In the Fabric of Dreams:
The Story of Amanda and The ABOA Collective
All Images Courtesy of Amanda S. Narain
Photography by Jim Orgill
In a world where fashion often treads a predictable path, The ABOA Collective emerges as a vibrant splash of originality, not just for their designs but for the stories they tell. Blending art, fashion, and decor is Toronto-based Visual Artist/ Fashion Designer/ Interior Decorator Amanda S. Narain, whose journey into fashion is as unique as the collections she creates. We glimpse the heart and soul of The ABOA Collective as she shares her journey with passion and a deep-seated belief in her craft.
Spotlight on Startup Fashion Week Toronto
Reflecting on The ABOA Collective’s participation in Startup Fashion Week Toronto, Amanda’s pride was palpable. “It was a huge accomplishment,” Amanda reminisced. “To have our unique brand and the artwork behind it recognized among such talented designers on such a prestigious Canadian platform was incredibly validating.” The event wasn’t just a showcase but a celebration of the brand’s ethos and Amanda’s artistic journey.She shares that the media buzz, the meticulous planning by Jodi, the founder of SFW, and the exceptional work by Kit and the team transformed the event into a pivotal moment for The ABOA Collective.
Photography by Jim Orgill
Crafting Collections with Intent
When discussing the process of deciding themes and designs, Amanda’s approach is both intuitive and structured. “I start with trending colour palettes, setting the collection’s mood. Imagery, inspired often during my travels, transforms into paintings and patterns. These experiences translate into imagery, eventually becoming paintings, illustrations, and patterns that define our collections,” Amanda revealed. Blending spontaneity with careful planning reflects a devotion to creating fashion and experiences while she finds inspiration in life’s fleeting moments.
Bespoke Creations: A Time to Play
For Amanda, bespoke pieces are playgrounds of creativity, and it is a special process for her. “Our focus is on the artwork and its embellishments. I handle the entire process, from choosing fabrics to adding the final details. It’s time-consuming but incredibly fulfilling.” This hands-on approach sets The ABOA Collective apart, reflecting a commitment to craftsmanship and personal touch.
Sustainability at Heart
Sustainability is not an afterthought for The ABOA Collective; it’s a cornerstone of their ethos. “We print our fabrics eco-friendly and on-demand, reducing waste. We even use scraps in fashion shows or for developing new techniques,” Amanda stated. Her vision extends beyond current practices, with aspirations to introduce empowering workshops and upcycling programs reflecting a deep commitment to environmental responsibility and community engagement.
The ABOA Collective: A Name with a Story
What does ABOA stand for?— “The ABOA Collective is an acronym for ‘The Art Book of Amanda,’ which was my portfolio’s name. It’s not just a brand; it’s a piece of me. It’s powerful yet earthy – just like the art that fuels it. It’s my story, told through the language of fashion and art,” she explained. In those words, Amanda captured the essence of her brand: a personal journey transformed into a universal expression.
Blending Worlds: Art, Fashion, and Decor
Delving into how The ABOA Collective blends art with fashion and decor, Amanda explained, “Artwork is key in creating moods, evoking emotions. We draw from nature, striving to infuse calming, invigorating moods into our clients’ lives. This identity, running parallel across Art, Fashion, and Décor, each tells a part of the same story,” she said. This seamless blend gives The ABOA Collective its distinctive identity, inviting clients to experience emotions in myriad ways.
Artistic Diversity in Fashion
Amanda’s artwork, a vibrant spectrum ranging from abstract paintings to stippled ink illustrations, finds a unique voice in her fashion lines. She shared, “Though my art varies in style and medium, selectivity in pairing pieces within each collection weaves cohesive stories. Spring and Summer collections embody lightness and airy vibes while Fall and Winter embrace a more grounded streetwear, lifestyle appeal,” she shared. This thoughtful curation is Amanda’s signature, her dedication to maintaining a cohesive identity across diverse artistic expressions.
Photography by Jim Orgill
The Core Philosophy: “Mind. Body. Home”
The phrase “Mind. Body. Home” is central to the ethos of The ABOA Collective. Amanda elucidated its significance: “‘Mind. Body. Home’ mirrors ‘Art. Fashion. Home’. Art stimulates the mind; fashion is how we express ourselves physically— fabrics, patterns, and colour palettes play a key role in how a garment makes us feel while wearing it. The decor sets the tone for our personal spaces. We aim to inspire our clients to discover what truly speaks to them, fostering a sense of well-being and authenticity.” This philosophy isn’t just a tagline; it’s a holistic approach to living.
Unisex Fashion: Beyond Gender
The ABOA Collective’s approach to unisex fashion is refreshingly inclusive. “Our robes and vests cater to all, focusing on size, not gender. It’s about empowerment, about resonating with whoever is drawn to our designs,” Amanda explained. This approach of inclusivity is not just progressive; is a bold step in redefining fashion standards, emphasizing personal expression over conventional labels.
Inspiration Behind ‘WITH INTENT SS24’
Discussing her ‘WITH INTENT SS24’ collection, Amanda’s narrative was a blend of personal experiences and artistic expression. “The main motif featured throughout the collection is an Abstract Mandala inspired by a palm leaf I drew in Cuba. It captures the essence of that trip – the colours of sunrise and sunset, the emotions. It’s a series of moments transformed into fashion,” she shared. This collection, like all her work, is a personal diary open for the world to see.
Engaging with the Community
Staying relevant and connected is key for The ABOA Collective. “We share our growth, the stories behind our collections. We want to engage with our followers on a deeper level, exploring themes of personal development, blending art, fashion, and emotional wealth,” Amanda said. This strategy is about fostering a community, not just building a customer base.
A Vision of Adaptability
Looking ahead, Amanda is both realistic and optimistic. “The challenge is standing out in an industry dominated by fast fashion. Our focus is on self-expression, sustainability, and adapting to technological advancements while staying true to our core values of aligning Mind, Body, and Home,” she stated.In a world often dominated by fleeting trends and superficiality, Amanda’s approach to fashion as an art form that nurtures the soul and respects the environment is a reminder that in the right hands, fashion can be a powerful tool for expression, transformation and connection.