Angel Rodriguez Presents SS2014 OMI A Regal Fetish at Fashion Week Brooklyn

Written by Arantxa Lozada

The very humble designer Angel Rodriguez is making quite the entry into the fashion world. On October 4th, he showcased his SS2014 collection OMI A Regal Fetish at Fashion Week Brooklyn in Industry City. The audience’s reaction was anything less than pleased giving him the only standing ovation of the night.

Opening with a daring men’s look the designs quickly grabbed the attention of the audience which consisted of bloggers, beauty queens, and trendsetters seeking their next thrill. The first model wore purple graphic printed short shorts and a white harness paired with sunglasses and an over-sized tote bag.

“I wanted to create a collection of something as powerful as a water stream,” says Rodriguez. He explains that his collection was inspired by the name OMI which translate to water. A name that he received when he was first initiated in Yoruba practices. Religion influenced a great deal of his design process.

“Although I’ve been a Buddhist for 4 years I have always designed with my ancestors in mind, “ he says. “I chant and pray while stitching every garment. I wanted this collection to captivate everyone with the energy of my ancestors and the strength of my Yoruba beliefs.”

His ancestors must be overwhelmed with joy after seeing the outcome of this show. The collection did a lot more than just captivate the audience. Rodriguez’s edgy collection of leather and sheer cut-outs excited everyone out of their seats until the very end, when a gorgeous towering bald model came out in a purple form-fitting dress with a black, chained choker. The results, loud cheering and praise for the breath of fresh air that was OMI A Regal Fetish.

This collection followed a color palette of mostly greys, purples, and blacks that were repeatedly seen with high end designers during New York’s Fashion Week. The harness elements and black lipstick made for a play at S&M, but was quickly toned down by the women’s one shoulder dresses. The designer expressed that what sets him apart from other designers was his creation process, “I dream all of the collections I’ve created thus far.” He says, “I don’t use pattern. I envision, cut fabric, & create. I allow my spirits to guide me into the finished product.”

Rodriguez dedicated this collection to his mother Emerita Rodriguez and to his partner’s mom Vivian Jenkins, whom he shares unfortunately passed away in 2012. “With the heartfelt feedback I’ve been getting back since being at FWBK, I know they are proud of me.” The fashion world is sure to hear a lot more from this incredible designer who was asked to show a collection in New York Fashion Week W/F14 as well as Fashion Week Brooklyn W/F14. To Follow Rodriguez’s journey follow him on twitter @SaiOneElmwood and check out his boutique’s website http://saione.blogspot.com .