In conversation with .. 5!

Stay true to yourself. No one else out there has experienced
the things you’ve been through, and all
of those small realities within yourself, those very
authentic and personal stories are what make you
different and hopefully, that will be reflected in your
work with a strong sense of rooted identity.
When you aren’t designing, where would MV be
and what would he be up to?
I’ve been boxing for a while now, creatives often
tend to constantly overthink, overwork and overrun
things in their minds, so it’s good to find a way to
switch off even if just for one or two hours a day.
What does masculinity mean to you?
As most things, just a social construction. Something
we, as a society and as individuals, need to redefine,
deconstruct and accept in all its myriad forms and
complexities in order to liberate ourselves from societal
expectations, gender norms and gender hierarchy.
Well said. Do you have a favourite piece from the
new collection?
I’ve quite enjoyed deconstructing things and finding
new ways of presenting tailored jackets, which, unintentionally,
becomes something quite symbolic at
the same time.
What is your favourite city to visit and why?
I love going back to Medellin, they call it the city of
eternal Spring. It feels like that joy we all love and
have when Spring comes back, but all year round,
and also, the kindness and charm of the people.
What is the most fulfilling aspect of your job?
I love seeing how other people re-interpret my garments,
making it an open conversation, which is always
evolving. There’s nothing more gratifying than
giving people the opportunity to self-express themselves
in one way or another.
What’s the most important thing you have learned
so far in this industry?
To believe in myself.
What advice would you give to your younger self?
Don’t stress out if it seems like some things don’t
work out the way you wanted them to, let go and
things will fall into place in ways you never thought
possible.
Finally, describe Leather Boys Part One in three
words or less.
Deconstruct hegemonic masculinity.
Follow Mateo Velasquez @_mateovelasquez
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