xOmar Goes Global

Just shy of one month ago I started a journey on which I didn't actively realise I was embarking.  It may have been because if I'd known how big my task would be I would have done so many things differently. I would have packed more, planned more, fretted more and so forth. Luckily, I thought I was just coming to Paris Fashion Week and Europe in general for about 10 days so I didn't overpack or worry too much or plan too far out.  But, since arriving and deciding to stay and *really* thinking about what I want out of life for myself and my brand I've come up with a master plan.  Globalization, especially as it applies to fashion, has choked out small business and most of the mid-priced labels that existed.  Nowadays you have primarily 3 options: Option 1 Low End fast Fashion like Target, H&M, Zara and Joe Fresh. Option 2 Luxury High-End like Gucci, Prada and Chanel.  Option 3 Collaborations between Low End corporations & High End corporations like Karl Lagerfel for H&M or the Neiman Marcus Holiday Collection at Target.  Almost all of this stuff is made in sweatshop conditions that make it impossible for workers around the world or designers in the USA to make a decent living.  So, I plan to do something about it. In the fight against Globalization I'm going to take a "if you can't beat 'em, join 'em" approach.  I'm changing my business format to a global strategy.  My plan is to travel the world creating city and region-specific capsule collections.  All of the clothing and resources used for the collection will be sourced and paid for in that region- only supporting individuals, small-businesses & charitable organizations- thereby supporting their local economy and people in need.  Everything will be re-made, finished, cleaned and labeled in that region.  Everything I purchased will stay in that region and if it wasn't immediately used it will go to a thrift store that raises money for a good cause.  This will allow me to pack lightly, see the world, and offer the globe a fashion-forward clothing brand that has a low enviromental impact because it's been made of pre-existing, locally sourced materials.  It will give people a chance to shop in their local small businesses and find something amazing and truly one-of-a-kind.  It will allow me to sleep well at night knowing that I'm not "part of the problem" and it will give you that warm fuzzy feeling knowing that you helped a young, gifted and Black artist start to realize not only his goals but his real potential.  Now, this won't be cheap to start.  I'll need access to education, lawyers, sewing machines,  sergers/overlocks, transportation, visas, laundering services, guides and a plethora of other resources and materials.  So this is where you come in!  I will be honored by any donation that you can make.  And I really mean *any* whether it's $1, $1,000, sound adivce on an unfamiliar region, business expertise, a phone call to a girlfriend where I may be able to stay, or sharing my link, good vibes and a few words of encouragement; I'm here for all of it!  My finacial goal is $10,000, of which I have over a 25% headstart, so now that you know the plan, let's get started!  If you have questions or suggestions please contact me and I look forward to hearing from all of you!!

Omar X