20-SOMETHINGS:YOUNG CREATIVES OF THE UK,PART ONE ANGEL NZE

This week, I had the privilege to interview a well-known creative and designer in the UK called Angel Nze. As part of my three-part series, my interview with Angel will be the first in demonstrating the wonderful, creative minds of our generation across the UK.  

Born in Lagos, Nigeria in 2006, Angel owns an independent clothing brand, Angel Nze Clothing, that operates in the UK alongside studying psychology at the University of Salford, Manchester. I have always been a fan of his style, a mix of vintage whimsy and modern streetwear, and I wanted to know where he got inspiration, and how his career has developed.  

What are your biggest influences when it comes to your fashion, do you have any films/music artists who inspire you?  

I would say that my biggest inspiration was my brother. I watched him put together outfits and I started posting videos with his clothes before I could hold my own.  

Alongside that, I actually take inspo from a video game character called Seer from Apex legends - He’s secretly who I’m trying to be haha.  

How did you get the idea for your clothing brand: Angel Nze Clothing, was it something you always wanted to do or did it come with your internet fame?  

I wouldn’t say I’m famous, but I started making clothes because I want to wear what I am -  if that makes sense. It feels fake and performative wearing clothes that don’t represent me or my personality, so the easiest solution I could find was to make the clothes myself. 

How does your career change with the location you’re in, is Manchester any different from places like London, Paris?  

For me it is all about opportunities when it comes to location. Manchester is still emerging as a hub for talents and creatives so it's a good place for me to cement myself and have the chance to stand out. 

Where do you see your career take you, would you want to keep modelling or is designing clothes your main passion? 

I’ve never really been a model to be honest. I prefer the idea of other people wearing my clothes and being on camera rather than myself. So yeah, my main goal is definitely to grow my brand. 

How has having an independent business changed your online presence, in what ways do you find it fulfilling/overwhelming? 

It’s difficult if you don’t have a steady source of income, but I wouldn't say it’s overwhelming. You feel a sense of accomplishment when other people are happy to wear what you created. 

Do you feel like influencing has changed your view of online platforms? Do you find the online presence to be something that affects you offline as well, for example, do you ever feel the need to step away from the social media scene?  

If I could go back in time, I probably would not have started the social media career because it affects how other people see you. You don't really know who wants to get to know you FOR YOU or for clout. 

Thank you for your answers, Angel, anything else you want to tell people?  

Free Palestine, free Africa and free my people from any mental shackles they have. 

Angel’s Clothing brand is steadily and successfully growing, I can’t wait to see what he will go on to achieve! Thank you Angel.  

Featured: Clothing pieces from Angel Nze Clothing.