Maria Isabel Abarca
Consumer Products Specialist
Hello
I have an extensive background in fashion consumerism. My current role has allowed me to focus more on business acumen of stores from customer experience retention, merchandising, buying, and managing teams at Michaels Stores Inc. My previous roles have allowed me to design, and curate the visual architecture of various segments for Forever 21 HQ, and Walt Disney Co.
I excel in various aspects of consumerism from merchandising, fashion marketing, product launches, public relations, product development, sales and visual design. I also have done freelance work for the Walter Collection brand and the Ryan & Walter LLC developing special events during New York Fashion week. During NYFW I coordinated and executed two fashion shows. The Walter Collection brand and the Ryan & Walter LLC are high end luxury apparel brands that revolve around custom made luxury evening wear. The designs have been worn by many celebrities including Beyoncé, and Jennifer Lopez.
I am a graduate from California State University, Long Beach from the College of Health and Human Sciences. My emphasis was in Fashion Merchandising. I was fortunate to study abroad during my time at CSULB in Italy. While abroad I absorbed vast knowledge in luxury product development, 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.
