Since its inception some years ago in the thick of the Sneaker boom, DQM has become not only one of NY's best known retailers but the worlds, its bold themes and branding have led to the creation of a very strong streetwear brand itself, and of course with Dave Ortiz at the helm it will only continue to grow. We spoke to Dave to discuss the recent changes in the market and movements forward for DQM and of course took the chance to get to know the former Zoo York team manager. Interview by Matthew Ross.

SXH: Dave, when you initially opened DQM, the sneaker market was very different to the way it is today, how have you adapted, and what do you think led the market to change?

DO: Well when we first opened the shop the sneaker market was more underground now it’s a bit more mainstream but we have adapted by developing our own DQM brand which we have been doing from the first day we opened the doors. I think the press/attention sneakers got with the introduction of rare styles and colors not to mention what people would pay for them led to the change of the market and even more attention after that  with the introduction of sites like yours, TV shows showing the culture , magazines and celebrity wearing the cool kicks all of that makes a difference.
 
SXH: Have you noticed a change in customers?  If so what?

DO: I think the customers haven’t changed much they are still the same you just have new age groups I see more parents and lots of younger kids buying this lifestyle.

 
SXH: The progression of your own line is very important to DQM, where do you pull your inspiration?

DO: Well , first of all I don’t create everything that you see, most of the creative direction and designs for DQM comes from my partner Chris Keeffe ,with the help of  Kyle Demers and the rest of the crew at DQM . We brainstorm together and keep things loose idea wise then when it’s time to get busy we try to make ideas materialize and if it wasn’t for the crew at the shop and everyone who supports DQM we could not do this .

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