All About Tabula Rasa
WHAT IS “TABULA RASA”?
Tabula rasa (Latin: "scraped tablet," though often translated "blank slate")
noun
an absence of preconceived ideas or predetermined goals; a clean slate.
VIDEO BY KATRINA SANTANA
TO ME, TABULA RASA REPRESENTS A NEW BEGINNING.
My last collection was made in June 2017. It’s now January 2019 and I’m finally releasing a collection after such a long time. That break felt good and it was much needed. I honestly felt like I was burnt out from the last one and I definitely learned a few lessons since then. Because I was able to take such a long break from designing, I was able to redirect my energy into other aspects of my life. 2018 started off with a bang and month after month was full of memories, experiences, lessons and growth. I got a job after being unemployed for a few months, met my incredible boyfriend and gained many important people in my life, built a closer relationship with God, my family and friends, and even killed two semesters at school (and now I have a semester left before I transfer!). Last year really built a foundation for what’s to come in 2019, and to start the year off with this collection is just the beginning.
I’ll admit that it was hard finding motivation to start on a new collection. After being gone for so long, I didn’t know what exactly I wanted to do and “comeback” with. I kept on pushing back dates, sketching designs that led to nowhere and was just stuck for many weeks. I started designing the first few sketches in May, and didn’t finish everything until a week before the shoot in December.
I look at this year as a clean slate. We now have 355 beautiful days left in the year to make something happen.
TABULA RASA IS A 6 LOOK COLLECTION
I try to push myself to do something new with each collection I’ve done since 2016. Dark colors used to always be my go-to. However, a lot of my personal style has changed in 2018 since I’ve really begun to discover my aesthetic. I have a girly/feminine taste but love to throw in subtle streetwear details into my looks by using hardware such as zippers, buckles, and rings.
THE FABRIC THAT PULLED IT ALL TOGETHER…
…was this beautiful embroidered lightweight cotton. I had such a difficult time figuring out a color way for this collection, but knew I wanted to work with pastels and neutrals. This fabric spoke to me the moment I saw it. I debated for about 30 minutes with my aunt until I pulled the trigger and bought the whole remaining bolt of it.
Here is an interview I did with my talented videographer and long time friend, Katrina. I explain more in depth about why I’ve been gone for so long, the inspiration behind my collection, and what’s to come for the future.
Of course, I had to make a fun vlog! It was awesome to finally let loose after months of working. My boyfriend did such an incredible job filming & I edited everything. I’ll be more active on YouTube in 2019!
HERE IS THE BEAUTIFUL TEAM THAT HELPED ME MAKE EVERYTHING HAPPEN:
PHOTOGRAPHER: MIKAEL ANGELO
HTTPS://ITSMIKAELANGELO.COM/IG: @MIKAEL.ANGELO
I’ve been wanting to work with Mikael for years, and to finally work with him was so worth the wait. As you can see, he captured everything beautifully and I can’t thank him enough. Also, shoutout to his homegirl, Bianca, for helping direct some of the shots.
VIDEOGRAPHER: KATRINA SANTANA
IG: @UNAMUSEDSHARK
I’ve known Kat since freshman year of high school and she has been one of those people who have supported me through everything. She has grown into an incredible videographer and I can’t wait to see what else she does in the future.
MODELS:
Each of you are so incredibly talented as a model and with what you do when you’re off camera. Thank you for being a part of this collection and I can’t thank you guys enough for being the ones who brought my designs to life. You made it to be everything I imagined from sketch to the final product.
GRACE AN
IG: @GRACEUNHAEAN
My best friend since the 1st grade…you’ve been there for pretty much every collection and I’m so thankful that you help me the best you can behind the scenes. You iron and steam my clothes well…I guess ;)
JUSTIN CASTRO
IG: @JBRUZ
Thank you for finding the name, Tabula Rasa. There’s a lot I’m thankful for when it comes to you and I can go on and on but you already know the deal. Also, thank you for being there literally every second of this collection from the moment I said that I needed to make this happen. I love you.
AND TO EVERYONE THAT HAS SUPPORTED ME SINCE DAY ONE…
….or even if you just started following me yesterday. Thank you, thank you, thank you. I wouldn’t be where I am today without you all. To my lovely parents and my Aunt Claire: I love you guys and thank you for supporting me the moment I asked if I could use Lola’s sewing machine to make pocket tees when I was 13. I know you guys thought this was just a phase, but looks like this is pretty much what I’m doing the rest of my life! I hope that my sewing until 4am doesn’t bother you, especially since my new sewing room (thanks, Dad!) is right next to yours.
Whether you’ve bought my designs or simply left me a like, subscribed to my channel, comment, or even a click on my website, it means a lot to me. I started off blogging my designs on a monthly basis and never thought I would be doing what I do today. Chasing this dream is difficult at times, but I’ll forever be grateful and blessed for the support I have behind me. Much love to all of you. Let’s make 2019 a great one.
I hope y’all love Tabula Rasa as much as I do.