They have all impacted the label. I have lived in DMV, New York, and now California, and each has contributed to my inspiration and sense of community. The pieces we make evolve with these places in mind.

DC isn’t considered in the world of fashion and I believe the reasoning is that we don't have a major industry for it. Despite that, we are a big part of fashion. When it comes to style and taste we are an area that births trends and influences other subcultures in surrounding areas. I do see growth for the area when it comes to fashion because of people like Anifa and her label Hanifa, really setting the standard for women in DC, and people like myself increasing the notoriety for men in DC. In the coming years, I do feel we will see more of an emphasis from the DC area.

I identify as a black man first, that is what I am before any words are exchanged. Then, as a first-generation Nigerian-American from the DMV. Then after all of that a designer.

Traditionally no, however, the landscape is changing due to a few reasons, one being Virgil’s realm in part, he was a catalyst in fashion. We have started to see others of color gaining prominent positions at labels we were once just consumers of. As a kid from Jamaica Queens, Tremaine is now leading the conversation of New York's most renowned street brand ever. This is what we must do to move the needle forward. We are surely seeing a change.

I’m a product of my environment, so everything I feel is in parallel with where I’m from. It’s an expression of the journey, it’s a piece of the DNA that is instilled in me from being a Nigerian-American from DC. I can see the essence of my upbringing in my product, which causes a sense of validation in perspective for me and my work.

òL is a multifaceted label. The majority of our works are cut and sew pieces. The Chocolate City tees came after a lot of our more formalized pieces. People buy into the story with this item, a unique calling card for our customers who cannot reach our other items. We look to continue to bridge the gap wherever we can and whenever we have a chance to.

òL stands alone, we’re a brand that is easily adaptable and we fit into the grand scheme of a wardrobe. I don't focus on our positioning. I think positioning is becoming a lost concept seeing all these major houses chase a more urban look and feel. In the grand scheme of things, we are unique. We’re not a company backed by a major house that comes from generational wealth, however, we can play along and be placed in similar conversations. We are an independent brand that paves its way!

I would reassure my 20 year-old self that you know what you’re doing and it all makes sense in the long run, trust your gut.

More pieces to shake up the fashion industry and start bigger conversations!