Okley by M.I.A.

Mathangi “Maya” Arulpragasam aka M.I.A. is a woman of many talents. She is a one of a kind vocalist, an appreciated singer and songwriter, an accomplished visual artist, a photographer and a successful record producer. M.I.A. has it all! Especially now when her first assault to fashion’s citadel seems to be a great victory. Funky M.I.A. plays the role of fashion designer – cool and natural and her creations are certainly a breeze of fresh air into Streetwear City.

M.I.A.’s first clothing line titled Okley was officially unleashed at the New York Fashion Week in 2008. However, hints of her up-and-coming streetwear label reached M.I.A.’s devoted fans through a colorful mind-blowing video posted on her personal website (miauk.com). But this is not the first time M.I.A. is making a debut over the internet. Her musical career, which encompasses various genres  (often with references to politics) also started on the internet. In 2004 M.I.A. earned her fame through file-sharing of her singles Galang and Sunshowers. The video on M.I.A.’s website reveals the concept behind the brand. The story entitled “Real Pirates of the Caribbean” goes like this: Okley Lesley, a real Caribbean pirate, got bored catching snakes and sharks and living on a small smelly island. So, the wacky blonde-haired young man, geared up in M.I.A.’s seizure-inducing bold-printed garments, and hit the streets of New York City looking good with her clothing.

The collection put forward by the rapper closely reflects her own personal eclectic style. Mexican, African and Islamic influences are mashed-up in a hypnotic hyper-aware dance of wild Crayola colors. Geometric patterns with a pixilated look are are done to shock the innocent bystander. Featuring bomber jackets, leggings and bodysuits, M.I.A.’s line is surely not for the faint of heart. The Afrika Jacket, The President Tee in White, The Mexico Bodysuit, The Watermelon Hoody, The How Many Pullover and The Afrika Leggings are just a few examples of must-haves.

It seems that M.I.A. seeks to build a solid career in fashion. She starred in an ad campaign for the Marc by Marc Jacobs diffusion line. The American fashion designer, which is currently the Creative director for the prestigious French design house Louis Vuitton, seems to have an obsession for unpredictable M.I.A.

Okley is for now an underground brand. The aim is to generate an influential, rich with meanings avant-garde aesthetic that allows her most passionate followers to emulate her signature style. Moreover, selling limited edition pieces creates value and a feeling of uniqueness for the real streetwear addicts. You can buy the one of a kind hoodies, T-shirts, thanks, pullovers, jackets and leggings at Karmaloop or M.I.A.’s website.