Who Is Ogemdi Obiwuru?
Updated: Aug 10, 2022
Paris
August 08, 2022
After the Parisian menswear Fashion Week, Méduse International sat down exclusively with Ogemdi Obiwuru to discuss the future of fashion, his brand, and what being a fashion designer is in this era.
Can you Introduce yourself?
My name is Ogemdi Obiwuru, I’m a 26-year-old fashion designer from Los Angeles, CA. I am the owner and founder of OSSO.
Where do you get your inspiration from?
That is a loaded question because for me it’s endless. I get most inspiration from life experiences, the people, and places that have influenced me throughout my life. My Nigerian heritage and my American nationality shaped my worldview at an early age. Also, a lot of my inspiration comes from traveling, books, art, music, fashion photography, and historic brands…you see what I mean when I say endless.
How do you maintain your inspiration?
I do that by quite simply staying in touch with myself. There’s nobody more inspiring than yourself, right?? Looking inward more than outwards. Take this interview, for example, being done in Paris during fashion week. I just shot my first fashion film yesterday here. Coming from LA, this is exactly what keeps the energy flowing.
Why did you choose to build your career in fashion industry?
Not to be cliché, but it truly feels like a calling. Growing up I wanted to be an athlete, fashion came out of nowhere and completely took over my life. It’s what I’m most passionate about, I love creating beautiful clothes, imagery, storytelling. Being able to design my magnum opus, presenting my innermost thoughts to the world through fabric and silhouette. There’s nothing else I want to do more than this.
Which designer impacted/or inspired you the most?
There are so many amazing designers that have impacted me such as Tom Ford, Kim Jones, Ralph Lauren. But none more than the late great Virgil Abloh. My first “expensive” or luxury item was one of his early t-shirts for Off-White. That shirt made me feel powerful, it was the moment I went fully obsessive into all things fashion. Virgil knocked down so many doors so the next generation wouldn’t have to. He made me believe I could actually do this. His work ethic and his drive is something that I always try to emulate. He was someone who ascended to the height of heights while remaining humble and so giving. His impact will forever be felt in this industry and on my career.
What was the biggest challenge you faced in the process of developing your brand?
Since I started OSSO alone, I’d have to say not having a team, yeah. Most definitely. Being a one-man show was definitely not easy, because you need multiple people who are dedicated to seeing your vision through. The business and operational side of fashion is often overlooked, but it’s the most important facet that keeps all the brands we love, thriving. I have a small team now; challenges are a part of every young brand, but the collective spirit pushes through all of that.
How do you want to impact the fashion industry and how do you want people to remember your brand?
I want to be one of the greats, presenting memorable collections and for my name to be amongst those who are leading my era. Giving hope to those from similar beginnings and being a beacon for the youth. As far as OSSO being remembered, hopefully nobody will have to remember OSSO because it will be everlasting.
As a fashion designer, how do you see the fashion industry in 10 years. Do you think there will be a huge upheaval?
The fashion industry is only going to get bigger and bigger. More people are being reached across the world than ever before. That upheaval from the “old establishment” has already begun and it’ll continue progressing forward, ever evolving in the right direction.
Do you think that a NFT is the future of fashion?
Tyler, The Creator did this interview where he said, “I’m not an NFT I’m really outside”. I think they’re interesting don’t get me wrong, but it’ll never replace something physical. Humans we crave connection, and fashion is how you express who you are to the world. I don’t think seeing a Balenciaga jacket on some digital character gives you anything special. You need to see the real thing, how it fits on the human body, touch and interact with the garment.
Where do you see yourself in 10 years?
Time will tell, but it’s going to be an OSSO world. Aggressive patience is something I practice daily; I know this is a long game. But, by that time the goal is have one of the most successful brands in fashion. Also, at some point be named the Creative Director of an iconic luxury house.
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