in “Pajama Games”.

 Her dress from Pajama Game was one of her favorite creations along with her finale dress from her Alternative Fashion Week 2019 collection, which was inspired by storm clouds.  This fashion week was put on by Alternative Fashion Mob, who promotes small designers.

Her talent in making gowns and other attire has boosted her confidence, she said. Olson has seen just how tough the design industry can be but it did not stop her.  Instead, it has inspired her to get a head start. 

Olsen said, when she was younger, she looked up to fashion role models such as Coco Chanel and Alexander McQueen.  She credits McQueen with helping her realize her passion in life. Olson has already put on multiple fashion shows; her first show originated from an English project in her freshman year.

 However, the Fashion Mob found her work soon after and noticed her talent in which they invited her to do another sponsored show. 

Life can be challenging when balancing fashion and school, but Olson does whatever she can with her free time.  She said her family helps keep her from procrastinating. However, she believes that balancing school, home, and fashion is the biggest struggle.

“I’m the kind of person that doesn’t flake on things once I make a commitment. If I say I’ll be there, you can bet on it that I will be,” Olson said.

 She plans to attend college to study fashion design, obtain a bachelor’s degree, and then pursue a career in the fashion capitals of the world like New York or Paris. 

 Her favorite article of clothing to design is gowns or formal dresses and high waisted jeans. She takes custom orders for special events and costumes on occasion. Pricing depends on the fabric, and she is usually paid $10 for every hour she works on commission.