10 Steps to Understanding MIDNIGHT STUDIOS

The age in which a person with a creative mind and entrepreneurial spirit can venture forth and achieve success is ever-dwindling. American-based brand MIDNIGHT STUDIOS is a case in point; the label was conceived in 2014 by Shane Gonzales who at the time was only 19 years old. The brand has since seen substantial growth in business and reception, with nods of approval from the likes of A$AP Rocky. The style MIDNIGHT STUDIOS embodies is that of punk and youth spirit – a synonymous duo. In a bid to understand Gonzales and his brainchild, in perhaps the same punk-like approach as the brand itself, Vogue France asks Gonzales 10 questions about himself, the inspirations behind his brand, and what we can expect to see this year. Read the translated interview below, and check out MIDNIGHT STUDIOS’ Fall/Winter 2016 looks in the gallery above.

Who is the MIDNIGHT STUDIOS man?

A man who pulls from the current mainstream to display its uniqueness

Describe your look in three words:

Dark, functional and rebel

A male icon?

Jun Takahashi

What are the inspirations that shaped MIDNIGHT STUDIOS?

“Rock and roll music, if you like it, if you feel it, you can not help it aim to move. That’s what happens to me, I can not help it…” - Elvis Presley

How do you develop your slogans?

They often come in pieces that have special meaning in my life, or impact my temper, and I hope to share this.

Where do you think you stand in the ready-to-wear?

I think we still have a long way to go, even if I’m proud to see where we are after two years. We are a generation where young people can express themselves and dress freely.

Which designers do you like personally? 

Undercover by Jun Takahashi, Number (N) Inc. before the departure of Takahiro, The Soloist, Raf Simons and HOMMEBOY by KYLE PAK.

What tells the winter collection 2016?

We were inspired by the music scene of Manchester (note: the British music scene of Manchester) in the late ’80s when punk mingled with alternative rock, psychedelic rock and dance electro, which gave songs like “I wanna Be Adored“ and “She bangs the drums“ by the Stone Roses, and oversized and baggy silhouettes.

And what is your favorite piece?

The “She bangs the drums“ top because I myself like a lot of layering. I like the Tactical Pouch Parka which is sized XXL with a hood, pockets and detachable card holder for a subway pass, identity cards etc…

What do you expect this year?

I never expect too much, I want to focus on the present and progress day after day. I have many exciting projects underway that will soon be revealed.