IN CONVERSATION WITH JULEZ SMITH
interview by MARIE-PAULINE CESARI
Julez Smith burst onto the fashion scene with a headline-making debut, walking for Raul Lopez’s LUAR Fall 2024 show in Brooklyn, followed also by walking the runway for Donatella Versace’s Fall 2024 show in Milan. Beyond modeling, Julez is a multifaceted creative, studying design at Parsons. He’s also an avid gamer, basketball player, and is passionate about shaping his own creative journey.
jacket MOWALOLA
trousers RHUDE
shirt THOM BROWNE
boots DR MARTENS
sunglasses OLIVER PEOPLES
What’s been your most surreal moment since stepping into the fashion world?
Stepping out onto any of the runways I’ve walked has been surreal. The adrenaline and rush of walking out on the runway is the best feeling—it’s almost like getting ready to play in a big game.
Which moment from your career so far stands out to you the most, and why?
The first LUAR show was incredible. Having my family there was truly a blessing. Their support and comfort, knowing the people I love most were there to watch me work, made it all the more special. The space was small compared to the number of people there, which made everything feel even crazier and more compact.
jacket MOWALOLA
trousers RHUDE
shirt THOM BROWNE
boots DR MARTENS
sunglasses OLIVER PEOPLES
If you could design your dream runway show, what theme or story would it tell?
It would tell a story of the South. I grew up in New Orleans and spent a lot of time in Houston, so that resonates deeply with me. Highlighting the warmth and creativity of the South would make for an amazing show.
jacket and trousers DIOR
boxer PHIPPS
shoes MANOLO BLAHNIK
necklace XIV KARATS
ring DAVID YURMAN
earring Talent’s own
Do you have a pre-runway ritual, and how do you hype yourself up for a fashion show?
Yes, I do. My ritual is putting on headphones and finding a quiet corner to sit alone. I like to clear my mind and lock into my work. I usually talk to just a few people before my shows; too much interaction can feel distracting.
jacket and trousers DIOR
boxer PHIPPS
shoes MANOLO BLAHNIK
necklace XIV KARATS
ring DAVID YURMAN
earring Talent’s own
Fashion is all about self-expression. What’s one thing your personal style says about you?
My personal style says I can try different trends and make them look presentable and cool. I avoid putting my style in a box, so I can keep experimenting and evolving. Sometimes, I want to try unique cuts and high-fashion pieces; other times, I prefer casual hoodies and sweats to showcase my style.
jacket and trousers RHUDE
shirt THOM BROWNE
boots DR MARTENS
sunglasses LE SPEC
ring DAVID YURMAN and MATEO
You’re passionate about design. How has your experience as a model influenced your perspective as a designer?
It’s changed the way I see clothes on myself and others. When I first started designing, I focused on what I thought would look cool on me. Now, I design with a variety of people in mind, creating styles I know many might like and wear.
jacket, cap, gloves, and shoes LUAR
jeans Vintage
boxer HANRO
rings MAOR, DAVID YURMAN, MATEO, and NIALAYA
bracelets XIV KARATS
What’s your favorite guilty pleasure when you’re unwinding from a busy day?
My favorite guilty pleasure is grabbing my favorite snacks and playing video games all night.
blazer, shirt, jeans, hoodie, and boot MM6
belt Stylist’s own
ring DAVID YURMAN
necklace MATEO
If you could guest star in a video game, which one would it be and why?
I’d guest star in NBA 2K because I’ve always dreamed of playing in the NBA.
full look GUCCI
What advice was the most valuable you received when you embarked on your creative path?
The best advice I’ve received is to stay true to what I love and enjoy. I remind myself not to lose sight of my goals and to keep putting in the work.
shirt, jeans, loafers, and bracelet ACNE STUDIOS
boxer CALVIN KLEIN
bag MARSELL
sunglasses JACQUES MARIE MAGE
What’s one thing you hope people take away when they see your work, either as a model or a designer?
I hope people see the time and effort behind everything I create. Whether it’s a shoot or a piece I’ve designed, it reflects the dedication and study I’ve put into my craft.
shirt, jeans, loafers, and bracelet ACNE STUDIOS
boxer CALVIN KLEIN
bag MARSELL
sunglasses JACQUES MARIE MAGE
TEAM CREDITS:
talent JULEZ SMITH
photography MEKHI TURNER
styling SYDNEY LOPEZ
editor TIMI LETONJA
interview MARIE-PAULINE CESARI
