Forget fleeting trends. Prajjé Oscar is serving up heritage, baby. The Haitian-American fashion designer, Prince Prajjé Oscar Jean Baptiste, is making waves, not just with beautiful clothes, but with a powerful narrative woven into every stitch. His luxury brand isn’t just fashion; it’s a vibrant tapestry of Haitian culture blended with modern, high-fashion swagger. Think wearable art, splashed with bold colors and intricate details, each piece whispering stories of resilience and history.
So, what’s driving this cultural force?
For Prajjé, NYFW isn’t just another date on the fashion calendar. It’s a bullhorn to the world. “NYFW 2024 is an opportunity to showcase the depth and richness of Haitian culture on a global stage,” he explains.
A: “A show at NYFW offers an unparalleled platform to elevate designers and connect with industry leaders, influencers, and fashion enthusiasts.” It’s about aligning with a vision, a collective appreciation for the intersection of art, culture, and fashion.
From Boston Streets to Runway Dreams, his journey wasn’t paved in gold. Being a Haitian fashion designer, Prajjé’s first steps in the industry were as an assistant for a local designer in Boston, a crucial learning ground where he absorbed the “ins and outs” of the fashion world.
A: “My first job in the fashion industry was working as an assistant for a local designer in Boston, where I learned the ins and outs of the fashion. I also worked retail for a overlong time of some major brands”.
Prajjé gains inspiration is Haiti being his muse. It’s All About Haiti for the Haitian fashion designer. Inspiration isn’t some abstract concept for Prajjé; it’s deeply rooted in his identity. “I find inspiration everywhere, but my biggest source is my Haitian heritage,” he declares.
A: “The stories, art, history, and resilience of Haiti constantly fuel my creativity. I also draw inspiration from the natural beauty, vibrant colors, pop-culture, and powerful stories of people. I aim to create collections that not only look beautiful but also tell a deeper, more meaningful story.”
Prajjé’s got some real talk for young Haitian fashion designers and designers of color: “My advice to young designers of color is to stay authentic to who you are and where you come from. Use your unique perspective as your greatest asset. The fashion industry can be tough, but don’t let anyone dim your light or creativity. Network, find mentors, and always keep pushing boundaries. Most importantly, trust your vision and don’t be afraid to bring something new to the table.“
A: “To Haitian designers, I would say embrace your heritage. There’s so much richness in our culture, from our art to our history. Use that as your foundation. At the same time, be persistent and disciplined. The fashion industry is competitive, but with hard work and a strong sense of identity, you can stand out. Remember that our culture has a lot to offer the world—tell your story through your designs.”
Let’s talk about that jacket. The one emblazoned with a striking portrait of a Haitian revolutionary leader. It’s not just a piece of clothing; it’s a statement. Prajjé collaborated with artist Philippe Dodard, transforming his painted portrait into a powerful textile.
A: “Thank you! The Jacket features Philippe Dodard’s work, painted portrait of Haitian revolutionary leader as a tribute to the heroes who fought for Haiti’s independence. It is a collaboration scarf between the two of us; we used it to create a new textile. Mix with other Prajje Oscar prints and paintings to make the custom #43 number jackets. You can purchase that scarf online. The Jacket symbolizes strength, resilience, and the spirit of freedom. The design process was very personal, reflecting Haiti’s past, the fight for justice for #43, and our current equality. Making the Jacket more than just fashion—it’s a wearable historical declaration, lol.“
Prajjé Oscar isn’t just designing clothes; he’s curating a conversation, sparking dialogue, and celebrating a culture with every stitch. Keep your eyes on this one; he’s just getting started.
