Meet Damaris Dam” Nugin | Designer; CEO/Founder”

We had the good fortune of connecting with Damaris “Dam” Nugin and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Damaris “Dam”, we’d love to hear more about your end-goal, professionally.
The end goal for Dirty Dian? Wow I don’t necessarily think there will ever be a “end”, but if I had to say I want the brand to be one of the biggest streetwear brands that designs merchandise for rappers in the industry. The hip-hop culture is a significant part of Dirty Dian so it just makes sense.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
2015 was when I developed the name for the brand and really decided to pursue designing. It wasn’t until 2018 that I actually produced my first design I guess you can say fear and doubt took over. I always knew I had it in me, I always knew I was unique but I wanted to get a clear understanding of how I wanted my brand to be presented to the world. Deciding to make “Dirty Dian” a lifestyle brand was how I was able to make the connection of the brand and myself. Fashion, getting fly, looking good is something I do on the regular not just when it’s a special occasion. My journey with the brand thus far has truly been so fulfilling, not easy but extremely worth it! I love every minute of everything! I work at the brand every single day! Over the years I have learned to not get caught up in who supports and who doesn’t and I have also learned that every brand is not for everybody and I am ok with that! Dirty Dian brand is a brand for the “every day” person. We are a non-traditional brand that doesn’t follow any rules and proudly represent those who choose to live boldly, wild, and free.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
So Im from Philly and to be honest I don’t do too much in the city but when I do I love to head into the city and shop at my favorite store Joan Shepp and then grab a bite at one of my quick spots like Parc, or Rouge. I also love the northern liberties area as well in Philadelphia. I love the uniqueness, diversity, and art culture that the area has to offer.

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?
Everything I do, everything that the brand is and what it represents is all because of “Dian”, my gramps. She was my best friend and my inspiration behind starting the brand. She was a self taught artist who could draw anything and did it effortlessly. However she was very fashionable in her own way without even knowing it. You could always catch her in a big fancy fire hat and a oversized denim jacket. I love my brand “Dirty Dian” so much because of my deep love for her. I wish she could be here with me now and see me as a designer, I know she would be in awe!

Website: dirtydian.com

Instagram: @shopdirtydian

Twitter: @shopdirtydian

Other: Email: contact@dirtydian.com