A Chester fashion designer who started his first label in his bedroom has realised his childhood dream of opening his own store.
Matthew O’Brien, 25, will unveil the shop in Rufus Court in early February.
A former winner of Britain’s Top Designer, Christleton High School student has attributed his success to his ‘determination and drive’, with which he says he always knew he would achieve his ambitions.
Now he is eagerly anticipating unveiling his first shop to the buying public.
“I could actually visualise exactly how I would have it, both inside and out,” Matthew said.
“Even down to the signage outside, I could see it all.”
Matthew O’Brien – Fashion Designer will sell seasonal couture and ready to wear collections, as well as offer a made to measure service.
As if running an acclaimed womenswear label and launching his own shop weren’t enough, Matthew is also a judge and mentor on the second season of FashionOne’s Design Genius – not bad for someone who was dubbed ‘the boy in the bedroom’ for his original studio, which comprised just an ironing board and a sewing machine.
Matthew’s starring role saw him fly out to the Philippines for a whirlwind of filming, press conferences and photoshoots.
Career highlight
He said: “To be a part of such an enormous production overseas has been the highlight of my career.
“I took great pleasure in guiding and supporting the contestants throughout the show.”
Season two will see contestants from all over the world battle it out, creating garments from materials like tinsel and LED lights, to win $20,000 and be crowned Design Genius.
Matthew added: “I know firsthand how hard it can be as a male at a young age realising you want to be in the fashion industry.
“I think young people really need to hold onto their dreams and keep focused, as anything is possible.”
