She’s a global dance and style icon, but Parris Goebel is also an example of how hard work and perseverance can get you to the top.
Based in Los Angeles, the 27-year-old Aucklander has had a big year: choreographing music videos for the likes of Kanye West and Ciara (whose ‘Level Up’ dance challenge went viral); publishing her autobiography Young Queen; and helping Rihanna put together the much-publicised New York Fashion Week show for her Savage x Fenty lingerie brand.
To cap off a busy 2018, she has just released a limited edition watch for Casio Baby-G, inspired by her favourite colour pink and with the slogan “Time to be a BOSS”, available for purchase from The Palace website (and various other retailers) just in…er, time for Christmas.
Ahead of the launch of her new Baby-G watch collab, we caught up with Parris to get her best advice on how to make it to the top of your industry:
Miss FQ: If you had to describe ‘your story so far’ in a nutshell, how would you do it?
Parris Goebel: The underdog.
How would you describe your strengths?
I’m proud to be a strong, confident woman that isn’t afraid to be herself and chase her dreams. I am someone who knows what she wants and will work hard to make it happen.
How do you define success?
Success is a feeling only you can define. It is different for all of us, but for me it is a feeling of overflowing pride and joy that you have given to yourself. It isn’t defined by money or power, it is reflected in the way you feel.
What are some challenges you’ve faced or had to overcome?
Haters, jealousy and people not believing in me.
View this post on Instagram
RIHEARSAL$ with my beauties. An experience I’ll never forget @savagexfenty @badgalriri 💕 #UNITY
What motivates you?
My passion motives me. If I love something then I will do it. I love art, I love dance, I love music, I love film, I love it all! If it gets my heart pumping then I don’t need to be motivated. I’m lucky my job is what I dreamed of.
What are your top three tips for landing a job in your industry?
Confidence always wins. Always make a good first impression. You are your brand.
When did you last act fearlessly?
Every day. It is a part of my character and is something I believe has got me to where I am today.
Do you have favourite quote or mantra to live by?
“Passion never sleeps.”
How important is female empowerment to you and why?
It is so important. Especially in this day and age. It’s essential for women to unite and support one another. We are making the earth shake and we are really changing the game. Together we are stronger.
You’re always juggling so many projects – how do you stay organised and on top of things?
I have a manager and an assistant. I’m a creative so I try leave the business side to my management so I can stay creative and free. But I am still working on being on time lol.
You’ve recently been working on a collaboration with Baby-G – what made you get involved with the brand?
I’ve loved Baby-G watches since I was a little girl and remember being so excited when my dad finally got me one. They are classic, timeless and great quality watches. They always have the best colourways and I thought it would be exciting to see what we could come up with.
Can you tell us a bit about the design process and final outcome?
It’s so me! My favourite colour is pink and the meaning behind the design is really inspiring and uplifting. The whole message behind the watch and the packaging is: “It’s time to be a BOSS”.
We’re sure your life has been a series of ‘pinch me’ moments, but what’s been your biggest ‘pinch me’ moment so far?
Probably my first big break – meeting and working with JLo.
Your career requires you to travel relentlessly, often only spending a few days in each place. Is there something you take with you on your travels to make you happy or remind you of home?
No, but I have the best group chat with my family that always makes me laugh and smile.
What’s the first thing you do when you return home to NZ? And more importantly, what’s the first thing you eat?
I go home and have a big nap. I love eating at Wagamamas and Kiss Kiss so I usually meet with friends and have a big feed there.
You’re quite the style icon (and we loved the fierce shoot you did recently with our sister title, Fashion Quarterly!) so if you had to put together an outfit to instantly lift your mood, what would that be?
I love colour and it immediately makes me feel good. I will prob choose a bright coloured item such as pink top and jeans and some sick sneakers, then I’m good to go.
Which song/s instantly brings a smile to your face right now?
Nicki Minaj – ‘Good Form’.
You have already achieved so much, but what’s next for you?
For me, I’ll be doing more film, TV and music next year. I’m ready to step out of my comfort zone and start bringing my own visions to life.
This article is brought to you in partnership with Baby-G. The new BABY-G x Parri$ analog-digital BA110 watch is $229 and available exclusively from The Palace online store, Loaded, Christies & Watch Station.
