We had the good fortune of connecting with Carlos D. Morla and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Carlos D., can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
My Business/ Brand ( OSOM ) Was one of those things that came into my life unexpectedly. What started off as a thought of curiosity, introduced me to this lifestyle, this industry i had no idea ever existed. My Names Carlos Aka ‘Los” i’m a sneaker designer based out of jersey Specializing in high quality custom footwear, CEO OF OSOM ( “Outta State Outta Mind” ).The idea for the brand started off my first semester of college, i had picked up a part time at “Finish line” while i was attending school. I Was always into shoes but could never afford them so being in an environment of shoes and all these other. fashion brands i would always look into them on my breaks. Long Story short the air force 1s ( An Iconic Silhouette ) would always be the #1 seller in stores but i never liked how they would only be nice for a wear or two. Which is wear the idea of “Putting paint on leather shoes” Came from, i then searched it up and was mind blown by the amazing artwork that these artists were creating. You know when something catches your interest instantly? thats what custom sneakers did to me and i’ve been hooked ever since. I remember painting a pair of “Pure Money 4s” Purple/Black/Aqua ( My 1st ever custom ) and wearing them to the mall , Kid you not i had 4 people come up to me wanting to get shoes customized. i took that as a sign to pursue what is now my love and passion and really invested myself in the sneaker industry, and still learning on a day to day basis.
“Outta State Outta Mind” ( OSOM ) Was a name created by me and my brother. it explains our thought process if that makes sense, to always go above and beyond,Be Original and Stay Creative pushing boundaries and always think outside the box. Same time create a platform not just for footwear but the clothing parts of it as-well, Also Specializing in Visual Arts
( Photography / Videography ).
Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
If You’d like to see more of my work you can check it out on the ( OSOM ) Brand page on instagram: @OsomWorldHQ, i’ve worked on hundreds of different sneakers over the span of 3 years of OSOM being established. The Brand has also had 4 successful Drops for its official merch, from Trucker Hats To Tees, We recently Sold Out of our OSOM Hoodies, We even dropped OSOM Shades that sold out instantly. Im At The part of the journey where i’m creating my own style/ Lane , i’ve been so dedicated to elevating my craft and growing with the process! there’s no doubt in my mind that whats to come isn’t going to be amazing, i’m ready to continue networking and and making connections bringing more recognition to the brand. Ive hit so many milestones thru out this process/ journey i’m proud of it all! even the losses i turned into lessons and grew from them, it really took a-lot of sleepless nights me trying to figure out how to get to where i’m at Now, all the emotions i went thru still getting up and tackling my obstacles on a daily basis, nothing in this life is easy you have to fight to get what you want, it just makes it so much more valuable when you get it. My Brand has forced me to make changes within myself and i love that so much, understanding business and entrepreneurship keeping myself accountable and being self taught it takes a-lot of patience and discipline and i’m still learning every day thanks to God. i Would want the world to know that i’m only getting started, with myself and my brand i love who i’m becoming as a person and what i stand on. i’m getting to the point where i’m becoming a positive role model for everyone out there chasing their dreams, because nothing is off limits whatever you want to do, you can do it. And As for my brand the sky is the limit theres so much in the works and so many good plays being made we’re growing and we’re reaching new crowds every day theres no telling what OSOM might drop next So Stay Tuned More Merch Dropping Soon As well. And As for my story i’ve faced my own set of difficulties but i’m in good health and i’ve overcome every obstacles till this point so i’m ready for whats next, Always said i would have my own documentary so just wait on that lol.
Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Despite the fact that we’re neighbors to the city that never sleeps ( NYC ) New jersey has so many hidden gems, Ive discovered thru Visual Arts. You’r able to experience so many different cultures Such As the African/Latin American, being introduced to new foods, music, and arts. a Day in jersey with me would consist of hitting a bagel shop in Hoboken and walk along the pier to see that beautiful view of the city, the city bikes are always an option as-well. For Dinner i would go to a Korean BBQ Spot,All you can eat and amazing drinks its the perfect vibe. and if you have a sweet tooth You have to stop at Ducks Donuts! If you know you Know #Facts
Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I Want to start off by thanking God first and foremost, He’s been with me this journey from the beginning and thanks to him i’ve been able to have the strength, wisdom & courage to get up everyday in good health to try and better my situation, so i’m also able to help those i care about as-well as for those around me. S/O to All My friends and Family, All the amazing people i’ve met along the way the relationships and connections i’ve made thru networking and word of mouth. My Older Brother Randy ( Barber / Artist ) *@Randy_Morlife* An Amazing artist with so much diversity in his music as-well as for his barbering career. Bryant Edt Another close friend of ours Amazing artist super fire vibes, My Girlfriend for pushing me to continue to be great everyday @LFDBeauty ( Talented Nail tech ) My sister as-well out in Florida being a Lash tech ( @LuxxBeauty_14) My Parents And Everyone else i forgot to mention i love you all!
So Many have contributed in some way shape or form to help grow ( OSOM ) same time help me grow as an individual, too many to mention.
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/osomworldhq/
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCHVcHYJrcbjWmJ8lr_F8MZw
Other: Visual Arts Page On IG: @LoSo.Lens Personal Page On IG: @OsomxCdm
Image Credits
S/O To @LoSo.Lens (Me) I Shoot & Edit all of my content!