Oday Shakar - Oday Shakar

ODAY SHAKAR is a Southern California native of Iraqi descent whose childhood sketches of women and horses unmistakably showed the emergence of an exceptional creative talent. His idyllic youth was marked by political circumstances when a holiday visit to Iraq turned into a prolonged detainment there and separated him from his parents and friends. Faced with uncertainty, Oday sought solace and guidance from an aunt, who instinctively recognized his artistic inclination and mentored him in draping, pattern making and sewing. It was during this time that he realized he was destined to be a designer.

Oday dedicated himself toward this goal with purposeful diligence. After being allowed to return to the US, he enrolled at the Fashion Institute of Design & Merchandising and honed his skills with various sportswear brands in California. To further his understanding and gain deeper insight into what customers wanted, Oday worked in retail for a luxury designer while continuing to develop and perfect his designs. In 2009, he was finally ready to launch his eponymous collection of evening wear.

Each Oday Shakar collection may allude to a specific conceptual inspiration or seasonal influence but it remains resolutely defiant of the limitations of time and trends. Against the framework of meticulously custom crafted gowns and cocktail dresses, Oday weaves together a precise blend of allure and confidence in graceful silhouettes that evoke sophistication and old Hollywood glamour.

Within every design lies a part of Oday’s personal journey. From his heritage, experience and personal triumphs, he draws inspiration to create designs that help women everywhere discover their own special moments of expression, love, philanthropy and celebration.