SA: Introduce yourself and what you do at Retrowearz
My name is Lawrence Onwuama, and I am the brain behind Retrowearz. I am currently the creative director of the brand.
SA: Can you tell us a little bit about Retrowearz and the inspiration behind the brand?
Well, Retrowearz is an online clothing brand that has been in existence for five years now, aiming to carve a name for itself on the fashion map. I would say my love for fashion and vintage was essentially the reason behind the birth of the brand.
SA: How did the idea of combining retro styles with luxury come about?
My design philosophy is all about juxtaposition and contrast, and combining retro styles with luxury seems like the perfect way to create something fresh and exciting that challenges people’s expectations here in Nigeria.
SA: How has Retrowearz evolved since its inception, and what major changes have you implemented over time?
Hmm, Retrowearz has grown from a small thrift store to an established player in the luxury market. We’ve introduced new collections, collaborated with designers, influencers, and celebrities, and enhanced our customer experience through personalized services and exclusive offers.
SA: How important is storytelling in your brand, and how do you weave narratives into your collections?
Storytelling is essential to our brand DNA. We draw inspiration from history, art, culture, and society to create rich narratives that infuse our designs with depth and meaning. Our collections are like chapters in a book, each one building on the last to create a cohesive brand narrative.
SA: Can you tell us more about the inspiration behind the Damask Series? What led you to curate this collection?
I would say the Damask Series was curated out of my curiosity. About a year ago, I went fabric sourcing, stumbled upon the fabric, and loved its texture and uniqueness. I decided that I wanted to create a series to set a trend with this fabric, and that’s what my team and I did.
SA: Damask fabrics have a rich history. Could you share with our readers what exactly Damask fabric is and why it’s so special?
Damask fabric was first created in Damascus, which is where the fabric got its name. To me, what makes damask fabric special is its luxurious texture and intricate patterns and designs that evoke a sense of nostalgia, much like retro style’s love for reviving vintage designs and patterns, transporting us back to the past.
SA: We love the idea of retro style with a touch of exclusivity and elegance. How did you strike that balance in the Damask Series?
Thank you very much. To achieve this, we balanced vintage inspiration with luxurious materials and silhouettes. We used a select number of damask fabrics and paired them with intricate details and modern tailoring to create a sophisticated, high-end look.
SA: Let’s dive into the details! What materials are used in creating these exquisite Damask pieces? Are there any unique twists?
Our design team is obsessed with quality and authenticity. We use only the finest materials, sourced from the best suppliers. Then, we add our own unique spin with precision craftsmanship.
SA: Intricate designs are a hallmark of Damask fabrics. How do you ensure that each pattern stands out while maintaining the brand’s identity?
Our secret lies in our attention to detail and commitment to quality. We use only the finest materials and techniques to bring our designs to life, ensuring each pattern is a true masterpiece that reflects our brand’s values.
SA: Tell us about the craftsmanship involved. Are these pieces handwoven or machine-made? Any interesting techniques you’d like to share?
They are machine-made.
SA: Damascus—the birthplace of Damask fabric—holds so much history. How does Retrowearz pay homage to this heritage in the Damask Series?
Our brand is built on the principles of heritage and craftsmanship. The Damask Series celebrates the timeless beauty of Damask fabric, updated for the modern luxury consumer, while honouring Damascus’s significant contribution to fashion history.
SA: What occasions do you envision people wearing these Damask pieces? Any styling tips for our readers?
These pieces are perfect for anyone (male or female) who wants to make a fashion statement at a special occasion or even just a night out with friends. Don’t be afraid to mix and match with other bold prints or bright colours to create a look that’s truly eye-catching.
SA: The name ‘Damask’ conjures up images of elegance and sophistication. How does the Damask Series embody these qualities in its designs?
Our Damask Series is a masterclass in understated luxury. With subtle patterns, rich fabrics, and precise tailoring, we’ve created pieces that whisper elegance rather than shout it.
SA: Fashion enthusiasts love to know about the creative process. Could you walk us through how a Damask piece goes from concept to runway-ready?
First, should be the concept and designs.
Then, fabric selection and preparation.
Pattern making and prototyping.
Cutting and sewing.
Fittings and alterations.
And finally, runway preparation and show.
SA: Are there limited-edition Damask pieces within the collection? Any hidden gems that collectors should keep an eye out for?
Yes, we have limited-edition Damask pieces in the series, featuring unique designs and exclusive materials. People should look out for the ‘Damask Series,’ which includes machine-made pieces with intricate details and only a few pieces available worldwide.
SA: Collaborations often add excitement to fashion. Are there any unexpected collaborations or partnerships behind the Damask Series?
Most definitely, they are, with a couple of collaborations. We would like to keep it private for now, but with time, it will be out there for all eyes to see.
SA: Let’s talk about versatility. Can Damask pieces seamlessly transition from day to night? Any styling hacks for our readers?
The beauty of Damask lies in its adaptability. Try layering a Damask jacket over a dress for a chic evening look or pairing a Damask top with denim for a casual daytime vibe.
SA: The Damask Series sounds like a work of art. Are there any pieces that pay homage to specific eras or iconic fashion moments?
The Damask Series also pays tribute to the evolution of fashion. Each piece is a wearable work of art that honours a specific era or style.
SA: What’s next for Retrowearz? Any exciting plans or upcoming collections we should keep an eye out for?
There are a lot of surprises and interesting partnerships forthcoming… fingers crossed! 🤞🏿
Thank you, Lawrence!
Click here to shop Damask Series.
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