Spotted: Blair and Serena running through Manhattan in matching Lorick originals— or at least, that's what the unnamed narrator of the hit show Gossip Girl should be reporting in her popular tell-all source for Manhattan's elite.

While the fashion world may just be getting to know Lorick— the eponymous collection by Abigail Lorick— from her latest Fashion Week Spring '09 presentation, hordes of Gossip Girl addicts are already familiar with the work of the young model turned designer whose looks could have her mistaken for one of the show's own starlets. Her designs, in fact, play the part of Eleanor Waldorf's high-end line, featured throughout the season on the likes of GG's leading ladies.

Perhaps an ode to her former days as a model on Paris and Milan runways for designers like Alberta Ferretti, her own collections feature flattering, feminine silhouettes for the modern girl that revive an old-world, sophisticated elegance, with a flirty edge. However, while the designs might suggest she spent her youth with pinkies upturned and ladies sipping tea on the Upper East Side, this current New York City resident and frequent globetrotter didn't always start out as the big city type, but claims her roots in the small-town Florida atmosphere of Amelia Island.

Now working on her next collection in Delhi, India, the designer spent some time with psychoPEDIA to discuss treasured hometown memories and unveil her list of fashion favorites:

How would you describe Amelia Island to an outsider?
Heaven. Huge live oak trees with Spanish moss hanging all about, oysters, salt, the ocean, fishing, bicycles, golf carts, tennis, quiet peace, warm slow time. It’s the kind of place that gives you the impression you are standing still, which allows you to stop and breath in— at that moment, you look up and realize life is pretty great.

What was your experience growing up there?
It was a child's dream. We had so much freedom and were always outside. Going to the beach was an everyday affair in the summertime. We practically lived in the water. Golf, tennis, sailing— these activities were always accessible. But at the same token, I knew that there was more. At seven years old, I decided one day I would live in New York.

Did you miss anything once you left for the brighter lights of Milan and Paris? I always missed the ocean but didn’t really miss Amelia until I became settled in New York— when I understood the beauty of quietness and how lucky I was to grow up in such a natural haven.

Now that you've made a life for yourself in NYC, what do you find keeps you connected to Amelia Island?
I always need to go home for the peace, quiet, and rejuvenation. Going home is always a retreat for me. I love going back to Amelia.

What bits of inspiration for your designs have you taken from each city in your travels?
The subtle chic of the women in Paris, the draping of India, the elegance of the last generation of elders in Milan, the old hollywood glam of L.A., the clean architecture lines in the Greek Islands, and the lighting in Buenos Aires.

As someone drawn to India, would you ever integrate their traditional fashions into your line?
I am in love with India. The sari is the most elegant ensemble a woman can wear. To take a piece of fabric and drape it into a perfect outfit is truly amazing. Each woman literally makes it her own, and she looks elegant in every situation.

Were there teen dramas you grew up watching, and did they influence your own style?
My So-Called Life and 90210. I didn't really get the fashion in My So Called Life, which made me understand I had a lot to learn. 90210— not so inspiring.

Which fictional character's closet would you like to raid?
Miss Holly Golightly.

Do you feel like the "uptown girl" persona portrayed in Gossip Girl fits your designs, or do you have another personality in mind when creating your collections?
I don’t think of the uptown girl. In the past, I’ve thought of Gossip Girl, especially when they opted to do an Eleanor Waldorf (Lorick) fashion show. But going forward, I’m seeing that our Lorick lady is growing up and finding herself in more sophisticated attire. I’m creating an ideal woman and working to accommodate her needs and desires.

Who’s the best-dressed Gossip Girl character?
Serena's mom.

Which show or movie would be your dream to costume design?
8 1/2 by Federico Fellini.

Oppositely, which show is totally out of touch and needs you to provide a makeover?
Honestly, I don’t have cable.

Number one fashion icon?
Anna Karina in all the Godard films. Her fashion came from within, she wore the clothes— they never wore her.

What’s the inspiration behind your upcoming collection?
La Mariee Etait en Noir (The Bride wore Black), the textures of Anselm Kiefer. Our Lorick lady is standing in the midst of melting ice caps this season and looking better than ever.

~Leann Peterson


Discover more of Amelia Island with Abigail's personal recommendations:

Moon River Pizza
Le Clos; "Not so low key"
Plantation Beach Club
The Book Loft, 214 Centre St. (904) 261-8991
Eight Flags Antique Market, 604 Centre St, (904)277-8550; "During the day, if you are lucky, you will have the opportunity to buy peanuts from Felix on his bicycle. And if you are really lucky, he will play you a tune on his harmonica."
Palace Saloon, "Must see Get Low. He is a regular."
Date Spot; "The sun setting on the marsh. I know it's cliche, but you have to do it!"


First photo by Last Night's Party