[Quham, Country Club New York]
You're the first person I've seen that can pull off this sock-and-skinny-short-jean look. Can you give me the rundown of your outfit?
My shirt is from a sample sale at Macy's. The fleece is American Apparel, the tie is actually the tie I wore at my college graduation, the shorts were pants that got short in the wash that I just cut off, and to top it off, my huge white $5 sunglasses. The shorts and the socks make me feel like I'm auditioning for the Sound of Music.
What do you do for a living?
I am a design and production assistant for high-end label YEOHLEE Inc.
Is dressing a form of expression for you?
Of course… especially in New York where you can get a person's whole life story from how they dress. Well that and what subway stop they come from.
What makes a particular accessory or piece of clothing for you?
It has to be unique and give me good vibes. Needless to say, some of my favorite things were acquired in a quirky fashion like a magnetic bracelet some dude gave me in a bar or a tie I fashioned into a belt.
Working in fashion, do you get lots of discounts?
Oh gosh yes! Sample sales abound and everyone has hookups to the invite-only ones. I mean who actually pays retail in New York? I bought the shoes on my feet for a buck!
Who are your favorite designers?
Vivienne Westwood, Yohjji Yamamoto, Halston of course, and Madame Grès.
Any tips on how to stay fashionable in the city in the summer when it's so hot?
Simplicity and economy of accessories for me is key. I get so annoyed when it’s 90 degrees outside and I see guys wearing a scarf, a wife-beater, two mismatched shirts, 5 watches on one arm, and huge bag. It's like, dude stop trying so hard! Wear a light cotton shirt, seersucker shorts and flip flops when you're out and about. And if you wanna accessorize, maybe a nice belt and sunglasses—all in all, it’s just about keeping it within reason.
How long did it take you to get ready tonight?
Not long at all. I put on some cologne, picked my hair and I'm ready to take on the world.
What trends do you wish would die already?
I hate hate hate hate gladiator sandals! What’s the point of looking like you're about to fight to the death in the Coliseum? They are just so strappy and cumbersome looking and I'm much more a fan of sleeker streamlined footwear.
What NYC neighborhood do you most identify with fashion-wise?
I love the East Village…the earthiness and grit and creativity is awesome. Also my neighborhood in Bushwick has an eclectic style I'm feeling right now with dudes dressed like B-boys, skaters and whatnot.
Do you have any style icons?
For a while I loved Marilyn Monroe she was just the end all for me…but now I love Grace Jones everything about her just screams amazingness.
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