FOR THE FIFTH INSTALLMENT OF BULLY PROFILES WE FEATURE FASHION DESIGNER OLOAPITREPS.
Who are you and where are you from?
I’m an Italian fashion designer and my brand OLOAPITREPS was founded in London, where I lived for 15 years. I have recently decided to relocate to Italy to follow the production more closely.
What brought you to the Bully world?
It was a random encounter that I found absolutely magnetic. I have always attracted (and have been attracted to!) worlds and artistic realities that, once experienced, I usually end up being fond of. It all happens in a natural and organic way, just like it did with Bully World. I truly admire your mission and effort.
Who is someone you admire, and why?
Since my childhood, I’ve never had any idols or heroes. I don’t worship celebrities. I do love and admire people who create new things, people who invent new worlds and express themselves creatively. No matter who they are and what their job is, these people are usually very true to themselves and to others – something that I greatly appreciate. I’m fascinated by either simple or very complex individuals who are able to show their own personality without any constraints.
What was the inspiration behind the collection shown in the “Street Watch” editorial in ISSUE ONE?
In the “Street Watch” editorial, I showed the same clothes styled on different types of people, giving them the freedom to express themselves without any set rules. The result was amazing! That collection was my way to take a break from fashion’s calendar patterns. Just before the pandemic hit, I felt the need to move away from the seasonal, gender and size restrictions dictated by the industry. My biggest inspiration is my feelings and it was the case for this collection: I wanted to create anti-seasonal garments that feel timeless, something that anyone can wear throughout the year - now and for many years to come.
Now that the world is reopening strict lockdowns are lifting worldwide, what do you see next for the brand? Are there any special in-person presentations etc. on the way?
Yes, I’m very excited for the new collection and thrilled to finally be able to collaborate with people and friends in real life, not just from behind a screen. I feel that going back to face-to-face interactions is bringing a wind pollination of fresh ideas and a blooming of change all around. Personally, I have always chosen to work with many local artisans near my hometown, thus avoiding shipping and the back and forth of useless emails: I just go and meet them daily, to discuss my designs and closely follow the production step by step. Creatively, I couldn’t ask for anything better and this way of working is also sustainable and very ecological at the same time. A “Bunch” of new garments coming soon, stay tuned!
