We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Tamy Idrobo a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Tamy, thank you so much for making time for us. We’ve always admired your ability to take risks and so maybe we can kick things off with a discussion around how you developed your ability to take and bear risk?
Honestly, I don’t think I’ve ever been the type to play it safe. When I decided to move to the U.S. at 21, without knowing anyone and with shaky English, I knew I was betting everything on my dreams. But I also understood that if you don’t take risks, you stay where you are. And I wasn’t born to stay still.
Breaking into the fashion industry in a country that isn’t mine has been a constant leap into the unknown. Getting to NYFW and navigating spaces where I didn’t know anyone was intimidating. Yes, imposter syndrome has visited me more times than I’d like to admit, but every time it tries to paralyze me, I remind myself: What’s the worst that could happen? That they say no? Well, I already have a no, so I’m going for the yes.
Building my personal brand as a stylist and designer has been another huge risk. My style is bold, dynamic, and reflects how I see fashion—fearless self-expression. I’ve worked hard to make a name for myself in the industry, connecting with artists and projects that align with my vision. It hasn’t always been easy, but I decided that if I wanted a place in this industry, I had to take it. Not wait for permission, but prove that my creativity and my work speak for themselves.
For me, taking risks isn’t about bravery—it’s about choosing myself every single day. Betting on what I believe in and trusting that, even if the journey is tough, every step is worth it. Because it is.
Appreciate the insights and wisdom. Before we dig deeper and ask you about the skills that matter and more, maybe you can tell our readers about yourself?
I’m Tamy Idrobo, a Colombian fashion designer and stylist. Since moving to the U.S., I’ve been building my path in the industry, exploring fashion as a language of expression. To me, it’s not just about clothing—it’s about telling stories, breaking rules, and challenging conventions through design and style.
I draw inspiration from history, music, and all forms of art. I don’t limit myself to a single style because I don’t have just one way of being. I love playing with the unexpected, mixing opposing elements, and finding beauty in disruption. My approach is to create visuals and garments that speak for themselves, conveying identity without the need for explanations.
Currently, I’m expanding my personal brand and developing my first collection, a project that encapsulates everything I’ve learned on this journey. I want to continue connecting with artists and creative minds who, like me, see fashion as a space without limits. To me, getting dressed is an act of authenticity, empowerment, and art in motion.
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
-Fearless Creativity, The ability to take risks and break the rules to express original ideas. Authenticity is key to standing out in fashion.
-Adaptability, Learning to navigate different environments and quickly adjust to new challenges. Constant change and learning are essential for growth.
-Building Connections. Establishing genuine relationships within the industry is crucial. Opportunities come through the people you know and how you connect with them.
These are the three qualities I would highlight at this moment in my process and my advice is to allow yourself to explore without fear of making mistakes. Keep an open mind and learn from every experience. Genuine connections are key to progress, so don’t underestimate the power of relationships on your journey.
What is the number one obstacle or challenge you are currently facing and what are you doing to try to resolve or overcome this challenge?
One of the biggest challenges I’m facing right now is transforming my work as a designer into a sustainable career. I’m in a transition phase where I’m building my personal brand and working on my first collection, but I’m still in the process of solidifying my presence in the industry and getting my work recognized and valued professionally.
What I’m doing to overcome this challenge is continuing to learn and explore how to take my vision of fashion to a wider audience. I’m seeking new opportunities and collaborations that help me connect with key people in the industry, always trusting in perfect timing. I know that each step has a purpose and that my process is being guided.
There’s still much to do, but the focus remains clear: finding the balance between creativity and sustainability so that my art becomes a solid career.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tamyidrobo/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@tamyidrobo7693
Image Credits
photographers
– louis valderrama
– felipe lugo
so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
