Artist Feature – Cody Verona of Forgotten Saints
We recently sat down with one of our new favorite designers Cody Verona founder of Forgotten Saints. Influenced by rock n roll roots Cody gives us a fresh perspective and some killer one-of-a-kind items that we now offer in-store. Don't miss this feature!!!
Tell us a little bit about your vision and what you offer:
I have been designing for music, film and television for the last 30 years. When the entertainment industry shut down in March, 2020 my designing came to a halt. I had a ton of remnants, vintage cloth, and odds and ends in my studio so I just started cutting, sewing, and creating the new pieces that I am currently offering.
I have always had a love of vintage styles and cuts so I started to cut and sew "mash-up" designs that wouldn’t necessarily be partnered with the fabrics that I am using. It has been a blast to take fabrics that have been sitting in remnant tubs for years and making them come to life.
Sometimes I have to reign in my ideas as I love a wide range of styles, from workwear of the ‘40s to the Mod Style of Carnaby Street in the 70’s.
What is the most important thing you want others to know about you and your brand?
Forgotten Saints is about fun, confidence, and embracing your own independent style. Everything that I make is a one-of-a-kind piece, I don’t ever design for the masses. I have always surrounded myself with free thinkers and that is who I design for.
What inspires you the most when creating?
Fabrics. I know it sounds crazy but I can see a piece of fabric and it “tells” me what it should be.
Where are Forgotten Saints headed next?
I don’t ever make a game plan. I fly by the seat of my pants. Is that a smart business strategy? No. But I love the zig and zag of new adventures, partnerships, and friendships and that thinking has worked for me so far.
Name one song or band that embodies your brand:
Oh , there are so many! If I had to pick one it would be Changes by David Bowie.
I once read that when asked what the lyrics were about Bowie answered “It's about the compulsive nature of artistic reinvention. It's about reflection, defying your critics and stepping out on your own.”
That has always stuck with me.
When I designed my first line in 1994 I loaded it up in my beat-up VW Bug and drove from San Diego to San Francisco showing the line. No one understood the designs and I didn’t make one sale! I came home, licked my wounds and opened up my first shop in 1995. I have been going strong ever since and have been given incredible opportunities to work with some of the best people and artists by following my own heart and continuing to grow and evolve as a human and artist.
Is there anything else you want to add?
Do you.
Shop our Forgotten Saints collection in-store or here and be sure to give them a follow @allforgottensaintsla.
