Wale Oyejide: The musician, attorney and fashion designer
Musician, attorney, designer. These are worlds apart. How did you manage the switch?The switch has always been organic, and in some cases, one of necessity. Most of us are talented in different ways. For me, a lack of inspiration is usually a good indicator that I should move on to something new. What inspires you […]
Musician, attorney, designer. These are worlds apart. How did you manage the switch?
The switch has always been organic, and in some cases, one of necessity. Most of us are talented in different ways. For me, a lack of inspiration is usually a good indicator that I should move on to something new.
What inspires you in terms of your creativity?
Most of my close friends are creative in some medium or the other. We inspire each other to push boundaries. For the most part, I make an effort to create products that I would want to purchase as a consumer. As the saying goes, “I’m not only the president, I’m a client.”
You released the collection ‘The Untold Renaissance’. What is the idea behind?
It is a multi-layered concept. On the surface, it explores the absence of Africans in European art from the Renaissance and Medieval era. Further, it is a commentary on the immigrant experience in the West. I’d hoped to convey the idea that African identity can gracefully be intertwined with Western society.
How did your first breakthrough happen?
I don’t necessarily think I’ve had a breakthrough. For me, it has been an incremental and cumulative process. One thing I’ve learned is that no one will open doors for you. You have to create your own opportunities.
What projects are you working on at the moment?
We’re currently developing the Fall/Winter 2014 season for Ikiré Jones.
What makes your brand stand out?
I think the differences are quite clear on the surface. Beyond our obvious use of wax prints, there is a cultural and storytelling element that is wholly unique. Ikiré Jones is a brand inspired by my African upbringing, but it does not rely on that upbringing like a crutch. More than anything, the brand is a vehicle for cultural discovery.
With the mixtures and blends you have, how would you describe your style?
I like to think of our work as a marriage between African aesthetics and tailoring from Naples, Italy. It’s bold, but elegant. Aggressive but not obvious.
Could you tell us about recognitions/awards you have received due to your work?
I was named one of the 5-best dressed men in the United States of America by ‘Esquire Magazine’ in 2010. At that point, it became more apparent that I had talent and potential for a career in the menswear industry.
Do you target a certain audience with your brand?
Absolutely not! The brand is for whoever appreciates it. I learned a long time ago that you can’t dictate who appreciates your art, or how they interpret it.
Do you plan on designing for women at some point?
We’re interested in dabbling in women’s wear, but it isn’t our main focus at the moment. I’m a strong proponent of learning to do one thing really well, before trying to expand.
What about accessories?
We already make accessories. We have a fairly extensive collection of scarves and pocket squares. To us, our accessories are just as integral to the identity of the brand as our suiting is.
How well has your collection been received as an international brand?
It has been well-received. There is a large swath of people who are excited about the idea of seeing an African-inspired menswear brand, which is actually designed by an African. What we do isn’t a gimmick, or trend that will be gone tomorrow. It is part of our heritage.
Where is your current base?
At the moment, we were out of Philadelphia and New York City in the United States. We’re very accessible online via our site ikirejones site and twitter handle or on other social media outlets like instagram and Facebook.
You incorporate Nigerian/African elements in a lot of your works. Why is that?
I look at most of what I do as artistic self-expression. Therefore, it makes sense that I pour parts of my heritage into my work. It would be the same if I was raised in Japan or the Middle East.
Although there are a lot of Nigerian fashion designers clothing superstars, they are not featured on international fashion fairs. What’s your take on this?
I can’t really speak on why Nigerian designers may not be recognized at international fairs. It would be presumptuous to speculate without having all the information in front of me. My only concern is to produce the most authentic work that I can, and let whoever appreciates it do so on their own terms.
Being described as one of American’s best dressed … what was this mean to you?
It’s nice to be recognized for the way I present myself on the exterior, but it ultimately doesn’t mean anything. Clothes are just clothes. It’s my hope that I’m recognized and remembered for the message in my work, not just the bold surface.
Your jackets have kente linings which when overturned give a whole new dimension to the outfit. How did you come about this and why?
With some of the earlier pieces, we sought to present an appearance that had cultural significance, but would not be too intimidating. It works for people who want to carry a bit of Africa with them, but still want to blend in.
Do you have any unique item that represents your brand?
All of our accessories are wholly unique because they are works of art, that tell individual narratives. Story-telling is important to us, so we make sure every piece we produce has layered meaning.