Fashion Q&A with Fashion Designer of OUBLIER
1. What was your inspiration for OUBLIER?
OUBLIER (/u.bli.je/) French for “to forget”, was created for big guys around the world who have been forgotten by fashion.
2. Who is the OUBLIER guy and what does that encompass?
The fashion-conscious, streetwear savvy big man standing 5’8 - 7’+ tall, weighing between 250 - 400+ pounds, and wearing a waist size 40-60.
3. Can you define fashion in your own terms?
Fashion is a lifestyle, regarding apparel, fashion at its best is self-expression. It tells people who you are without you ever saying a word.
4. Why is plus-size or big and tall fashion for men overlooked?
It's a niche market and it's very difficult to design for these abnormal body types that are small in population compared to standard menswear S-XXL
5. How would you describe the style of OUBLIER?
Contemporary streetwear
6. Why OUBLIER? Why have a brand like this?
Contemporary streetwear is a rapidly growing sector in men's fashion it's what I identify with.
7. What is the designing process? What makes you want to create the clothing?
Honestly, I usually look for core items I want and can't find elsewhere.
8. How often are you releasing clothing? Tell us about your successes as a designer but also the struggles you have faced when creating the brand.
We try and stay on schedule with seasons but it's challenging to restock items and save money to make your next groups. Currently, we are behind with our Fashion Week (FW16) capsule due to prepping for our arrival to wholesale.
9. Tell us about your latest capsule launch (Dimension) and what was the inspiration behind that? In addition, what is Le' Grand Garcon?
With Dimensions, we wanted to play with intricate seams and explore french terry textures. Le Grand Garcon is a collaboration we did with The Cool The Casual for big & tall vintage/inspired clothing. I thought it would be cool to introduce big guys to a different contemporary aesthetic.
10. I noticed on your site that you don't use the term "plus-size" but "big and tall" why is that? Is it intentional?
Yes, it is intentional I never identified myself as "plus sized.” To me, it has a feminine connotation. The fashion industry has always addressed big guys as big & tall and big women as plus size. Even though, yes, we as a whole quote-unquote, make up the plus size sector.
11. What designers are getting it right when it comes to plus-size fashion for men and women?
Ralph Lauren is a staple. There is not much in the contemporary space to my knowledge. I honestly only wear OUBLIER occasionally missing in vintage or a few random designers but none who make quote-unquote plus sizes. They don't go passed a 2X.
12. What trends are hot for any man right now?
Dad Trousers, Rose color whatever, Parkas, Patches & Embroidery, cropped pants, and graphic tees are surprisingly coming back strong
13. What is your favorite fall and winter accessories?
A good beanie
14. What are your thoughts on having plus-size men and women in fashion?
IT'S A MUST #BIGGUYSMATTER