In the past years, a slew of new plus size labels have been introduced to the stores, serving what is already a big market.
Yet still there remain huge gaps in the retail space for the plus-size woman and UK-based businesswoman Olinda Chapel has taken up the challenge to launch her line called House of OC.
It’s not just body diversity fashion but it’s a savvy luxurious line that also includes lingerie and accessories.
We had a chat with Olinda, who recently won the Zimbabwe Achievers Awards UK female personality of the year.
We know you are an entrepreneur, but can you briefly explain to us what is House of OC and how did it come about?
House of OC is a women’s fashion retailer which we hope will be known for its figure-flattering clothing for all women of every shape and size.
The brand includes a full collection of custom-made pieces and general womenswear that also covers lingerie, swimwear, shoes and accessories.
We know women want to look good, can you tell us what influenced you to start House of OC?
As a plus size woman I have always struggled to find the right pieces that I wanted to dress myself in, in my size.
Most plus size outfit lack creativity and are very frumpy. My husband and I decided to come up with our own brand that would tick all these boxes.
Being a businesswoman the financial benefits played a part in the motivation. The plus size industry will in a few years be a billion dollar industry and we look forward to being a part of that.
How much of Olinda’s personality is found in House of OC designs
Most of the designs that you will find are pieces that I would wear myself. But we have also chosen to feature other designers in our collection.
We launched the collection with the Danielle Allen x House of OC line. These featured the Nigerian based Creative Designer Danielle Allen. So that collection also had a glimpse of her personality.
What kind of feedback did you get on the collection and do you believe there is a significant interest for your designs at the moment?
The feedback we have received has been overwhelming. The plus size women have been very welcoming of the House of OC with some key pieces already sold out.
What demography of women are you targeting?
All women of any size or shape are very welcome. But special attention will be given to the plus size woman
How are you involved in the conceptual or design phase of your designs?
I am very involved with each and every design. With our first collection the Designer came up with a concept and we would spend some time going back and forth making changes and sharing ideas.
Whats your unique selling point as House of OC/what new thing are you bringing to the market?
I would really love to bring a new sense of dressing for the plus size or curvy woman. To ensure that our clothing are trendy and are up to date with current seasons.
We saw the mention of Danielle Ellen, can you explain to us her role(s) in House of OC?
Danielle Allen was the first designer to work with House of OC. We worked together to bring our first minted edition collection.
We will continue working together and you will continue to see her limited editions pop up here and there.
This September we are looking forward to doing a collection in Paris for the “catwalk in water” which will be covered by the likes of CNN, Vogue, Elle and other big fashion media houses.
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