Getting to Know: Chinwe Odoemena Of “Outlyer Effect”
We were always taught that being an outlier was a bad thing, and that standing outside of the lines meant you were inadequate in some way. What about the individual who didn’t want to stay in the lines? Could it be that we’ve had the definition of individuality wrong all these years? There is power to be found in embracing what makes you authentically you. Within that embracing, you will find your tribe or outlyer in this case. Chinwe Odoemena, CEO of the Slow Fashion Fashion Brand “Outlyer Effect'' is methodically, and compassionately showing us all that it’s okay to stand out. With designs that are uniquely made for the ones that wear them, Chinwe reminds us all that individuality is our birthright. Choosing to be your authentic self is the best gift you can give to yourself, and what better way to celebrate that gift than through garments from such a beautiful brand? I was given the honor of sitting down in a wondrous conversation with the incredible Chinwe, and it was nothing short of inspiring.
Who are you?
My name is Chinwe Odoemena, and I am an eighteen-year-old Nigerian American Fashion Designer, Fashion Stylist & College Student from New Jersey.
Why did you choose fashion design as a career?
I initially saw fashion design as a hobby, but everything shifted when I had my first pop-up shop/fashion show. It became clear to me that I can turn fashion design into a career. At the time I was seventeen years old and noticed everyone’s reactions to the designs and was elated. The art of designing clothing for people was so cool to me.
What according to you is your favorite part of being a fashion designer?
My favorite part is being able to say “I made that”! I love being able to evoke conversation through clothing. It allows me to connect with others and build more clientele.
The designs you’ve created are nothing short of brilliant, but who and which things were your inspiration while creating such designs?
In the beginning, I approached the creation process through creating what I didn’t see. Once I started making my tapestry sweaters, hoodies, and pants things shifted. For my recent collection, I knew I needed brand recognition. I got inspired by my name Outlyer, because I needed to create an outlier. I had to make something that I’ve never seen before. With the “Outlyer Sweaters”, I put my brand name on them, and I designed the women on them. I reconstructed the women’s faces the way I wanted them to look. For the “Chest Pocket Hoodies”, I drew inspiration from other people. On apps like Tiktok, I see the same thing over and over again, and I knew I had to make something different. As it pertains to my Patchwork Denim Designs, I drew inspiration from my environment and the things around me. I follow other designers like Tianna Osbourne and Madeline Kraemer.
Define fashion.
I define fashion as a way for people to express themselves.
What do you want readers to know about you apart from design?
There’s a big misconception about my age, I am only eighteen years old. I started my brand “Outlyer Effect” at sixteen years old. I’m a human being who makes mistakes, I am not a perfect person. I watch Anime, I’m an avid reader, and ambivert. I love going to the gym especially early in the morning. I love listening to podcasts, I’m a “crime junkie”, I love Law & Order, and I love drinking coffee.
What’s next for you?
I will be one of the Fashion Designers for the Diamonté George Town University Fashion Show in April. I will be doing another fashion show with a few friends of mine. I will also be a vending for “Lost On The Racks” pop-up shop. I plan on turning “Outlyer Effect” into a corporation that creates new jobs and opportunities for people.
Any up and coming designers we should be privy to?
Cole Henry, Blu Boy, Justin P. Etienne
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