STYLE GURU BIO: Jan Vincent Gonzales

In my high school yearbook, I believe I quoted Lady Gaga saying, “And now, I’m just trying to change the world, one sequin at a time.” While it wasn’t a meme-worthy quote like some of the great savages of the internet, I still think there’s great value in why I chose that quote to start my career in fashion.

From the Fashion Institute of Technology to the American University of Paris, I’ve been so “hashtag blessed” to have been exposed to the amazing things that the industry has to offer. I’ve learned a lot about fashion but most importantly, I’ve learned a lot about myself.

So, here’s what I’ve learned so far: always work towards the greater good, never compromise your sense of self and, most importantly, fast fashion is not the only answer to a college budget.

My style is heavily influenced by the cities that I’ve lived in. From New York, I got this daring sense of individuality. From Paris, I gained high regard for savoir-faire; literally translated from French as “know how to do.” It’s the expertise and craftsmanship required to make quality products that last a lifetime. Think Chanel and the 2.55 flap bag.

I wish I could say that I’m the type of person that “only wears black” because I feel that it would save me a great deal of time with getting ready. But I believe that fashion is evolutionary and I know that in time I’ll grow and change. That’s what makes this industry great!

In this outfit, I’m wearing one of my staple silhouettes: the silver Gibson leather jacket from Acne, “Tight Very Stretch Black Jeans” from Cheap Monday, cap toe sneakers from Lanvin and the Coach campus backpack. For effect, I topped everything off with a Yankees cap; a nod to a city that’s made me who I am today.

Reporting from Paris, I cannot wait to share with you all the great sense of style of Fashionistas/os in the fashion capital of the world.

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