Abi Ferrin: Fashion Inspired by Freedom and Purpose
by Kristin Ciccarelli
These days, Abi Ferrin is savoring a wonderfully fulfilling life. As a devoted mother to her nine-month-old son Elijah, who brings her immense joy, she is also an accomplished fashion designer. Her distinctive creations can be found in numerous high-end boutiques, and her flagship store in Uptown’s West Village is a testament to her success.
However, Ferrin’s journey has not always been smooth. In her earlier years while living in California, she encountered a so-called “Prince Charming” whose facade masked a harsh reality of emotional, verbal, and physical abuse. He plunged her into debt, maxing out her credit cards to the tune of hundreds of thousands of dollars, and systematically isolated her from her supportive family and friends. A pivotal moment came when a compassionate limousine driver, witnessing the abusive relationship, offered to testify on her behalf. Another guiding figure, Detective Hill, reassured her by saying, “You’re my sister. And no one treats my sister this way.” Reflecting on that time, Ferrin shares, “Having an advocate made an immense difference.”
Despite the trauma she experienced, Ferrin refuses to label herself as a victim; opting instead for the title of victor: “If I claim to be a victim, I’m giving power to that identity. So, I transformed my narrative.” She turned her focus towards helping others, stating, “Engaging with women in countries like Cambodia and Nepal, where many are trapped in sex trafficking, served as a healing journey for me.” To further this mission, she founded the Freedom Project, where a portion of every sale goes to initiatives that “rescue, rehabilitate, and create entrepreneurial opportunities plus employment for those affected by trafficking and abusive labor.”
Ferrin asserts that there is an inherent strength in women that fosters a culture of giving back, noting how many beneficiaries of the Freedom Project have transformed their lives and in turn seek to uplift others. The initiative goes beyond merely providing jobs, as it also focuses on helping women rebuild connections with their families—often the same individuals who had previously exploited them. “By equipping families with vocational skills and education, they gain the ability to support themselves,” she explains.
Her fashion designs exemplify her commitment to empowering all women, offering flattering, stylish, and comfortable clothing that caters to various body types and life stages. Ferrin encourages women to embrace their current selves: “I tell them to walk into the store, find something they love, and wear it confidently as they are. Beauty exists now.”
What empowers Ferrin currently? She cites, “Leading a thriving business alongside a dedicated team of women who share our vision.” While she acknowledges the challenges of balancing motherhood and entrepreneurship as an ongoing “work in progress,” she expresses her gratitude for the flexibility to shape her own schedule. Though she faces common struggles, it’s clear she is making a significant impact in the world.
For more details on Abi Ferrin’s designs, the Freedom Project, or her involvement with Mary Kay Inc.’s “Don’t Look Away” campaign against domestic abuse, visit www.abiferrin.com/pages/about-us.
