Meet Christopher Bailey of 1-Off Recycled Garment Project in San Fernando Valley

Today we’d like to introduce you to Christopher Bailey.

So, before we jump into specific questions, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
I was born in 1991 in Orlando, FL. I moved to Alabama, then Texas and then Arizona where I grew up. I’ve been an artist my whole life. Two years ago, I moved to LA to pursue art professionally. I’ve been studying clothing design since 2013. I had an internship in New York City with Billionaire Boys Club and it really changed my life. In 2015 I finished school and me and best friend started Habitat Studios; a place to support creative habits. Since then, I’ve been developing my craft. I started 1-Off Recycled Garment Project three years ago. I was going through a tough time in life when I started it. It’s a concept brand that I created to make the wearer aware that each garment has a past and each is 1 of 1 just like each of us. I am and you are the LAST ONE LEFT.

That kind of sounded like a resume. I’m not that professional, I’ve never really even had a real job. They wouldn’t even hire me at Urban Outfitters.

I don’t only make clothes, I also have a passion for music, which I have been studying for the last five years. I don’t like to be categorized, I’m just an artist that wants to inspire people to express themselves and bring their ideas to life.

Has it been a smooth road?
There have been so many potholes. If where you’re going is truly somewhere special, that shit ain’t never smooth. I definitely struggled with being from a place that could not support me in the ways I needed to grow as an artist. Money was always an issue. People were always trying to haggle, which made me question my own self-worth and the quality of my work. Some people came around me and they weren’t REALLY my friends. That was tough. It definitely hasn’t been a smooth road but it is and has been a really dope and beautiful process. All of that said, most of the things stopping you are in your mind. A lot of times, we get in our own way and that is truly the toughest challenge. Letting go is not is easy but it is key.

We’d love to hear more about your work and what you are currently focused on. What else should we know?
My brand upcycles second-hand garments/ materials. I started out just printing my logos on stuff from the goodwill. Then I learned how to screenprint. Then I learned how to sew. Then I formed a team and now WE are innovating the way that garments can be reused. I turn blankets into hoodies, sweaters, pants, hats, bags, etc. What sets me apart from the people in this market is branding. I’m taking vintage reselling and thrifting to the next level with branding and unique shopping experiences. People have the ability to customize a garment at the flea market. I’m proud to be different. I’m proud to be able to do this.

Let’s touch on your thoughts about our city – what do you like the most and least?
I like the amount of opportunity in LA. Something is always going on and there’s always an opportunity. I like the traffic and the air quality the least. And I dislike the fake personalities that I sometimes meet the most.

Contact Info:

• Website: 1offproject.com
• Instagram: 1offproject, chrisvsmyself

Image Credit:
Demetrio Portillo, Santino Ulloa

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