We caught up with the brilliant and insightful David Restrepo a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

David, appreciate you joining us today. Has your work ever been misunderstood or mischaracterized?

I’ve found that people mistake my intentions with fashion. People tend to see it as something superficial or ostentatious. Fashion is quite the opposite. Turning a basic human need into art and self expression is what makes us human. Through the presentation and flow of each garment we convey what is within. I believe fashion is often confused with style. Style adheres to guidelines and rules that are said to be most flattering. Fashion is eclectic and pushes the boundaries.

As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?

My love for fashion comes from my mother. She taught me everything about styling. As we didn’t have much money growing up, I learned the importance of a capsule wardrobe. Going to school in a small town in the south, my experimentation with fashion was often not welcomed. College was when I was really able to begin building my wardrobe with meaningful pieces. I joined UNC’s fashion magazine, Coulture, and served as director of videography and model. Social media is where I’m able to showcase my outfits and share inspiration for others.
I want to inspire others to express themselves through their clothing. Consumerism sways us into making poor purchases and discourages individualism. Fashion is an art form that adorns our bodies.

What do you think is the goal or mission that drives your creative journey?

The goal is always to leave the world a better place than you found it. Through fashion, I can inspire others to express themselves and find confidence through the way they present themselves. In a society driven by capitalism and selfishness, I urge people to shop smarter. Buying timeless, quality, thrifted, and pieces that evoke emotion is most sustainable for the planet and our wallets. I like to promote independent thinking and conscientious decisions when choosing what clothing to buy and wear.

Have you ever had to pivot?

I found myself stuck in careers I didn’t see a future in. I dreamed of creating a career out my hobbies instead. I’ve learned that life is too short to not do the things we’re passionate about. As I juggled so many possible paths, I realized the only one that matters is happiness. We feel fulfilled when we contribute our skills to the world.
Prioritizing money, I took on roles that left me feeling empty. Realizing I was wasting my life away, I quit, and returned on my path in healthcare. Although fashion is my passion, it is not the most important work. I balance my work in fashion while also working on the frontlines to save lives. It’s a balance that has allowed me to become most useful to the world.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: @aka_broody
• Other: TikTok: @aka_broody

Image Credits

Stephon Bryant (photographer)
David Restrepo (photographer)