PROCESS: Marc Jacobs in conversation with Bryan Yambao.

Portrait by Nick Newbold

Marc Jacobs interviewed by Bryan Yambao for Perfect Issue 7

Every little gay boy with an interest in clothes and aesthetics has that one hero who forever shapes their view of fashion. This often one-sided relationship with a fashion figure is so profound and enduring because it goes beyond mere admiration: it can shape one’s identity, courage, creativity and self-worth. I often joke with many of my slightly more mature friends that I can guess their ages based on their fashion heroes - the Gaultier gays, for example, or the Helmut Lang gays. For me, it’s Marc Jacobs.

I was 15 years old when Marc joined Louis Vuitton in 1997. I remember flipping through magazines and my eyes would light up whenever I encountered images of his work. Those moments were more than just a visual delight; they were a spark of inspiration that remained with me forever. While I was happy to enjoy his imagery as a spectator, of course I had a burning desire to own a tangible piece of his beautiful world too. Finally at 19 I bought my first item: a glittery rainbow-striped elastic belt with a pair of yellow enamel pears from his diffusion line, Marc by Marc Jacobs. It took three months to ship to the Philippines!

What I find endearing in most of Marc’s collections is that they often invite interpretation and personal projection, leaving enough room for one’s imagination to run wild. This open-ended approach elicits a deep reaction to his collections, as viewers are not merely passive observers but become active participants in the narrative. When a fashion show transcends the realm of spectacle and becomes a powerful medium for expression and connection, it creates memories that endure long after the final model has left the runway. That’s what makes many of his shows impactful and unforgettable.

‘Joy, period’ succinctly captures the essence of Marc Jacobs’ vision for his autumn 2024 collection: a bold declaration of exuberance and self-expression. A sentiment that resonates deeply in today’s sociopolitical climate. A sartorial middle finger to societal expectations and norms. His latest outing is a laserfocused unapologetic celebration of silhouette and vibrant colour. The range of shapes and proportions highlights his knowledge of the feminine form. It’s a poignant reminder of how his work continues to inspire and uplift.

Marc’s impact on me doesn’t fade over time; it evolves. His influence remains a life-long guiding force. Fifteen years after our paths first crossed on MySpace, we found ourselves reconnecting online once again, this time on video via Zoom, to talk about the collection.