Patricia Orellana - Fashion Designer

Trends come and go, but great fashion never goes out of style. Patricia Orellana, creator of Orellana Designs, makes great fashion. Fresh, mod, and tailored describe her line of clothes. The fashion world never stops searching for the next hot thing - and I think Ms. Orellana has what it takes to shine.

She showed me five beautiful pieces from her line: "Isabel Top" in both black and gold, "Driving Pant" in beige, "Driving Jacket" in beige, and "Margarite Dress" in black. The "Isabel" drapes across one shoulder with an elegant twist on the usual neckline. The tie at the back creates a playful touch. The "Driving Pant" is sleek with delightful curvy pocket flaps on the seat. My new obsession, the "Driving Jacket", invokes Beatnik cool with its hidden zipper and short collar, plus the metal snaps down the sleeves add a rock and roll edge. Sweet elegance describes the "Margarite" - a silky black dress that hugs and kisses the body.

When did you know fashion had to be your career?
I figured it out late in the game. I spent years in finance because I thought it was more practical. I came to realize that there is nothing more practical than following your passion.
I went back to school at Parson's School of Design to study fashion. I was working full-time and taking classes at night and on weekends. It was really tough, but it was worth it. Just to be working on my own fashion line and also at Ingwa;Melero has been life-changing.

Fashion philosophy?
I just love elegance and clean lines. A beautiful garment that is well-tailored can make any woman feel confident.

Thoughts on Fashion Week?
I have been attending shows since I moved to New York seven years ago. I love it. I have worked back-stage as a stylist assistant and also as a fashion show coordinator. It's chaotic but exhilarating back-stage at shows.
Watching from the seats is really fun as well. Even though most shows only last a few minutes, it is always exciting to see what new ideas and silhouettes the most brilliant designers are coming up with.

Favorite designers and why:
Oscar de la Renta - He has a classic elegance in his designs but still always creates looks that are fresh and original.
Carolina Herrera - Another great designer whose line exudes classic elegance.
Zac Posen - As a young designer, he has accomplished so much. His designs are bold and sometimes even over the top, but each is very much beautiful. His tailored looks are fantastic and women always look amazing in his clothing.

What inspires you?
I love the buildings in New York. I like to play with geometrics so the architecture here always gives me ideas. Also, the way that New York has such a diverse community of people with varied fashion styles has always open my eyes to fresh looks.

Favorite material(s)?
I like stretch cotton sateen. That is what the beige "Driving Pant" and "Driving Jacket" are made out of. Silk Charmeuse is also a lovely luxurious feeling fabric.

Favorite places to shop?
Well, mostly I have been wearing Ingwa;Melero, but the small boutiques in Nolita and the west village are my favorite. I like that small designers are represented and you can find the most unique items, ones that no one else will be wearing. Another reason why I love vintage clothes shopping, which New York has plenty of!

Trends with staying power?
Belted-everything! I love how flattering this look is for women. Belting at the smallest part of your waist creates beautiful curves and has a nice chic elegance.

Trends that need to die?
The bib-top. Enough said.
Super-Platformed patent leather hooker shoes. Ugh.

In five years you will be:
Orellana Designs will have taken off and I will be chin-deep in orders from fabulous boutiques all over the country!