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Founded in 2021, OHTNYC emerged as a distinctive voice in New York’s fashion scene. Its founder, a former designer in the city, created the brand as a response to the rigid definitions of beauty dominating the industry. “Fashion always seemed to demand polish and expectation,” the founder explain. “I wanted to challenge that — to create pieces that reflect real emotion, personal rebellion, and self-expression.” At its core, OHTNYC empowers wearers to embrace their flaws, their edge, and their tenderness. “OHT helps people unlock a braver, louder, freer version of themselves. It’s about owning your narrative.”
The brand’s collaborations showcase its bold approach. One standout project with Nike produced a “Shoe Piercing Kit,” allowing wearers to pierce their sneakers. Inspired by body-piercing culture, it turned a common object into a personal statement. “It wasn’t just about customization. It was about rebellion — rewriting what a sneaker could say about you,” the founder notes, highlighting how these projects solidify OHTNYC’s distinctive identity.
New York City’s streets heavily influence OHTNYC’s aesthetic. “The city is raw, chaotic, but also beautiful,” the founder says. Inspirations range from early Demna Balenciaga and Helmut Lang to underground Korean designers unafraid of messiness. Being an Asian creator in the U.S. also shapes the brand’s voice. “There’s subtle pressure to explain yourself, especially when your designs feel niche or edgy. But being an outsider allows you to tell a story rooted in honesty rather than market expectations,” they explain. Today, Asian creators are no longer just referenced — they are actively shaping the fashion conversation.
Looking ahead, OHTNYC plans collaborations that cross traditional boundaries — from home objects and beauty products to tech and fragrance. “I’m drawn to projects that carry emotional meaning beyond function,” the founder says. Ultimately, OHTNYC envisions a fashion industry that values vulnerability over perfection and storytelling over trend-chasing. “People are craving realness. Fashion should slow down, connect deeper, and make space for creators unafraid to be emotional.” Each piece from OHTNYC is more than clothing; it’s a manifesto — a call to embrace individuality and own one’s narrative.
