Chicana in the City Series x Valley Views SFV Media Interview
November 7, 2023
I recently had the honor of being interviewed by the Fabulous Natalie Garcia, an LA Native Poet, Writer & Author. Natalie’s Chicana in the City Series spotlights pioneers and innovators who are reshaping the narrative of what is to be CHICANO or Latine in entertainment, fashion, and beauty industries. These brown and proud leaders are actively pivoting and breaking down barriers and challenging cultural obstacles and stereotypes in mainstream media and prominently white spaces. Chicana in the City allows guests to be vulnerable, lead with their intuition, and connect with their cultura to create their legacy and inspire future generations to come.
About Natalie
Natalie is a bold and audacious Metaphysical Author, Editorial Writer, Brujita and Entrepreneur-Entertainer. A Chicana who embodies her cultura her own way and represents the 818 San Fernando Valley with mucho orgullo. Like many Chicanos she has struggled with her identity most of her life. Growing up as the daughter of Mexican immigrants in the heart of Los Angeles she always carried the narrative of not being Mexican enough nor American enough. Natalie learned to embrace her out of the box free spirited energy and is now challenging the mainstream perception of what Chicanoism is suppose to look, act, speak and be. She has bulldozed her way into spaces where not many Chicanas have been and is set out to make a name for herself. Natalie is highlighting and connecting with other Chicanx and Latines leaders in entrepreneurship, pop-culture, fashion and entertainment who are reshaping their narrative and breaking barriers for the community.
The Interview
Fashion is more than fashion here! What does fashion mean to you?
To me, fashion is a mode of self-expression, an art form, and a powerful platform to champion causes close to my heart. As an Indigiqueer model, fashion is more than just clothing on a body—it’s a declaration of identity, a celebration of diversity, and a tool for visibility. It’s an avenue where I can intertwine my passions for mental health awareness, LGBTQ+ advocacy, and the Fashion. Every piece of clothing I wear, or showcase tells a story and echoes my beliefs. It’s my Queer Magic envisioning fashion outside gender binaries and oppressive systems.
How has choosing a career in fashion impacted your life?
Fashion has given me a unique platform to amplify my voice and merge my professional endeavors with my personal passions. Being in the fashion industry, I’ve been privileged to collaborate with both local and international designers, which has broadened my horizons and understanding of global perspectives. Moreover, modeling has enhanced my work as a therapist and founder of PsychoSocial Media, creating a synergy that allows me to speak on important issues with a broader audience.
Why do you think LAFW hasn’t reached the level of other fashion weeks such as NYC or Paris?
While LAFW has its unique charm and cultural resonance, it might not have the centuries-old legacy and historical background that Paris or NYC have in the fashion world. Additionally, the infrastructure, global attention, and media coverage surrounding NYC and Paris are formidable. That said, LAFW has been steadily gaining traction, and with the increasing representation of diverse voices, I believe it’s only a matter of time before it carves its own prominent space in the global fashion discourse.
We are seeing more BIPOC designers and brands highlighting at LAFW than any other years. How do you feel about it and what do you think is still needed or missing?
It’s incredibly heartening to see more BIPOC designers and brands taking center stage at LAFW. Representation matters, and this shift is vital for the industry. However, the work doesn’t stop here. We need to ensure this isn’t a fleeting trend but a sustained effort. Behind the scenes, more BIPOC voices in decision-making roles, consistent financial backing, mentorship opportunities, and systemic support are critical for long-term change.
If you were to disrupt or replace one current fashion trend, what would it be?
Fashion, in many ways, reflects society’s larger attitudes. I’d like to disrupt the trend of fast fashion due to its environmental and ethical implications. I believe in promoting sustainable and ethical practices in fashion, where both the planet and its people are treated with respect and care.
I recently wrote an article about Latinas always being fashion trendsetters, but not getting the credit they deserve. What are your thoughts on that and what can we as consumers and a Latine community do more about it?
The Latine community has always been a reservoir of rich culture, creativity, and trendsetting prowess. It’s unfortunate, though not surprising, that they often don’t receive the credit they rightly deserve. As consumers, we can champion and uplift Latina designers and brands, making intentional choices to support them. Within the Latine community, celebrating our own, sharing stories, and providing platforms for visibility can shift the narrative in their favor.
Who is your favorite Latine Fashion Icon?
There are many incredible Latine fashion icons who’ve made significant contributions to the industry. However, if I had to choose one, it would be Selena Quintanilla. Not only for her undeniable style and grace but for the impact she made as an artist and the trail she blazed for future Latine artists and fashionistas.
Look out for more collabs with Chicana in the City coming soon!