Today we’d like to introduce you to Islam Mohamed.
Hi Islam, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers.
After being terminated from my job for standing up for my beliefs and values, I found myself at a crossroads. Rather than letting this setback define me, I decided to channel my passion into creating something of my own. That’s when I embarked on a journey to start my clothing brand from scratch, driven by the desire to reflect my values and make a positive impact.
With little experience in the fashion industry, and being a college graduate of Graphic Design major with an artistic and creative vision and background, I began by brainstorming ideas and sketching designs in the comfort of my own house. I dedicated countless hours to research, learning about fashion trends, sourcing materials, and studying the intricacies of garment production. It was a steep learning curve, but my determination kept me going.
I started with a few initial designs, carefully crafting each piece with attention to detail and incorporating my unique vision. To bring my creations to life, I connected with local artisans and manufacturers who shared my commitment to quality and ethical production practices. Collaborating closely with them, I ensured that every garment adhered to my values, using sustainable materials and fair-trade practices whenever possible.
As I began promoting my brand on social media and attending local events, I quickly noticed a growing interest from people who resonated with my values and appreciated the distinctiveness of my designs. Word of mouth spread, and the demand for my clothing steadily increased. I seized the opportunity to establish an online presence through a well-designed website, showcasing my collections and sharing the story behind each piece.
Eventually, my brand caught the attention of fashion shows and influential figures within the industry. The recognition was both humbling and exciting, as it affirmed that my hard work and dedication were paying off. I seized the opportunity to showcase my designs on runways, where they captured the attention of fashion enthusiasts and industry professionals alike.
Influencers and social media personalities also took notice of my brand, attracted by its authenticity and alignment with its values. They began featuring my designs in their posts, generating even more interest and reaching a broader audience. This exposure not only expanded my customer base but also solidified my brand’s reputation as a representation of individuality, sustainability, and conscious fashion choices.
As the momentum continued to build, I focused on expanding my brand’s reach by collaborating with like-minded organizations, participating in pop-up shops, and exploring partnerships with retailers that shared my vision. This allowed me to connect with even more people who appreciated the values behind my clothing and saw them as a reflection of their own beliefs.
Through unwavering dedication, perseverance, and an unyielding commitment to my values, I transformed a setback into an opportunity to create something meaningful. Today, my clothing brand has become a symbol of empowerment, inspiring others to embrace their uniqueness while making ethical fashion choices.
I am proud of what I have accomplished and grateful for the community that has rallied around my brand, turning it into a movement that promotes positive change in the fashion industry.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Building my clothing brand was not an easy journey. It was filled with numerous challenges and moments of uncertainty. I knew that success wouldn’t come overnight, but I was determined to turn my passion into a thriving business, regardless of the risks involved.
One of the biggest risks I took was investing all my savings and money into building my brand. I knew that without proper funding, it would be challenging to bring my vision to life. So, I made the difficult decision to allocate every available resource to the business, sacrificing short-term comfort for long-term growth.
As I poured my heart and soul into the brand, I found myself working tirelessly, often sacrificing sleep and personal time. Countless hours turned into days, and days into weeks, as I relentlessly pursued my dreams. It was a constant uphill battle, but the thought of creating something meaningful kept me going even during the toughest times.
Designing clothes and developing fashion ideas became an integral part of my daily routine. I would immerse myself in creative processes, sketching and experimenting with various styles, silhouettes, and color palettes. It was a continuous learning experience, pushing the boundaries of my creativity and refining my skills with every design.
To ensure the quality and ethical production of my garments, I embarked on journeys to other countries, seeking firsthand experience and knowledge from manufacturing and production experts. These trips allowed me to witness different manufacturing processes, learn about sustainable materials, and establish valuable connections with suppliers who shared my commitment to ethical practices.
However, the price of dedicating myself so wholeheartedly to my brand meant being away from my friends and family. The demands of building a business consumed much of my time and energy, leaving little room for socializing or even taking breaks. I missed important events, gatherings, and precious moments with loved ones as I worked tirelessly to bring my brand to life. I even went above and beyond by working a 17-18 hour daily shift, and 115-120 hours weekly shifts pushing myself to work the maximum hours I can to save and finance more money for my business.
Throughout this arduous journey, doubts and setbacks often crept in. There were moments when it felt like success was out of reach, and I questioned whether my sacrifices were worth it. But in those moments of doubt, I reminded myself of the passion that ignited this journey and the impact I aimed to make through my brand.
Despite the struggles, the risks, and the sacrifices, I persisted. Every hurdle became an opportunity for growth, and every setback a lesson to learn from. I adapted, evolved, and refined my strategies, always pushing forward, fueled by the belief in my vision and the unwavering determination to succeed.
And as I look back on that journey, I realize that those challenging times shaped me into a resilient and tenacious individual. They taught me the value of perseverance and the rewards that come from chasing one’s dreams. Today, I stand proud, knowing that all the struggles and sacrifices were not in vain. My clothing brand stands as a testament to my courage, dedication, and unwavering pursuit of creating something truly remarkable.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I am a passionate graphic designer who graduated from the renowned Art Institute of New York, equipped with a strong foundation in visual communication and artistic expression. Drawing inspiration from the world around me, I have always used my creative skills to delve into thought-provoking and controversial topics, particularly in the realm of politics and religion.
Driven by a desire to deepen my understanding of fashion and expand my creative horizons, I embarked on a journey to enhance my skills through fashion design courses at Parsons. This additional education allowed me to merge my graphic design expertise with the world of fashion, enabling me to communicate powerful messages through clothing and wearable art.
My unique approach to design and my ability to address political issues through thought-provoking artwork quickly gained attention. I became known for my controversial political artwork, which challenged societal norms and sparked conversations about pressing issues. Through my designs, I aimed to provoke critical thinking, challenge perspectives, and encourage dialogue on topics often considered taboo or sensitive.
I utilized symbolism, vivid imagery, and bold typography to communicate my messages, aiming to evoke emotions and provoke a response from viewers. My artwork often explored themes such as social justice, human rights, inequality, and the intersectionality of identity. By pushing the boundaries of artistic expression, I strived to create a platform for discourse and awareness within the fashion industry and beyond.
The impact of my controversial political artwork extended beyond gallery walls and digital platforms. It caught the attention of individuals who resonated with the messages conveyed in my designs and sought to support a brand that stood for social change and activism. This recognition led to collaborations with like-minded organizations, exhibitions in renowned art galleries, and opportunities to showcase my designs on influential platforms.
With my unique background as a graphic designer turned fashion activist, I found myself at the forefront of a movement that challenged the status quo. I aimed to redefine the role of fashion by transforming it into a powerful tool for social commentary and change. Through my work, I hoped to inspire others to question the world around them and spark conversations that could lead to a more inclusive and equitable society.
As my reputation grew, I remained committed to using my artistic platform responsibly and ethically. I continuously educated myself on the issues I addressed, collaborated with diverse voices, and sought to amplify marginalized perspectives through my designs. By blending my graphic design skills, fashion expertise, and passion for social justice, I aimed to leave a lasting impact on the industry and contribute to a more socially conscious future. I am also a writer and am in the process of publishing two new books sometime soon
Do you have recommendations for books, apps, blogs, etc?
My inspiration knows no boundaries, as I draw from a diverse range of figures, books, artists, and influencers, many of whom are considered controversial. I believe that exposure to different perspectives fuels creativity and expands my understanding of the world.
When it comes to books, I find inspiration in a variety of works that challenge conventional thinking. Of course, the Qur’an holds a special place for me as a source of spiritual guidance. Additionally, autobiographies such as Malcolm X’s and Mahmoud Abdul-Rauf’s offer profound insights into the struggles for justice and personal growth. Life is Raw: The Story of a Reformed Outlaw, which is a biographical memoir of Napoleon of 2 Pac’s Outlawz, By Sulaiman Jenkins. Thought-provoking titles like George Orwell’s “1984,” Ralph Epperson’s “The New World Order,” and Michael H. Hart’s “The 100 Most Influential Persons in History” push me to question power structures and societal norms. Works by Noam Chomsky, Ilan Pappe, Mark Curtis, and others shed light on political and social issues, encouraging critical analysis and understanding.
In terms of individuals who inspire me, the list is extensive. Drawing from diverse fields, these figures challenge established narratives and make a significant impact. People like Malcolm X, Muhammad Ali, Mahmoud Abdulrauf, Jordan Peterson, Andrew and Tristan Tate, Sartorial Shooter, Loon (Amir) from Bad Boy Records, Napoleon (Mutah Beale) from 2 Pac’s Outlaws, Noam Chomsky, Abby Martin, Ilan Pappe, Dr. Leonard Sax, Tony Cartalucci, Norman Finkelstein, Ibn Taymiyyah, Dostoevsky, Immortal Technique, and others each bring a unique perspective that influences my work and fuels my drive for social change.
Artists, too, play a crucial role in shaping my creative vision. Banksy’s thought-provoking street art challenges societal norms and fosters conversations. Abby Martin, through her visual storytelling, addresses political and social issues. Shepard Fairey’s iconic and politically charged works make a powerful statement, while Fernando Botero’s distinct style conveys social commentary through exaggerated forms. These artists and others inspire me to explore new ways of communicating my ideas visually.
Despite the controversies that surround some of these figures, books, and artists, I find value in their contributions to critical thinking, social justice, and personal growth. By embracing diverse sources of inspiration, I strive to create meaningful and impactful work that challenges the status quo and encourages others to question and reflect upon the world around them.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.athariwear.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/islamartsnyc
Image Credits
@Qadr.Studio, @Islamartsnyc, @Athariwear, and @naderdrwish
