Fashion In Color EP 6: Breaking Fashion Norms: Unveiling anOnlyChild's Journey with Maxwell Osborne
Channel: Harlem’s Fashion Row
Date: 2023-12-15

Background:

Born and raised in New York City, Maxwell didn't dream of becoming a designer initially.

Attended art school during junior high and developed a love for design. 

His journey began when urban streetwear brands like Puff, Russell Simmons, and FUBU emerged.

Started working at Tommy Hilfiger retail, later interned at Sean John, and eventually became an associate designer.

Met Dao, a colleague at Sean John, and together they founded Public School in 2008.

Describes the inspiration behind Public School, blending high and low, and capturing New York's attitude.

Talks about the inclusivity in the fashion industry and the importance of sharing knowledge.

Public School's Impact: 

Acknowledges the impact of Public School in bringing diversity and freshness to the fashion industry.

Reflects on the significance of being a source of inspiration for others, especially people of color in the design field.

Discusses the challenges Public School faced initially and the turning point with the Vogue Fashion Fund.

Lessons from Sean John:

Emphasizes the importance of being a sponge and absorbing knowledge.

Recalls lessons from Puff, particularly the idea of pushing boundaries and being unapologetic.

Highlights Puff's influence on breaking stereotypes in urban wear and pushing for luxury. 

Transition to anOnlyChild:

Talks about the transition from Public School to anOnlyChild. 

Describes the origin of the name "anOnlyChild" and how it became a real brand during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Shares the process of creating the brand during the pandemic, playing with dead stock fabrics, and finding inspiration in family photos. 

Recounts the pivotal moment of organizing a private show for family and close friends during COVID-19 restrictions.

The Launch of Only Child:

Maxwell reflects on the unique launch of Only Child, emphasizing the importance of presence over exclusivity. 

The event turned into a lively barbecue, showcasing the brand's emphasis on community and family. 

Details of the launch event, including the location and the collaborative effort that brought it to life.

Evolution of Only Child:

Maxwell discusses the early challenges and imperfections of the brand, highlighting the transition from initial, "shittier samples" to a more refined approach. 

The significance of Julie Ragolia's styling in shaping Only Child's early identity. 

Insight into the gradual expansion of retailers carrying Only Child, including exclusive collaborations with Saks, Bergdorf, Kith, and Elise Walker.

Navigating the Fashion Industry:

Maxwell shares the brand's philosophy, emphasizing the playfulness of ideas and the use of deadstock fabrics to recreate the past into the future.

A journey through the seasons, exploring the storytelling aspect of collections, from "Welcome Home" to "Sundays."

Insights into the challenges and rewards of a two-decade-long career in the fashion industry.
Advice for aspiring designers, emphasizing the importance of experience, consistency, and finding one's voice. 

Connect with Maxwell Osborne and Only Child:
Website: anOnlyChild.com
Instagram: @MaxwellOsborne


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Harlem's Fashion Row is the epicenter of fashion for the multicultural audience committed to curating one designer, one story, and one collection at a time.