COLORSxSTUDIOS

How would you define yourself as a creative?

“Odiyo is an African giant who loves to create.” My avenues of expression vary between styling, photography, and film. I use art as a tool to reimagine the past and to build my present reality.

You work predominantly as a fashion stylist. What attracted you to this role?

Fashion is an incredibly powerful form of self-expression. It can be used to express identity, beliefs, and personal style. As a stylist, you embrace someone’s individuality through fashion, and try to set them apart from others in a way that makes them feel unique and confident.

When did you first learn that fashion can be used as a form of self-expression?

My mother expressed herself fearlessly with her fashion sense. She mastered the art of combination to create aesthetically pleasing looks, which I admired. My pops’ Afro hair was also an inspiration: Afro hair is a powerful political symbol reflecting black pride, as it was popularized by the African American community in the late 1960s and 70s.

How does the Kenyan fashion scene inspire your work as a stylist?

I have to mention the Gikomba Market, the largest open air second-hand clothing market in East Africa, which is located in Nairobi. It was established in the 60s. Shopping for second hand clothes – or what we call “mitumba”–is an intrinsic part of Nairobi’s fashion scene that promotes a sustainable and circular future for the fashion industry.

I also have to bring up Kenya’s Matatu (minibuses used as shared taxis) culture. To me, Matatus are not just a means of transportation, but works of art. From the graffiti and flashing lights that adorn them, to the dress code and Sheng slang used by the drivers, The Matatu culture brings art forms together. This vibrant culture has sustained itself over many years. It’s truly inspiring.

I saw you worked on ‘Bal d’Afrique‘, the short film campaign directed by Gabriel Moses for Byredo. Can you tell me about working on this project?

As a brand, BYREDO translates memories and emotions through scent. I believe “Bal d’Afrique” showcases my best work yet. It shows timeless African beauty through generations, and the diverse beauty of our cultures. The short film spotlights Africa’s rising creative world through music, fashion, and dance. The film’s director, Gabriel Moses, is a visionary with much to learn from. The whole team involved made it easy for me to play my role in the styling department. Honestly, the Bal d’Afrique project has boosted my confidence. And I’ve become a proud wearer of BYREDO perfume!

What message do you hope your styling communicates to the world?

Fashion can communicate messages of inclusion, understanding, and respect. It can also be used to challenge cultural norms and stereotypes around the world. When we use fashion to connect with others, we open up the possibility for positive change to create a more inclusive world. I hope my work does exactly that.

What are you working on at the moment?

I just shot an editorial campaign in Kenya for Moshions—a fashion brand based in Kigali, Rwanda—it’s set to drop mid-December of this year. No one is ready for this, the world should watch out for it.