Meet Ryan Thomas

We had the good fortune of connecting with Ryan Thomas and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Ryan, why did you decide to pursue a creative path?
Growing up, I was always passionate about art and music, and I dreamed of becoming a star in either acting or singing. My journey began at the age of 10 when I first took to the stage. Acting provided a delightful escape, allowing me to embody different characters and explore new dimensions of myself. However, as I continued participating in high school plays and musicals, I began to realize that I was seeking something more fulfilling—something that demanded greater hands-on involvement and attention to detail.

During the later part of my high school years, I discovered costume design for theater, which initially captivated me. I worked on a couple of shows, but then the COVID-19 pandemic prompted a period of reflection. It was during this time that I recognized my true passion in fashion design. I came to see fashion as an art form that deeply resonates with me and brings me genuine happiness. Pursuing a career in fashion has since become a natural and exciting progression, blending my love for artistic expression with a meticulous focus on detail.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
Being immersed in color from a young age has deeply influenced my design approach. When I design, I focus on creating captivating prints first, and then consider which silhouettes will best showcase these prints. At Ryan Thomas, we prioritize the prints in our design process because each one is crafted with meticulous care and dedication. Our goal is to highlight the beauty of art through our designs, creating pieces that are not only visually stunning but also make our clients feel both joyful and confident.

Attending the Fashion Institute of Design & Merchandising (FIDM) was instrumental in my development. The knowledge and insights I gained from industry professionals were invaluable. Despite facing challenges along the way, my determination and eagerness to succeed in the industry kept me motivated. I am grateful for the experiences and education that have brought me to where I am today.

I want to convey that fashion should not merely be about following trends or conforming to societal expectations. Often, we place undue pressure on ourselves and others to stay current with ever-changing trends and popular styles. However, true fashion is about personal expression and finding joy in what we wear.

I believe that dressing based on what makes one happy and resonates with one’s personal sense of style is what truly defines fashion. My goal is to create designs that reflect individuality and authenticity, rather than succumbing to the pressure of creating viral, trend-driven pieces. I aspire to be known for crafting garments that celebrate those who choose to dress in a way that aligns with their own unique tastes, rather than adhering to fleeting trends.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Hi bestie! Firstly, we’d hit up Melrose for some stylish shopping and swing by the Westwood store. Given that we both have social anxiety, we’d probably opt for a relaxed In-N-Out drive-through on Sunset, then cruise down the Pacific Coast Highway with the music blasting as the sun sets.

For a more thrilling day, we’d start with breakfast at Birdie’s DTLA (now Duchess) before heading to Disneyland or Universal Studios for a theme park adventure. Another great day would involve driving through some of LA’s beautiful neighborhoods, daydreaming about one of those stunning homes being ours. We’d cap off the evening at Rao’s in Hollywood, enjoying some of the best Italian food while sitting in a cozy booth in the corner, because, well, our social anxiety is real.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
My journey to where I am today would not have been possible without the unwavering support of my parents, Sandra and Kevin. Their financial support allowed me to attend the Fashion Institute of Design & Merchandising and made my dream of living in Los Angeles a reality. From a young age, they immersed me in art through visits to museums, plays, and musicals, as well as countless enriching trips. I would also like to acknowledge my Aunt Grace, whose influence has been significant in shaping my creative path. Growing up surrounded by vibrant colors and artistic experiences has profoundly impacted who I am today.

Website: https://www.ryanthomasdesigns.com

Instagram: officialryanthomasdesigns

Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/thomas–oconnor 

Image Credits
Designs: Ryan Thomas: @officialryanthomasdesigns www.RyanThomasDesigns.com Photographers: Daniel Taylor: @Daniel.iso Raul Francisco @rauw._ul Models: Natalie Wojo: @Natalię_wojo Presley Persson: @Presleycp Morgan Cours: @Morgancours Sophia Williams: SophiaWilliamsxo Sky Saxour: @Imnotsky Brent Valentine: @BrentValentine.la Louie Schuler: @Louieschuler Amanda Fields: @Therunwayqueen Group Photo Models: Anna Kanehara: @Annakanehara Ammanda Fields: @Therunwayqueen Markets Lim: @Marketa_red Arjang Mahdavi: @lovefillsthebvoid Chance Embry: @Chance_embry Fulop Dudavari: @Iamfulop