Visionary dream-maker Oday Shakar is well known for his exquisitely-cut dresses and dazzling creations. The self-assured prolific designer always knew he would make a living designing dresses. At the tender age of seven, he started drawing sketches of women and horses, which revealed an exceptional talent. He went on to prove his creative spirit by taking extension fashion classes at the University of California – Irvine, by the age of 13.
Shakar chased his dreams of fashion after studying at the Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising in Los Angeles. He bought his ambition to fruition when he launched his first line in 2008. That same year, Oday was diagnosed with stage 4 thyroid cancer. He didn’t allow the disease to quell his aspirations of becoming an accomplished designer.
While receiving treatment, the patriotic designer continued to sketch gowns for his clients. Shakar is an authentic designer who is as faithful to his clients as he is to his roots. The Southern Californian Iraqi gets his source of inspiration from the best of both worlds. He has a special bond with Iraq and we saw this first hand after realizing his face beam with excitement when asked about his hometown, Baghdad. Wassila Ayoub caught up with the humble designer just before showcasing his Fall 2017 Collection in New York City. He talks about his philosophy of fashion and how he instantly became a favorite in today’s luxury fashion industry.
Tell us about the Oday Shakar 2017 collection.
The collection is inspired by overcoming darkness. I feel like a lot of the women in my life and myself have gone through different things and trials where we’ve had to overcome some dark times. So, I felt like grabbing from that and being inspired by the beauty that you can find from within dark times and overcoming them by building something very powerful and strong out of it was the inspiration behind this collection.
How does Iraq inspire your work?
It’s just part of my DNA. Growing up being Iraqi and American is just part of who I am so it’s kind of the DNA of the brand.
What is the must have from this collection?
I would say everything! All of it! Some of the things I am most excited about is the knits I am introducing and the furs.
Wassila Ayoub talks to Oday Shakar moments before his Fall 2017 show in New York City.
What has been the brand’s biggest accomplishment to date?
Launching in New York City as a New York brand and having our New York studio office open this year.
What would you consider to have been the most challenging aspect of your life’s work thus far?
Never giving up even when the strongest odds were against me.
Lately, your designs are being worn by many A-listers. Who are some of the celebrities? How does this change the way your label is received?
Sandra Bullok, Sophia Vergara and Dianna Agron are some and I think It allows the brand to be more visible.
What’s next on the road map for Oday Shakar?
Launching overseas and doing four collections a year.
Do you have anything to say to the fashion forward women who comprise our readership?
Please take a look at my work and I look forward to showing you what I have this year.
