Daniel Ihediwa, a name synonymous with opulence and innovation in the fashion world, has carved a niche for himself as the designer of luxury handbags and accessories brand Carnaby. With a keen eye for detail and an unwavering commitment to craftsmanship, Ihediwa’s creations for women exude sophistication and timeless elegance. His collections, celebrated for their exquisite materials and unique designs, have captivated fashion enthusiasts and celebrities alike, establishing his brand as a symbol of luxury and impeccable British style. Through his visionary approach, Ihediwa continues to redefine the boundaries of accessory design, setting new standards in the industry.
Who or what are your inspirations for creating your designs?
Everyday lives of women.
Creative expression can take many forms, what made you decide to start your own fashion brand?
The women in my life and the opportunity to one day give back on a very, very large scale.
In your opinion, what are the most critical aspects of the fashion industry?
When childhood fantasies are captured in originality with surprise, respecting tradition and craftsmanship over speed and mass production and preserving humanity and teaching the next generation enough to empower them to find new paths instead of being prisoners of dead trends.
What does fashion mean to you?
It is: self expression, creativity outlet, cultural identity, avoiding trend, personal exploration, durability, functionality and an intentional journey to creating future antiques. Ultimately, as a form of self expression and a tool for shaping my identity and how I interact with the world, fashion is one of my biggest communication tools. As my relationship with fashion evolves over time, it's important I stay true to myself and embrace what resonates with me personally
What do you believe are the essential elements needed to be successful as a fashion designer?
Creativity & ability to innovate, a resolve to never follow trend, the best front end team (admin, marketing, PR etc) and the best back end team (r&d, manufacturing etc), passion and the ability to continuously learn.
Talk to us about the collection you showed at The W Fashion Week September 2023, what
inspired this collection?
Fearlessness and the summary of my journey so far.
What are your favourite trends?
The three that never go out of trend;
a. Originality (as much as I can push into it).
b. Attention to detail as it pertains to the right people/team per project, materials and embellishments used, marketing, social media etc.
c. Craftsmanship and the highest form of care that can be applied to executing an idea.
How would you describe your personal style?
I really don’t care. It is however I feel (mood and vibe), depends on what is available and most times it is dictated by occasion and the dress code demanded.
What do you do to track trends and stay in touch with the current consumer?
I don’t. I hate trends and I believe that those who pursue trends are weak and gullible…should I say that? Trends kill creativity. I dislike its capitalism and the consumerism that it inflicts. Trend has a profit motive powered by the influence of marketing that has made a lot of people think that they are fashionistas; they believe they are stylish, stylists and have a fashion game…wait till the algorithm churns out another trend and watch them switch. Even though trends can certainly be influenced by capitalist forces, they are also influenced by a wide range of other factors, including cultural, artistic, and societal influences. Whether I view trends primarily as a product of capitalism or as a more nuanced cultural phenomenon it is what it is…a phenomenon that has continued to bring people together, create anticipation and has sustained fashion and kept so many other industries alive through the hardest of times. It is what it is and people love a trend and I love people!
How would you describe your brand aesthetics?
Clean, heritage and royal.
What was your biggest fear when going out and starting your own line?
Being alone! I am an ex soldier - British Army and the biggest lesson you learn is that your greatest asset are the two guys on your left and right side. A team always produces the best result and this is the best counter to the toxic individualism passed down from generation to generation.
What is the typical design process like for your brand?
I am pretty sure that it will be the same creative process of any luxury brand designer who wants to stay at the cutting edge of innovation and output. It typically involves inspiration sourcing or what I call searching for a theme without an expiration date. When I find that theme I investigate it thoroughly until I distill it to the simplest form. Then the fun part begins, endless sketching, material selection, and prototyping, intricate craftsmanship, and quality assurance, culminating in the creation of exquisite, high-end leather products that blend artistry, functionality, and luxury. What joy! Then you repeat!
If you were not a fashion designer, what would you want to be?
Still a soldier. I would not have left the army. I would have stayed on for as long as I could possibly push an outstanding career out of me. The army causes you to experience so many levels of evolution that there is no experience quite like it.
What are you fascinated by at the moment and how does it feed into your work?
AI. I am still searching how to fit it in
What is the biggest lesson that you have learned since you started your own label?
TIME. Everything we do is within the concept of time. It is therefore the first thing you have to master and yes you can master it. When you have mastered time the second lesson is PEOPLE, you must master how to fit the right people into time. Time and people will make your brand visible and successful…with time. You must learn how to bring these two together in perfect harmony.
What advice would you give to young designers?
Stay with a seasoned designer for at least 10 years.
How do you choose your fabrics and where are they sourced from?
Italy - They are simply the best! Secondly, it’s mind blowing what China can produce and the outstanding quality they achieve
What role do you think social media plays in fashion today?
The highest role…accessibility. It lets everyone in. Right now because of its 100% affordability to everyone its role is incomparable to anything that gives people access, a platform to express themselves and reach the audience perfect for their brand or even in exposing them to a community/family that they can belong to, grow with and thrive.
