Interview with Konrad Parol

No tags for this post.

Patryk Chilewicz: At some point, you were one of the most promising designers. Where are you now?

Konrad Parol: I think that nothing has changed, and I am still (laughs). But seriously, I heard lately , that I threw everything for the theater, which is not so true. From the beginning, I stand for my independence. I didn’t comply my collection to spotlights dictatorship. I’ve been financially independent and earned for everything on my own . Due to some unexpected consequences, I had to capitulate for a moment and heal my budget a little… I didn’t foresee that this temporary pause will last so long. But I didn’t give up and consequently strive for PAROL to return. It will take a while, but I’ll come back stronger and more mature.

Fot. Krzysztof Wyżyński

What do you do now?

In the meantime, I managed to achieve one of my goals and start collaborating with theater and opera. Thanks to Maja Kleczewska who believed and gave me a chance. For two years I’ve been designing costumes for the theater. Another goal that I accomplished during the ” forced ” break is creating a younger, more affordable BLGR Boys Girls Left Right line . It’s unisex , street brand – more democratic and directed to a wider range of customers. I believe that I managed to keep my DNA in this small project.

Fot. Krzysztof Wyżyński

Projects of your clothes were very bold , in opposition to the prevailing minimalism of Polish designers. People bought these ideas ?

In Poland people told me I’m nuts and asked who will be wearing it, there were few exceptions such as Janusz Noniewicz or Michal Pirog . In the West, in fact in the East, in Asia , people bought it. Asian customers and boutiques from the first collection REBELS FW 2009 trusted me and let me into their backyard. Our collaboration was very good and seemed to be long-term. But what thwarted my plans was tsunami in Japan in 2011. This is the main reason for my current absence.

Fot. FW Tuliński

Polish designers have passion for modest, almost ascetic forms, where it comes from ?

Simple – the economy and demand. Conditions are dictated by the trade and customers . Produce cheap and sell expensive. In fact trade in Poland is very young , it recently stopped crawling and took its first conscious steps. We had to make up in short time, what our peers deal with from birth. We learn quickly and perspectives seem well.

Fot. FW Tuliński

You’re a little aside. You don’t visit colleagues shows, you don’t integrate with stylists and photographers. Why?

I’m an old school man. If someone invites me , then I’m using this invitation, but without that I’m never coming as uninvited . Living in spotlights always stressed me. The worst moment I remember was when I had to go and take a bow after every show. I am an introvert and I’m feeling comfortable when I’m invisible.
I have contact with verified photographers and stylists, with whom realized joint projects. In fact, it’s small group. Life doesn’t revolve only around fashion, flashes, stylists and photographers. There are so many interesting people not related to this industry , that it would be a shame for me to focus only on brand events. Besides, I’m completely absorbed by the theater. Lately and in fact I’m not at home for months .

Fot. Krzysztof Wyżyński

Does Polish fashion have chance to go outside the little black or white and same faces? I have the impression that the company is quite ossified …

I don’t think so . It depends on how you look at it. Mainstream is not fond of me. It is actually fossilized and slowly starts eating its own tail . From the beginning, I was closer to off , which is bursting with new names and creativity. You won’t find boring white or little black dress .

And if not fashion, then what?

If not fashion, then theater, opera and film . Fortunately, I have it all and don’t have to wonder ‘what if?’ . I’m lucky, because I love what I do.

Interview with Konrad Parol

Komentarze