We often think of our clothes as things, as possessions separate from ourselves when in reality, they act as a second skin. Your personal style can help you befriend your body and manage your moods, meaning that your choice of outfit can have a profound effect on how you feel. So, to celebrate the power of clothing to help you lean into who you truly are the FiP team have started a new series called #mysecondskin where we’ll be speaking to people from all walks of life about the role that their wardrobe plays in their everyday life. For our third instalment, we’ll be speaking to fashion designer Richard Kolapo.
Richard Kolapo
Richard is a designer and pattern cutter at Euler after studying Menswear fashion design at London College of Fashion.
Here’s what Richard had to say when we asked him about his relationship with clothing:
1. How do your clothes make you feel?
They make me feel accomplished mainly, sometimes sexy, at other times unique, stylish or cosy.
2. What is your most treasured item, that brings you joy?
DEM Pantz by @bamboorazaq– they are the original samples. I think the mere fact I named them Dem Pantz brings me joy. I called them this on a whim.
3. Do you believe your clothes are political/ define you in any way?
Yes, now I think about it. They exhibit my understanding and appreciation of different women’s skin tones, body shapes and forms of beauty.
4. Has Covid-19 changed your relationship with your clothes?
Yes, I thought more about the psychology of how people will navigate lockdown in terms of spending, what they would like to buy generally and what they might appreciate most from me.
5. What are you planning on buying next?
I’m planning on buying more underwear as I cut many pairs up to help make patterns for some lingerie I’m trying to develop.
Follow @fashionispsychology on Instagram and use the hashtag #mysecondskin for your chance to be featured.
