How I Dress Now: The Photographer Who Takes Minimalism to Another Level
As a creative, photographer Koji Arboleda is well-versed in different art forms—including fashion. Like his work, it's evident that dressing is something that he takes to heart. We caught up with him to talk about his journey with minimalism, his favorite pieces, and his view on style itself.
There's a schoolboyish edge to his style.
"My style is in the middle of being formal and casual. I really try to mix both. I like the cleanliness of a good button-down shirt, nice trousers, and white sneakers. Then, I pair that with something super casual like a beanie or a cap. I push it sometimes to be fun and schoolboyish. I would say it's a very young look."
His style has been a minimalist journey.
"Before, I really focused on black, black, black. I was trying to be super minimal. And then I realized that I liked a button-down more. It evolved from there. From black, I started wearing whites, khakis, and navy. Now, it's a lot more chill. I feel like the most consistent thing is that I like it minimal. I like wearing my clothes over and over again. When I buy pieces, it's more on the quality and how it pairs with what I have."
And, he has a curated collection of pieces.
"Right now, I'm obsessed with trousers. Straight cut, floor-length. I feel that you can always dress trousers up or down. You can wear them over and over again. It's a subtle detail, but it's something the stands out. I got a pair recently from Celine that has slits in the back. Other brands and designers I like are Comme des Garçons, Maison Martin Margiela, Carl Jan Cruz, and J.W. Anderson."
He keeps it interesting for nights out.
"I try to dress up every day. But, when I go to events, I lessen the casualness. I also introduce more pieces or I layer up more. I wear a button-down under an interesting top. It adds an interesting detail."
To him, dressing up is integral.
"Dressing up just gives you confidence. I get to express myself. I feel good when I go out and I like what I'm wearing. That's really it. It's how I can represent myself. It's not about what others think. I'm just happy when I dress up."
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