Law Roach Gives Us A Lesson In The Art Of Style
Legends come in many forms, but no one does it quite like Law Roach. His new book, “How to Build a Fashion Icon: Notes on Confidence from the World’s Only Image Architect” is on its way to becoming a bestseller and we got the chance to catch up with him on everything he has going on. If you love Law as much as we do, keep reading to learn all about him!
FEATURE INTERVIEW:
Growing up in Chicago, what were some early influences that sparked your interest in fashion and style? Were there any key moments or people in your life that guided you towards this path?
Going to church with my grandmother. You know, black fashion magazines, like Ebony and Essence. I was just influenced by black culture and drug dealers in my neighborhood back then.
Can you share the story of your first big break in the fashion industry?
My biggest moment was Celine Dion and the Vetement sweatshirt coming out of the hotel in Paris. That moment is when my career really changed for the better.
Working with Celine Dion was such a dynamic collaboration. How did that relationship develop, and what have been some memorable experiences?
She actually just called me one day. She had been following my work with Zendaya. That one phone call and all the experience really changed my life and the trajectory of my career.
You’ve been pivotal in transforming Zendaya into a fashion icon and the world knows she is your biggest muse. How would you describe your friendship and how that relationship goes deeper than fashion.
I mean, its family, it is a sisterhood and it’s a support system. I think it’s been that way for a number of years. And I’m grateful for everything that we’ve been able to accomplish together.
Winning the GQ Man of the Year Award in France is a significant achievement! How does this recognition reflect your journey and influence in the fashion industry, and what does it mean to you personally and professionally at this stage in your career?
I thought it was really flattering that a publication in another country would want to honor me. I think it gave me this outward look of how, you know, people appreciate me and my work globally.
How would you describe your personal style? Has it evolved over the years and how did you find comfort in being the most authentic version of yourself?
I think my style is ever evolving and changing. I think I found freedom when it comes to expressing who I am through fashion and through my style.
How would you define the “Law Effect” on your celebrity clientele?
Storytelling.
What trend do you hate at the moment and what are you currently loving?
I hate all trends! The trend I do love is when people are 100% authentic and show up as themselves.
What are some of your all-time favorite looks that you’ve styled, and why do they stand out to you?
Well, I think my favorite, which I think is also the world’s favorite, is the Mugler robot suit. After that the DUNE 2 premiere in London, just because it’s just like, in my opinion, one of the biggest fashion moments of all time.
As a Black person and a member of the LGBTQIA+ community, how do you navigate the fashion industry? Have you faced any unique challenges in the start of this fashion journey?
I think being black and gay are two totally different things. I don’t think one has anything to do with the other as it relates to the fashion industry. You know, I think, being black in the fashion industry is one thing, and being gay is a totally different thing. There’s nothing that intersection actually means; the struggle is being black, not gay.
What does love look like for Law? This shoot for Galore was quite raw and sexy so we’re dying to know, what type of person can bag Law Roach?
Law doesn’t date. Law takes men and destroy them and send them home to their mothers.
What song puts you in the mood to conquer it all?
Chaka Khan – I’m Every Woman
What are your predictions for the future of fashion, and how do you see your role evolving within it?
I think the future is bright. The future fashion is always evolving and changing. My role is to evolve and change with it.
How has your cultural background influenced your work and the way you approach fashion that may differ from your white counterparts?
Culturally, how I grew up, fashion meant so much to me. My family and upbringing taught me to survive, and we learned how to create impeccable style with hardly anything.
So, culture is just innate; its inside of who we are as Black people. We are descendants of kings and queens, so to me, liking, wanting and wearing nice things is really ingrained in our DNA.
What are the most important lessons you’ve learned about styling? What advice would you give to aspiring stylists?
Everyone needs to understand that it is not glamorous as one would think. It is a real business, and it should be approached and handled as such.
Tell us about your new venture, the School of Style. What inspired this project, and what do you hope to achieve with it?
I was inspired to acquire “School of Style” because I really wanted to be a part of developing the next generation of creatives. I wanted to serve and establish a training ground for them to thrive.
Who are your style icons and sheroes, and how have they influenced your work?
Grace Jones, Cher, Zendaya.
As we all know, working with demanding clients can be stressful. How do you unwind and prioritize your mental health?
By taking a nap.
Can you describe your philosophy on fashion and style? How do you approach creating a narrative or statement through clothing?
I think it all starts with confidence. Like I stated earlier, once you feel confident, then the rest is easy. Fashion is just there to enhance what you already believe in yourself or see in yourself.
Your book “How to Build a Fashion Icon” offers a glimpse into your creative process. What do you hope readers will take away from your experiences and insights and how do you think it will impact aspiring stylists and fashion enthusiasts in understanding the art of personal branding?
I think the biggest takeaway is that once you find confidence, you will be able to wear whatever you want to wear.
Looking back on your career, what legacy do you hope to leave in the fashion world, and how do you want to be remembered?
I want to be remembered as more than someone who puts pretty clothes and pretty dresses on pretty girls. I want my legacy to be the one that actually opened doors for people and helped them. That is what defines success and allows you to be great to me.
TEAM CREDITS:
Interview By Editor-in-Chief: Prince Chenoa
Photographer: Pieter Henket (@pieterhenket)
Feature Editor: Taylor Winter Wilson (@taylorwinter)
Cover Art Design: Carlos Graciano (@sadpapi666)
Hair Stylist: Tai Simon (@lovetaije)
Makeup Artist: Amber Amos (@ber_amos)
Wardrobe Stylist: Alec Malin (@alecmalin)
Models: Kyle Hall (@mr.kylehall) , Jhan Mena (@jhanmena) , Simon Okullu (@rudeboy_simon)
Casting Directors: Roger Inniss (@boomproductions) & Thomas Patton
Studio Management: Justin Gaspar (@justin.embryyy)
Studio Assistants: Vivian Lee (@vivianxlee) , Jahsai Sommerville (@jahsai)
