HCM. What is the name of your brand, and how did you come up with the concept for your brand? Khalil. My brand name is CIDENNA, a name I came up with that means created indifference. My whole concept behind the brand was to give people something nice to wear that they couldn’t find anywhere else. I create limited designs that only a few can get their hands on and I think our customers love that thrill of being the first and only to have it. Who doesn’t like having their hands on something exclusive?
HCM. How did hip-hop influence the creativity for your brand?
Khalil. Hip hop is such a huge culture on its own that anything I design has some sort of inspiration behind it. Hip hop influences the way I design my collections to the way I create and style my photoshoots. Moving forward my goal is to collab with music artists because they impact the fashion industry so much that its only right to give the credit back.
HCM. What are some of your greatest challenges as a designer, and what is your greatest attribute when it comes to your work ethic?
Khalil. I have to say manufacturing my products in a timely manner is one of my greatest challenges. I would love for my products to be brought to life the same day I design them but that’s just not realistic so having to wait, sucks. My greatest attribute would have to be knowing my worth. Many designers cut themselves short because they don’t know their worth but I happen to take pride in my worth ethic while remaining humble and thankful.
HCM. What impression would you like consumers to be left with after purchasing your apparel?
Khalil. I would love for them to get the impression that CIDENNA has great customer service and an easy checkout experience along with them loving the designs I created down to the material it was made with.
HCM. Is there anyone you’d like to thank, any shout outs?
Khalil. I want to give a big thanks and shout out to my immediate family for always being there for me while taking on this designer journey and of course a shout out to all my models, customers, and supporters.
For more info about Khalil Walthour and the CIDENNA brand, connect with them on social media:
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