[unusual] is a global contemporary fashion house celebrating the richness of culture through refined transcontinental garments. The label serves as a bridge between diverse cultural values, seamlessly expressed through designs that marry the ethnic with the universal. Drawing inspiration from both Western and Eastern contemporaries, [unusual] embodies the essence of a third-culture contemporary aesthetic.

 

The fashion house allows a space in between tradition and contemporary by highlighting characteristics of both Eastern and Western fashion, essentially defining the gray area in between these cultures. By combining Continental (Americana/European) classics with Indo-African traditional garments and then designing within the lens of contemporary streetwear, the Creative Director known as “Cailou”, aims for worldwide representation. The American born designer was raised in New York City and Abu Dhabi, and grew up with French and Indian heritage. Through his design he celebrates his Indian and Nigerian blood, and his global experience. As a global nomad, the designer established the contemporary fashion house in the vision of his third culture experience. Growing up in the diverse cultures of both the Western and Eastern hemispheres has given him the opportunity to connect with people from all nationalities.

 

“The idea of luxury in fashion is something fleeting, as global citizens struggle to relate to the heritage of Louis Vuitton or Prada, that is why my mission is to represent Asians and Africans and ultimately create space for unity among all. I feel as if there is so much shared culture and history between all of us that so many don't realize. The way we dress is especially determined by centuries of trade and conflict between countries. Luxury in fashion used to be defined as foreign goods, these days they are more or less determined by a logo. I am trying to repackage that idea of exotic goods and show what luxury means in a global context.” 

 

The garments created are concise in the ethos of third culture heritage with the creation of renewed traditional clothing and re-interpreted classics. Even the T-shirt, which is universal, can be re-imagined in a global context.