Welcome to FACES OF FAT, a captivating series that takes you behind the scenes of Fashion Art Toronto. Dive into the compelling narratives and creative journeys of diverse designers, as we uncover the inspirations, challenges, and triumphs that shape their unique visions. From innovators to emerging talents, each episode unveils the fascinating stories behind the runway. Join us as we celebrate the diverse voices and untold stories of the fashion world. Today, meet Shelli Oh, Indonesian–Canadian designer of high-end luxury womenswear and menswear collections.
Meet Shelli Oh
Website: www.shellioh.com
Instagram: @shelli_oh
Showtime: November 13 at 9pm
What inspires you?
I am heavily inspired by textures and details, and the intricacies of nature. Since I was a child, I needed to be able to touch something to truly see it, so naturally when something had an incredible tactile nature I not only see it, but feel joy from it. I think by creating things that entice the senses like that establishes an emotional connection to the piece in that way, thereby elevating it beyond just something you wear, to something that makes you feel.
Tell us the story behind your brand.
I aspire to transform the way people wear special occasion looks in the way mentioned above; to help people feel their own beauty and give them a wearable experience. My womenswear and menswear collections are created to inspire joy and a touch of whimsy by enticing the senses and evoking enchantment through design. I design elaborate ‘tactile landscapes’ with hand sewn details, rich textures and jewelled trims that are designed to make people feel something. What makes me happy is seeing people’s eyes light up when they view the pieces and ask to touch them…
Photo via Shelli Oh
What’s one piece of advice you would give someone starting out in your field?
To stay true to who you and what brings you joy; it’s a tough industry, and if you don’t love what you do, you won’t last. In that same vein, the industry will require sacrifices and compromises – some that are necessary, and some that are not. In that process you must ensure not to lose who you are and what makes you and what you do special. Keep that spark that brought you to fashion in the first place, because that’s what will keep you going.
What do you love most about FAT?
I love that FAT embraces that magical side of fashion, and promotes all kinds of brands and doesn’t dare to tell you what it thinks runway shows should look like. I think that’s what makes FAT so special.
Photo via Shelli Oh
What does 2026 hold for you?
I’m hoping to do more work with my showrooms in the UK and LA and do more showcases over there, and collection wise I’m planning to do more work that incorporates more 3D printing into my textures as well as collaborating with artist Yaleh Paxton-Harding to create some special capsule collections.
