Maria Isabel Abarca

I have an extensive background in fashion consumerism. My latest role allowed me to work in tech and fashion, working through visual design, product management, and merchandising strategies for Amazon's Style Visual team. My role has been ever evolving to better suit the start-up business needs.

 

My previous role focused more on the business acumen of stores, customer experience retention, merchandising, buying, project management, and leadership of in-store teams at Michaels Stores Inc. Additionally I have designed, and curated the visual architecture of various segments for Forever 21 HQ, and the Walt Disney Co.

I excel in various aspects of consumerism from merchandising, marketing, product launches, project management, public relations, product development/management, sales and visual design. I also have done freelance work for the Walter Mendez Atelier LLC. developing marketing, brand awareness, social media presence, special events coordinating, marketing campaigns, and public facing strategies.

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I am a  graduate from California State University, Long Beach from the College of Health and Human Sciences. My emphasis was in Merchandising and Design. I was fortunate to study abroad during my time at CSULB in Italy with University di Brescia. While abroad I absorbed vast knowledge in luxury product development, visual design, global sourcing, textile manufacturing, luxury retailing & marketing. I learned product development from Story Loris based in Lago Garda who produces silk and chiffon products for Fendi, Gucci, and other labels. Meanwhile, in Firenze I learned from renowned feather masters Mazzanti Piume on partnership work between them and luxury giants Dolce & Gabanna, Atelier Versace, Yves Saint Laurent, Moschino, and so many more on what the journey a feather can take. Another highlight of studying abroad was learning about sustainably made products with Antico Setificio Fiorentino  whom specialize in weaving silk since 1786 on Leonardo Da Vinci looms. While abroad I absorbed vast knowledge in luxury product development, global sourcing, textile manufacturing, luxury retailing & Marketing.

I have a great aptitude to learning and growing continuously in any role I am in. The quote “strive for the highest” inspires me to always strive to give it my all-in work and life, and never limit personal development.  This website mariaabarca.com is my professional website as it pertains to my various roles in fashion consumerism.