Photography by Samuel Jeboda, Jahvanni & Armand Lucas
Model: Sergio Palacios (@myclosetfromspace)
Hey fashion fam! As a young journalist hitting the pavement (and by “pavement,” I mean scrolling endlessly on Instagram), I’ve stumbled upon some serious talent. Today, we’re diving deep with Sergio, the face you’re about to see everywhere, as he spills the tea on his journey in the notoriously glamorous, often chaotic, world of modeling. Spoiler alert: it’s not all lattes and runway struts.
First things first, if you’re not already following him, what are you even doing? You can find this gem shining brightly on social media at @myclosetfromspace. And when asked what he’d do with a cool $25,000 for himself or his brand, Sergio’s answer was refreshingly grounded. “I would invest it wisely to expand my portfolio,” he stated, proving he’s less about the splurge and more about the serious glow-up. Smart move, considering how quickly trends (and cash) can disappear in this industry!
Sergio’s not content with just floating through the cosmos of fashion independently. He’s actively on the hunt, declaring, “I am actively looking for a new agency.” It seems his sights are set on organized expansion, which, let’s be honest, is probably a good idea when your ambition is as vast as space itself.
When it comes to career inspirations, Sergio rattled off a list that would make any fashionista’s head spin with admiration. “My career inspirations are Ben’a Kiler, the head designer and owner from AVENUEX and House of Larue. My other inspirations are Simon Porte Jacquemus and Naomi Campbell,” he gushed. Clearly, he’s drawn to the trailblazers, adding, “all of these beautiful creatives have pushed boundaries and challenged the Status Quo!” Can we get an amen for pushing boundaries? Because honey, that’s where the magic happens!
Speaking of social media, it’s no surprise that Instagram and TikTok are his main battlegrounds for promoting his career. Where else would you serve looks and go viral all at once?
Sergio’s experience with professional photographers sounds like a dream. “I have had a great and positive experience having the aid of professional photographers because I get to enhance my abilities as a model,” he shared. “Every chance I get to team with a professional model I feel delight and happiness because I know I will be able to become a more experienced model!” It’s clear this is a collaborative spirit who understands that a great shot is a team effort.
And if you’re wondering which brand lights up his fantasy mood board, the answer is a resounding “Jacquemus!” He’s got a “special connection” to the brand and dreams of being both a model and a brand ambassador. Manifestation goals, anyone?
His childhood idol might surprise you: Christian Dior. “Because he began his fashion house within a difficult time during World War II and despite judgement and criticism he did it!” Sergio explained, proving he’s been inspired by resilience and vision from a young age.
So, what’s the ultimate benchmark for success for Sergio? No small dreams here! “To walk in Paris Fashion Week!” he declared. You heard it here first, folks – mark your calendars.
Now, for the tea-spilling, gut-wrenching, yet utterly inspiring moment. Sergio recounted a story from his journey that truly shows his mettle. He’d just landed a spot walking for Young Atlanta for Fall 2024, his second big fashion experience. Excited by his model friends’ raving reviews, he arrived to meet his coach. “During our first week, he had me walk alongside a female model to test out how we could match each other’s pace,” Sergio began. “After we walked up and down the runway, he stopped us both and said to the female model while pointing at me, ‘Ma’am, he just out walked and he would never walk in New York Fashion Week.’ He had said this out loud in front of everyone and he said this mainly due to my height.”
Ouch! I was genuinely gutted reading that. But Sergio? “After this moment, my heart dropped and I wanted to quit but something inside me told me ‘don’t let’s prove him wrong,'” he powerfully recounted. “The following week I kept coming back to rehearsals despite what this man had said to me.” Talk about inner fire! The day of the designers, he was chosen by a designer who “truly loved my walk,” and he ended up walking for two designers. The ultimate mic drop.
But it didn’t stop there. “After this show, I was then published in an online article interviewing, and following that, I was published in two magazines. None of this wouldn’t have been possible if I didn’t find that light within me to keep shining regardless of the narcissism and negativity spewed my way,” he emphasized. His mantra? “The moon is the smallest star within our solar system yet it shines the brightest and that’s what kept me going and still does to this day. To all aspiring models, I advise you all to find your inner light and know to differentiate constructive criticism which is very helpful in comparison to outright tearing down a person. Keep shining, all of you carry a bright light! Don’t allow anyone to dim you!” Seriously, someone needs to stitch that on a pillow.
One mistake Sergio learned from? Not listening to his gut. “Your body knows when a project is right for you or not!” he warned, adding, “Rejection is Protection!” A wise lesson in an industry full of promises.
Beyond the runway, Sergio is looking to expand his universe into acting and fashion design. And while he doesn’t have a product line yet, he teases, “But soon I will!” Another reason to keep those notifications on.
When he’s not busy slaying on social media, TikTok is his go-to app, probably for absorbing all the latest trends and maybe even a few dance challenges. His final tip for new models? “Rejection is Protection! Do not fear constructive criticism, there are genuine people out there who want to see you shine! Be openminded and know that life is a climb but the view is always great!”
Sergio’s journey is more than just about walking a runway; it’s about lighting your own path, even when someone tries to dim your shine. Keep an eye on @myclosetfromspace – his story is just beginning, and trust me, it’s going to be a stellar one.
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