EXCLUSIVE: James Reid Tells Us His Personal Highlights During Men's Fashion Week

James Reid kicked off 2024 in the best way possible. Spotted at the most anticipated Men's fashion shows in the calendar, James took over the headlines with his contemporary looks and captivating visuals in Milan and Paris Fashion Weeks.

In this Metro exclusive, let James take you through his first time in Men's Fashion Week, the influential people he met, and all the pieces he resonated with. 

1. What’s the energy like in Men’s Fashion Week?

I was lucky enough to be invited to the fashion shows of these huge brands. This is my first Men’s Fashion Week so at the beginning the feeling is a bit overwhelming. From the music, the fashion, the set-up of the stages, there was such a high energy and everyone was dressed to impress. The first day I did two shows: the Fendi and Giorgio Armani show. It was really an eye-opening experience. Even from walking in the entrance when you get dropped off, you’re immediately surrounded by paparazzi and fans. I was really happy to see a lot of Filipinos. 

Also apart form being in the shows, being out in Milan is amazing. The city is very fashion-forward and the food was incredible. We were just hopping around eating and shopping. 

2. Can you tell us your personal highlights from the shows you attended?

One of my personal highlights happened at the very beginning at the Fendi show. I was able to meet James Franco, I was starstruck! I also met through common friends Winston Duke who was in Black Panther. I was able to hang out and grab drinks with both of them after the show, which was really a dream come true. That was my very first show so it kind of set the bar very high for the rest of my trip. During the same day, I went to the Giorgio Armani show where I met Mr. Armani himself. He was very kind and a sweet old man.

The Louis Vuitton show was the most anticipated and had the biggest attendance, it was the first show I attended in Paris. I saw so many stars there like Swae Lee, Lil Yatchy, Offset, and Bradley Cooper. It was crazy and I was really lucky I got front row seats and just being there kind of felt like I was in a dream.

3. Sound production plays an important part in storytelling. What is it like to witness these large scale runway shows as someone interested in music and fashion?

The music choice per show were very different and they effectively communicated what the line was about. The Louis Vuitton show was memorable because Pharrell, one of the icons in the music and fashion industry, released new music on the runway. As a musician who also transitioned into fashion, the Louis Vuitton show was impressive to watch. I also liked the runway show of System, a Korean brand specializing in contemporary mens and womenswear. The music they chose was very experimental, intimidating, and almost provoking.

4. What are the pieces/looks that resonated with you the most?

The pieces that stood out to me the most were the accessories, bags, and shoes. I’m eyeing on the Louis Vuitton cowboy boots and the shoulder bags that were presented during the show. 

5. How did you prepare your wardrobe for Men's Fashion Week?

I’ve been working with my stylist John Lozano since June last year. He’s not just my stylist, he’s more of like a fashion director and we collaborate a lot. It was really a fun process because our direction has been changing and evolving. It was so nice to work with him in Milan and Paris because he’s very well-versed. It’s always fun to work with John and he always finds a way to not make it feel like work. 

I feel very lucky to have brands dress me for Men's Fashion Week. Most of the looks I wore came from current collections and we combined them with pieces that I already own. 

Lead Photo from @davegraciadas on Instagram