Texas-bred, New York-based creative Jake Elias can’t be put into a box. The 25-year-old has many titles, a few of them being actor, model, writer, and, in their own words, “full-time baddie”. They’re also a part of the team at Whorechata World, a Queer Latinx nightlife collective. As an activist, Elias has made themselves known in the fashion world, too, especially for their advocacy for workers’ rights within the industry.

Just like their job title, Elias’s personal style can’t be neatly categorised, and is as varied as their music taste, which they describe as a “Megan Thee Stallion sun, Selena Quintanilla moon, and Beyonce rising”. Elia’s looks are often colourful and striking, whether in a relaxed ensemble or a full-on fit. It’s a dichotomy that, naturally, is as diverse as their astrological chart. “I'm also a Libra moon and Virgo rising, which means I have a sensitive heart but I'm strict AF,” they say. 

This spring, Elias has added footwear model to their long list of accolades, after appearing in Nike’s recent Airmax campaign, produced in partnership with Dazed Studio. Ahead of their collaboration with the brand, we caught up with Elias to chat styling tips, first fashion memories and more.

How would you describe your personal style in 3 words?

Functional, fab and feminine. 

What’s your first fashion-related memory?

I remember wanting to have long hair and high heels so bad that I would put my baby blanket on my head like it was a wig – I’d even tie it up in a ponytail to get ‘the hair out of my face’ and would put my baby blocks in my flip flops so they looked like high heels. 

Your alarm just went off and you have 10 minutes to get ready. What’s the first item in your wardrobe you’re reaching for?

My cargo pants. I feel like Kim Possible, like “what’s the stitch?”

What’s your favourite way to style your Nike Air Maxes? 

I love the versatility – I can wear them with my cargo pants and strappy top if I’m going to a rave, or pair them with a bubble skirt and braids in my hair if I’m going to the park. 

What are some unexpected sources of inspiration for you these days?

Funny enough, it’s athletics. I consider myself far from an athlete, but I love the contrast of sports jerseys with a skirt and lace, or track pants with a heel. It’s a blend of my hyper-femininity with my masculinity. 

With the current never-ending trend cycle and rapidly changing algorithm, how do you stay true to your own taste?

I am definitely guilty of trying new trends, but I always make it my own. I don’t wear things because it’s cool; it’s just cool because I’m wearing it.