Jacket by Laruicci
Hat by Binata Millinery
“Lace - Algae X” zipper necklace by Kate Cusack

In the fast-paced ecosystem of digital visibility, it's rare to find a creator who understands the geometry of a frame as well as the person behind the lens. Kaeden Rowland, known to an audience as "Oblivion," has captivated the fashion world not just with her viral presence, but with a raw aesthetic rooted in the "beautiful filth" of Gaspar Noé and John Waters. While she's still navigating the 24/7 hustle of retail shifts at Staples, her sights are set far beyond the checkout counter. From dissecting the technical impact of lighting to styling corporate uniforms with a Cronenberg-inspired edge, Rowland is bridging the gap between DIY grit and high-fashion polish.

She operates at the intersection of retail reality and high-concept editorial, a space where her background in graphic design serves as a secret weapon for storytelling. By treating the camera lens with the same technical scrutiny as a digital canvas, Rowland is effectively rewriting the script for what a modern crossover artist can achieve.

Blazer by SANS FAFF
Boots by Laruicci
Tights by Stylist Own
“Flourish” zipper brooch, “Flower” zipper brooch by Kate Cusack

You've mentioned being a fan of Gaspar Noé and John Waters. Both directors find beauty in the "gritty" or "extreme." How does their cinematic style influence the way you want to present yourself in fashion?

They inspire me to only care about what I think. We need more trashy glittery sluts in the world, growing up watching "pink flamingos" and "female trouble" opened my mind to the beauty of filth or what some may deem as. Both directors have a very raw and perverse view on the world but in a very grounded and realistic way. They tell stories others are too scared too and that drives me to do the same. Live life represent myself with raw authentic.

As a graphic designer, you understand composition and visual impact. Does that technical knowledge change how you approach a professional photo shoot now that you're in front of the lens?

Absolutely! Knowing what lighting does is a big help. In most arts you learn how shadows hit angles and what colors do what to your skin tone. It definitely gives me the confidence to do a full photo shoot knowing what to do on a more technical level.

What is the one thing you're most excited to prove to the industry about who Kaeden Rowland is beyond the Tik Tok handle?

To show everyone I'm a multitalented person. Not just doing art and getting into fashion but someone who's educated, wants to be a household name and that I'm shooting for the stars.

Outfit by Laruicci
“Nexus” zipper necklace by Kate Cusack
“Vivian” zipper earrings worn as brooch by Kate Cusack
Boots by MAGNANNI

You're beginning to partner with massive brands like MAC and CeraVe. How do you choose which brands to work with to ensure you don't lose that "unapologetic" edge that made you famous?

The biggest thing that helps is I'm not afraid to say no to a brand. IfI don't use it and don't like it I refuse to partner with that brand. Rest is easy because I just have to be myself!

Your handle "Oblivion" is very evocative. Does that name represent a certain part of your personality that the "Staples Baddie" fans might not see in a 15-second clip?

I've always liked the word and thought it would be a good username. It gives a reference to Dr.oblivion O'brian from David congenbergs "videodrome". Given the context of the movie it's funny to me to have it as a username.

If you could set the mood board for your first major magazine spread, what would be the primary colors, textures, and emotions on it?

Lots of lilac,greys and creams beiges. A little emo because why not. Of course lots of layers and a dramatic cyc.

Crosby Taupe Jumpsuit and Greer Taupe Coat by Et Ochs
Flower by Broochella
Accessories by Stylist Own

Where do you see your creative career in five years? Is it on the runway, in a design studio, or somewhere entirely new?

Definitely on a runway! I've always wanted to model and know I can do it. I'll also hopefully be involved in acting and in a movie or two.

You're still working your shifts at Staples. How do you balance the regularity of your retail work with the fact that you're now being invited to major fashion launches and events in NYC?

It's definitely hard but it's important to me that I do so. It makes it so I'm working what feels like 24/7 but it's all so worth it and so fulfilling.

**Left:**
Jacket by Laruicci
Hat by Binata Millinery
“Lace - Algae X” zipper necklace by Kate Cusack
**Right:**
Top by MOLA WALKER at ShowroomSEVEN
“Love Knot” zipper bracelet, “Mobius” zipper earrings worn as bracelets by Kate Cusack
Boots by Laruicci

If you could give one piece of advice to a legacy brand trying to stay relevant without looking desperate, what would it be?

Treat your employees right and it'll come. You can't force it, you can only make change that makes people happier and makes everyone's quality of life much better.

You've made the red Staples polo look cooler than it ever has. What is your secret to styling a corporate uniform to make it feel like "you"?

Find some unique clothes within your dress code and style where you can. I try to find jeans that have a unique form and some fun shoes. It's fun to add or change up jewelry aswell as do my nails. The little fun things build up into a unique look.

CREW CREDITS:
Talent: Oblivion
PhotoBook Editor-In-Chief: Alison Hernon
PhotoBook Creative Director + Photographer + Producer: Mike Ruiz
Fashion Stylist: Alison Hernon at Exclusive Artists
Hair: Stevie Rosalie
Makeup: Kyle James
Set Design: Jasin Cadic
Photo Assistant: Dani Sax
Assistant Fashion Stylist: Sabrina Diaz
Tearsheets by Daniel López, Art Director, PhotoBook Magazine
Interview by Lily Kalbasz, Contributor, PhotoBook Magazine
Studio: LOFT ELEVEN TEN

The Beauty of Filth: Kaeden Rowland’s (Oblivion) Vision