Fashion Student Spotlight: Shyan Owtram's AUTENTICO targets style-savvy men

By Venessa Clarke

Shyan Owtram has always aspired to be a fashion designer, and her creative journey to pursue that dream led her to Kwantlen Polytechnic University’s Wilson School of Design. The young designer took a big step outside of her comfort zone to focus on a market whose needs were not being met.

The result is AUTENTICO: a line of business casual attire for men who are looking for both style and versatility.   

AUTENTICO will be unveiled at 2016 The Show: The Final Cut, presented by Tamoda Apparel Inc., on April 6 and 7 at the Imperial Vancouver (319 Main Street). Thirty-five other lines by Kwantlen Polytechnic University fashion design and technology students will also be showcased.

All five shows have now sold out. For event details, visit kpu.ca/2016fashionshow, or follow @kpu_fashion on Twitter and @kputheshow on Instagram.

Venessa Clarke: Describe your collection.

Shyan Owtram: My line is casual business wear for men who are looking for something different and versatile. My collection consists of slim-fitted, tailored silhouettes that complement the body. I found through research that menswear is really underestimated. Some men want to look fashionable and enjoy shopping. So when making the collection, I really wanted to offer something that was innovative and fresh. The pieces are really versatile and can be worn to the office yet still look good enough to go out for dinner with a loved one after.

VC: Can you tell me about your creative process?

SO: My creative process starts with inspiration—an idea which for me can come from anything. Then it’s all about research to understand what’s already available for your customer to buy, what your market’s needs are and what they feel they want or are missing. Then, once the two are combined, I start to design.

VC: What have you learned at KPU?

SO: KPU has taught me to accept creative criticism and to really go for something if you believe strongly in it.

VC: What are your plans after graduation?

SO: After graduation, I hope to open my own business and really focus on making it grow and finding a retail outlet to start selling my designs.

VC: What aspect of design are you most passionate about?

SO: I’m most passionate about the creative aspect of design: knowing that you can make something out of nothing. Also, knowing you are able to create something to make someone feel good about themselves and their body. It feels great to really help people feel confident in their own bodies without having to be some type of super model. Design allows me to do that.