James Benedict talks about his passion for fashion and how he continues to find and strengthen his identity as he discovers his sense of style. He talks about his fashion inspirations, style influences, and key components of his ever-evolving looks.
James Benedict Gamboa-Cuesta has certainly proved himself when it comes to his brilliant mind and masterful inventions, snagging gold medals both locally and internationally, as well as his consistency of being the greatest in his studies. But aside from all the shiny accolades and medals is his passion for fashion.
More of a formal to a casual sense of style, the young entrepreneur is on his journey to finding his identity when it comes to his clothes. Frequently, he tries to capture a clean aesthetic while still following fashion trends from here and there. James strives for chicness and convenience—school-chic, meeting-chic, party-chic, what’s important is the polish and the ease of the look.
One of his favorites that serves as a key player in his outfits is his Gucci Shoes. Being the first purchase out of his own pocket when he started earning, this signature piece of James completes his wardrobe.
“It’s something that I treasure because it reminds me of my humble beginnings as a financial aficionado. My favorite pair of Gucci shoes is useful for most outfits I wear because it is easy to incorporate into my formal and casual ensembles.”
Getting into fashion just recently, in the past, James was not really conscious about what he wore. It was only during the pandemic that he had time to look at himself in the mirror and realize that his outfit choices could be improved and more stylized.
“I started shopping online through Zara, Uniqlo, and some designer pieces. I looked through the internet for inspiration, and I just told myself, this one is better, this one is good. From now on, I’ll be doing stylish outfits.”
When it comes to his fashion inspirations, he has mentioned that Harry Styles plays a big part in influencing him. Aside from his fun and exquisite music, James admires his whimsical and effortless approach when it comes to putting pieces together.
In addition, he mentioned non-other than the Philippine fashion luminary himself, Francis Libiran whom he referred to as his “recent friend.” Known for his signature and well-known art deco embroidery in his designs, James has always been in awe of the icon’s aesthetics.
“Francis, aside from being a very humble and good person, is a genius and wildly creative. I just told him vaguely what I want, and he gives more than what I could actually imagine.”
As a young man who is fascinated with the art of fashion, James sincerely believes in its significance in building a person’s confidence. For him, it represents one’s identity and the aura that he wants to project to the world. What’s vital is its capability to empower people and make them feel good about themselves. He believes that as soon as you find who you are with the clothes you wear, everything else will follow.
Furthermore, he strongly maintains that fashion is not exclusive to the rich but a medium that anyone can use to strengthen themselves further.
“You can be fashionable even with cheap or thrift store purchases. It’s not about the brand, or the price tag of the outfit you are wearing, but it’s about how you feel when you wear this and pair it with that. As long as you are comfortable, happy, and stylish, you are fashionable. And no one should judge you for that.”
Mr. Gamboa-Cuesta’s journey in finding himself through fashion has just begun but the essence of it seems to have obviously been ingrained in his soul. Truly, what never comes out of style is his empowering message to everyone and that is to always believe in yourself and be secure with your identity. Then, you will always win in life.