LA-based Taylor Pardee has developed her own creative world where she shares her love for fashion and design with other stylish individuals. Her brand Bella Venice provides a story for all who come across it and expresses how “intimate and beautiful” it can be to stay true to your artistic freedom.
Taylor expressed that since the end of the pandemic, there has been a “huge shift in culture, design and fashion because people are now very focused on the art vs. the artist.” Wanting to do her own thing, she decided to explore the fashion industry at the age of eighteen by creating her own, beautiful brand. Her business kicked off with her first two pieces, the Bailey Bralette Top and the Chy Shorts, in two different colorways.
The start of her business was a time when Taylor realized that making sustainable pieces was very important to her and she decided that all of her pieces would be made from deadstock fabric found in downtown LA. Being from California has inspired many components of her business, including the origin of the brand’s name, which incorporates her hometown of Venice, and her middle name “Bella.” Taylor says, “living in California has 100% inspired my clothing, there’s lots of vintage clothing there.”
Taylor has happily provided Sheesh Magazine with some insight on what it takes to own a business and how to succeed in it.
Q: What makes a brand unique? What sets Bella Venice apart from other fashion brands?
TAYLOR: “I started the brand at a young age and had never taken a business or finance class. It was definitely difficult to create a website, I’m not very techy, but I had a great friend who I worked with. Bella Venice is a way for people to connect. I really love the community I have and it’s a way to be creative with other people.”
Q: How do you keep up with your business and let it grow?
TAYLOR: “I’m very active on social media and am always promoting new designs. I believe that art needs to tell a story, so I make sure to make my vision very clear online. Connecting with other creative people has also definitely helped my business thrive because it’s a very powerful place to be.”
Q: What does marketing look like for your brand?
TAYLOR: “I do all of the creative direction. I work with very specific photographers for my photoshoots and make sure that they kind of see the vibe. It’s very important to me to have a distinct look, especially with old digital cameras and film.”
Q: What is your design process like?
TAYLOR: “Since everything’s deadstock fabric, it’s kind of hard to get attached to a specific design or pattern. I usually have a simple idea going into the fabric store and look for something similar and sustainable. I make sure to make samples and patterns before creating the pieces.”
Q: How do you keep up with designing for the seasons?
TAYLOR: “Honestly I need to get better at it, because I am in California. The mesh is definitely in though and layering is fun, but I’m making some long dresses right now for the winter.”
Q: Do you have any advice for individuals with an interest in starting their own business?
TAYLOR: “Stay kind and curious. Be sure to ask questions, write down ideas and most importantly follow through. Every mistake is a good one because you’ll learn from it, some days I’ve wanted to quit but you just have to keep moving forward. Also make sure to be conscious of what you’re spending and your finances.”
Q: What’s next for Bella Venice?
TAYLOR: “I’d really love to start a pop-up, so everyone can have a creative space to collab. My new line is coming out soon, I’m making tons of dresses, so stay tuned for that. Love you guys!”
Keep up with all things beautiful on Taylor’s Instagram and website.
