“Give a girl the right shoe and she can conquer the world” – Marilyn Monroe
These words ring especially true when looking at the work of New York’s rising footwear star, OBI Cymatica. His designs occupy the exquisite space between high-octane glamour and innovative sophistication, characterised by sleek cuts that redefine the modern silhouette.
A Pedigree of Excellence
Born in Nigeria and relocating to New York at the age of 16, Obi is a creative force who spent years honing his craft alongside fashion’s elite. His resume reads like a “Who’s Who” of luxury: he has illustrated for BCBG, designed for the legendary Osacar de la Renta, and contributed his vision to the iconic house of Jimmy Choo.
Beyond the footwear giants, Obi’s versatility led him to design for Kai Milla and explore the world of apparel while interning for the queen of New York styling, Patricia Field. Citing the artistic brilliance of John Galliano as a primary influence, Obi’s journey has been one of constant evolution.
Shoes illustrations by OBI Cymatica (from his Instagram account which he updates very regularly)
.
The Debut: OBI Cymatica Fall Collection
This season, fuelled by an impeccable drive and a gift for understanding the woman’s needs, he has launched his eponymous label: OBI Cymatica.
The latest collection is a master class in “sensibility-meets-fantasy.” It features an entourage of sleek, high-fashion silhouettes—ranging from towering stilettos and architectural boots to classy slingbacks and clogs. Crafted from premium materials like suppler leather, rich suede, and exotic croc skins, the collection feels both indulgent and grounded.
What sets these pieces apart is their inherent practicability. While they gravitate toward “sky-high” heights, they avoid being overly extravagant or “costume-y.” These are versatile staples designed to transition seamlessly from a high-powered morning meeting to an elegant late-night gala.
In Conversation with Obi Cymatica
We sat down with the man himself to discuss the challenges of launching a brand and his unique philosophy on footwear.
.
Hi Obi, it is really nice to be talking to you. You’ve certainly come a long way from interning as well as having worked for some of the biggest fashion names. And now you have your own shoe label which you have just launched, share with us some of the best highlights during your time.
OBI: “SEEING my name on a shoes has being the bigger thing for me..And of course, seeing what I’ve pictured in my head come to life is simply the greatest highlight.”
Describe the ‘Obi Cymatica’ woman and your new collection.
OBI: “The OBI woman is a typical working, New York woman. She’s aged between 21 – 67 years old. She works, play, and can be a mother, a boss or even an intern… she is EVERY WOMAN.”
Whilst designing the shoes, what inspires you?
OBI: “Music. It really give me a voice to design what I am feeling inside and out. I need music to design anything.”
.
Name a shoe designer(s) whom you are inspired by.
OBI:“MANOLO BLAHNIK. He really changed my way in thinking, in which “Art first, everything second.”
.
What is the perfect outfit to match with Obi Cymatica shoes?
OBI:“Personal style is personal style…It can be mated with basic jeans, to a skirt, everything. Like I’ve said, pair it up with any and everything – that’s my goal.”
What are some of the challenges which you have faced so far? (with regards to design, clients etc)
OBI: “When starting up the brand, finding help has been hard as well as looking for buyers. But overall, these are fundamental in the shaping of the brand, and of course, to me as a designer.”
According to reports, it has been claimed that the height of a woman’s heels do have some psychological effect on the way a woman feel sexy and confident about herself. In your opinion, what do you think should be an appropriate heel height?
OBI: “I would say a 4 1/2 to 5 inch with no platform. A woman needs to feel like she is walking on cloud nine.”
.
If you could design for a celebrity, who would that be?
OBI: “I would love to design for Zoe Saldana and also for my all time favourite, Angelina Jolie. I love Asian and Indian actresses and would love to design for them too!”
.
.
How has living in New York play a part in influencing your designs? And if you were to be based in elsewhere in the world, where would be it and why?
OBI: “I would love to be based in Hong Kong or Paris. If that doesn’t happen, I will stay here in New York. I actually love the women of New York City nightlife but I really don’t take inspiration from that. Music and movies are where I get my inspirations from.”
.
What can we see more from Obi Cymatica?
OBI: “My Fall collection, of course! And shoes made for every time of woman.”
.
The OBI Cymatica Fall 2013 collection is available for order from the designer himself.
Check out the full collection at http://www.obicymatica.net/ for your pick of his gorgeous shoes.
COUTURE TROOPERS MAGAZINE 