by Jacob Selmonosky
From a young age, my mother was very particular about how I dressed. She ensured that I left the house in a matching outfit and did not go out in pajamas or “house clothes.” Today, I maintain this decorum and ensure that I leave the house in a fashionable outfit with thoughtful accessories to spice it up. However, I sometimes relax my clothing choices and you may see me enjoying a good pair of leggings. Fashion has long been a part of my life and I am excited that my career will be the main focus of it. It is exciting to work in a field where many men in the industry are introducing other men to new trends and breaking barriers between women and men’s fashion. By bringing clothing pieces and accessories over to their domain as well, fashion becomes more adventurous and inclusive for men. One day, others will look up to me for fashion advice and stylistic inspiration. However, for now, I’ll introduce you to my favorite male, style influencers who are constantly at the top of their game.
Pelayo has amounted to 1 million Instagram followers through his account @Pelayodíaz, he and calls Spain home. While scrolling through Pelayo’s Instagram, you are met with a multitude of images containing the latest “it” bags, virtual or in-person fashion show appearances, and his amazing chameleon sense of fashion. In two sister posts (see graphic), Pelayo is wearing a beautiful beaded/embroidered cardigan from Lanvin, with a silk button-up underneath that pokes out at the neck and the ends of the sleeves, paired with a casual set of trousers. The next post shows a close-up of the Lanvin cardigan, displaying the intricate details and attention that this fashion house pays to its creation. In another shot (see graphic), he is in a gray hoodie, with some jeans, a black overcoat, and a pair of Nike Air Jordans. To tie this all together, he has a Gucci Jackie 1961 Mini Hobo Bag in GG Supreme Canvas. This blend of traditional male fashion with the inclusion of the traditionally female handbag is one of the reasons I include Pelayo on this list. He can seamlessly blend the fashions of multiple genders into one harmonious outfit while also maintaining various aesthetics.
https://www.instagram.com/pelayodiaz/?hl=en
Graphic by Jacob Selmonosky, pictures from @thebirkinboy.
The unnamed @THEBIRKINBOY has long been a mysterious influencer on Instagram with at least four Birkins and two Kelly’s from Hermès. He always hides his face and his name is unknown as he traipses throughout Europe, capturing his adventures and life in beautiful images mixed in with his bags and outfits, almost expertly placed. His style is a mixture of simple neutrals, often blazers and trousers paired with a simple shirt or tank top, Cartier jewelry adorning his wrists, and a bag by Chanel or Hermes. Even when he wears sports leisure-wear, he pairs his outfit with jewels and the finest handbags. Casual but luxurious is the aesthetic best used to describe him. If you follow male fashion that is more in the norm and also are attracted to beautiful vintage and new luxury pieces, follow @THEBIRKINBOY.
https://www.instagram.com/thebirkinboy/?hl=en
Graphic by Jacob Selmonosky, pictures from @motiankari.
Motian, @Motiankari, is a New York City fashion influencer, who attended the Fashion Institute of Technology and has an Instagram following of 191,000. His profile is a mixture of fashion and political activism. His Instagram account covers his travels, work, and outfits, seamlessly displayed through a collage of stylistic images. Whether interested in fashion or not, his brand is appealing to all men as his sense of fashion is much more generalized. When Moti is not on a tropical vacation, his style is much more masculine in a traditional sense, with a lack of “feminine” accessories that some of these other influencers tend to sport. Moti’s style approach seems to be built around creating an outfit out of basics and then spicing it up with a pair of designer shoes that everyone wants or a vibrant button-up over a tank-top. If you want a daily dose of New York and fashion, or a tropical picture escape, you should definitely check out Moti’s page.
https://www.instagram.com/motiankari/?hl=en
Graphic by Jacob Selmonosky, pictures from @crownedchase.
Although this next creator has a small following, I predict he will become more popular. @crownedchase Instagram is an aesthetically pleasing collection of fashion photoshoots that make me want to reach in and borrow his outfits. He is on-trend and loves a handbag, which makes him a favorite in my book. His overall style is that of someone you would expect to see front-row at fashion week or perhaps shopping in Milan. In one shot, he pairs a gorgeous off-white Chanel Gabrielle bag, with a navy white striped blazer and black hoodie, as well as a pair of latex-like H&M pants with the latest Bottega Veneta boots. His profile reminds me of a cousin of @THEBIRKINBOY, but with an American twist. As an up-and-comer, I certainly suggest following @crownedchase.
https://www.instagram.com/crownedchase/?hl=en
These fashion influencers will leave you inspired no matter your gender or style. It is incredible to see how these influencers are breaking into a predominantly female-centered market and breaking status quos. I can’t wait for you all to check out these creators.