Joshua Damis is definitely one to watch in the fashion world. The New York-based bespoke menswear designer is more than a suit-maker. His experiences as a stylist, costume-designer, and fashion production manager provide him with a unique point-of-view that he is able to translate into clothes for his clients. We had a chance to speak to Damis about his work in the industry, his style influences, and the fashion piece every man should have in their closet.

(Thumbnail Photo: Joshua Damis Instagram)

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1. Can you tell our readers/followers about yourself? What is your background and how did you get started in the fashion industry?

My name is Joshua Damis, and I am a designer/production manager. I was first introduced to the fashion industry working backstage when NYFW was hosted by Mercedes Benz. At the time, I aspired to become a celebrity stylist. However, from that experience I grew an interest and love for the design and production aspect of the industry.

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2. What/who inspired your interest in fashion?

Seeing my mother’s career in the design industry gave me the majority of my inspiration. Growing up she used to work in the NYC garment district making drapery (better known as fancy curtains). I would be amazed by all of her stories of her interactions with different clients. I would also see my mother designing dresses for my sisters and making sure that my clothing was perfectly tailored. My mother instilled the importance of being presentable while also balancing this with the understanding that clothing and material things aren’t everything.

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3. Can you share more with our readers/followers about your business?

I am a bespoke designer and production manager. I mostly focus on crafting menswear looks, but there are some occasions where I design women’s clothing as well. I manage a variety of the production process, from concept to finished product. I have worked on editorial pieces, costume designs for film, and some celebrity appearances. There will be some ready-made garments available for purchase later this year so that will be an exciting venture for my business.

4. How would you describe your style aesthetic?

My style is not confined to one era or category. Due to growing up in the Bronx, I have a strong passion for streetwear. At the same time, I have a very extensive sartorial foundation due to a lot of the things I learned and experienced growing up. With the combination of these different worlds and my innovative additions, my style captures a unique edge, not being tied down or restricted by trends.

5. How would you describe your customer?

My customer is someone who loves unique designs and statement pieces. They are usually very detail-oriented and if they are not the most knowledgeable about fashion, I do notice that they are always eager to learn. That is honestly what makes what I do so enjoyable; I love being able to listen to what a customer wants and then translating that into clothing.

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6. Would you say that you saw major changes in terms of your client and/or what they were looking for during and after the pandemic?

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The pandemic was a very incomparable time for the custom garment business. As you can imagine, custom clothing involves a lot of in-person and face-to-face appointments. At a time of social distancing and everything being curbside pick-up, it put an uncertain pause on a lot of the opportunities and clients that I anticipated having at the beginning of 2020. Although it was tough; It made me think outside of the box and change my mentality around my business model.

7. Pandemic or not, what essential wardrobe staple(s) do you think every man should have in their closets?

Regardless of profession or lifestyle, every man should have at least one dark navy suit in their closet. Everyone will attend a funeral, wedding, or occasion with a formal dress code at least once in their lives. If you don’t fluctuate in weight, I’d recommend investing in a good quality custom suit. That is one item that should be able to last you years.

8. What would you say distinguishes you from your peers in the industry?

I think everything that makes me “me” plays a part in who I am in this industry. Whether it is my experience as a stylist, which gives me the knowledge to put pieces together, my attention to detail from working on custom garments, or my overall taste deriving from all of my interests; all of these things help give me my own unique edge in whatever I am trying to accomplish in fashion.

9. What men do you consider as your style inspirations?

There are a few men I hold in high regard when it comes to fashion - Prince, Lenny Kravitz, Pharrell, ASAP Rocky, Young Thug, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, and Andre 3000. Although all of these gentlemen’s styles are different, that is what I love about them the most. Each of them have found ways to use their wardrobe as self-expression and have changed the concept of what is "acceptable" within the men's fashion space.

10. What advice would you give to younger men or men generally who are still trying to develop their style aesthetic?

I would tell them not to be afraid to try different things or reinvent themselves. I’m someone who has personally tried every style that interested me. Over time I was able to keep and adjust elements, which has resulted in my current style aesthetic. It’s important to know what you like and even if you plan on following trends, try to make it your own - individualism is important.

Bonus - What are five pieces of your wardrobe you can’t live without?

1. Jewelry (mostly gold)

2. A variety of white t-shirts

3. Nike AF1 (extremely versatile shoe)

4. Designer leather wallet/cardholder

5. Leather & denim jacket(s)