Cozy Cool
Alejandro Valencia hits the streets of West Midtown looking stylish and snug in a fun, fall-layered outfit.
Alejandro Valencia
AGE: 27
OCCUPATION: Fashion Marketing and Management student at SCAD Atlanta/model/ Marketing Director for EcoHome Atlanta.
How would you describe your style?
I like to think of myself as a chameleon when it comes to fashion. My style really changes every day, and I like to adapt my outfits to my environment. Both the occasion and my mood play a huge part when I am getting dressed in the morning.
What fall/winter trends are you most excited for this year?
Trench coats and boots. I love wearing trench coats because I think they’re extremely chic and stylish, yet they also keep you warm on cooler days. Boots are great because you can dress them up or down. They are the perfect versatile fall/winter shoe.
Where did you get these pieces you’re currently wearing?
The beanie is from Urban Outfitters. My poncho is from Topman. My jeans are from Zara. My hoodie is from 21Men. I’m also wearing my favorite pair of Ray-Bans that I never leave home without. The boots come from Wish, one of my favorite stores in Atlanta that always has unique finds. The scarf is my favorite piece I’m wearing because my mother (Natasha Valencia), who is a fashion designer in my home country, Venezuela, made it for me.
Where do you find fashion inspiration?
GQ’s Style Issues are something I look forward to every year, and they’re definitely my main source of fashion inspiration. These special issues come out twice a year and are dedicated to sharing the big trends for spring/summer and fall/winter. GQ Style Issues are something I have collected for years and enjoy looking back on when I need inspiration.
What should every man have in his closet?
I think a high-quality, well-fitted, white button-down is a must for every man to own. You can dress it down with jeans or dress it up by adding a tie or even a bowtie; the possibilities are really endless with this one simple piece of clothing.
Which celebrity’s closet would you love to raid?
Fashion blogger Adam Gallagher. I think he has the dream closet for any man. His clothes and accessories vary in terms of prices and brands, which I think is really cool. He has great clothing for every occasion, as well as unique, everyday street style. I recommend that any fashion lovers follow him on social media [Twitter and Instagram user @iamgalla]. He’ll inspire you to dress up and take some risks with your style.
When it comes to your style, do you like to play it safe or take risks?
I definitely consider myself a fashion risk taker. What’s the fun in wearing boring clothes? I want to stand out with my style, and to get people’s attention, sometimes you have to do the unexpected or you will just blend in, especially when you work in the fashion industry.
STORY: Abbie Koopote
PHOTO: Sandra Platten