From the runway to the Paris streets, Alioune Fall emerges as a new kind of fashion icon and man about town

Get ready to meet the magnetic force in the fashion world, Alioune Fall, the man about town who effortlessly blends sophistication with an air of individuality. Born into a family of fashion enthusiasts, Alioune's journey into the industry was destined.

With roots in Dakar, Senegal, and a multicultural background shaped by experiences in America, his approach to fashion and art is a vibrant tapestry woven from diverse cultures and histories. From strutting the runways for Juun.J and Kiko Kostadinov to becoming a respected fashion influencer, Alioune flawlessly curates looks that seamlessly blend luxury and accessibility.

Beyond his impeccable fashion sense, he's known for his unwavering work ethic, pushing boundaries and embracing the transformative power of hard work. A champion of diversity and inclusivity, Alioune aims to nurture young talents and share knowledge to shape a vibrant and representative industry. With an eye for emerging trends, he's set to leave a lasting legacy in fashion. So, prepare as we delve into the fashion world alongside the extraordinary Alioune.

Photography by Ace Amir
Photographer Assistants: Fet Hilario & Olga Ptashkova
Styling by Ian McRae
Hair and makeup by Christyna Kay with Art Department
Creative Direction by Alioune Fall
Model: Alioune Fall with Ford Models
Videography by Jared Alexander
Video Assistant: Talyse Anir

Rain: Alioune, thank you for joining us today. Let's dive right in! Could you please share the official story of how you got into fashion? Did you ever imagine you would become such a fixture in street style?

Alioune: Well, thank you for having me! It's a pleasure to be here. I must say, I was born into fashion, with both my parents and grandparents being fashion enthusiasts.

However, my journey into the industry began when I returned to New York from Dakar. Fashion has always been a passion of mine, and even back in school, I would plan what I would wear the next day, always striving to be unique. As for becoming a fixture in street style, I must admit that it was a dream of mine. Street style has always been an integral part of the fashion fabric, with blogs becoming institutions and influencers becoming editors. It's an exciting realm to express my ideas and share my story and beliefs without words.

R: It's fascinating to hear how your background and experiences have shaped your approach to fashion. Speaking of your journey, you started your modeling career working with esteemed designers like Juun. J and Kiko Kostadinov. What did you love about collaborating with them?

A: Working with designers like Juun. J and Kiko Kostadinov has been an incredible experience. These brands have allowed me to be a part of their artistic vision, and I truly admire how they approach their respective crafts. They are ahead of their time in creating unique silhouettes and working with innovative fabrics. Being able to contribute to their creations and witness their creative process firsthand is something I cherish.

R: It's evident that you've had the opportunity to work with some truly talented designers. Now, one thing that sets you apart in the fashion influencer space is your ability to make any look appealing and accessible effortlessly. And yet, you're known as one of the hardest-working individuals in the industry. How do you manage to pull it off?

A: Thank you for your kind words! I believe that incorporating my personality into the designer's work is vital. By doing so, I can present their creations to my audience from the perspective of an African creative representing the entire continent. Additionally, I believe that true success comes from hard work. I strive to push boundaries and never settle for mediocrity. As history has shown, those who live a life of ease are often forgotten, so I aim to leave a lasting impact through my dedication and passion.

R: Your dedication and passion are truly inspiring. Now, let's shift our focus to the fashion community. Could you share your perspective on the fashion industry and the importance of diversity within the community?

A: The fashion industry is evolving rapidly, but lacking diversity remains a pressing issue. It's essential for us, as a community, to address this and create space for young talents to thrive. Many aspiring designers and individuals in the industry lack the necessary information and support to succeed. Our elders and established figures must share their knowledge and provide growth opportunities. We can strive for inclusivity and togetherness, making fashion a more vibrant and representative space.

R: Absolutely; inclusivity and support are vital for the industry's growth. Let's hear a story from one of your recent fashion events. Take us through a memorable night and share your experience.

A: Recently, I had the pleasure of attending the Tommy Hilfiger x Harlem’s Fashion Row event. During the event, Mr. Hilfiger complimented my appearance, saying, 'Look at you; you look phenomenal.' His appreciation meant a lot to me, especially because I wore an unreleased shirt from my brand, ABF. It served as confirmation that I was on the right path. Throughout the night, I had the opportunity to witness three different designers express their unique takes on legacy, inspired by T.H. It was an impactful evening showcasing fashion's power to inspire and connect people.

R: That sounds like an unforgettable experience, Alioune. Now, let's talk about the shoot we recently collaborated on. We found ourselves in this magnificent decaying Italianate mansion at a top-secret classified location. You were adorned in MIU MIU, Bottega Veneta, and Maximillian Davis' new Ferragamo collection. What were your favorite moments during the shoot, and what kind of fantasy or feeling did it evoke?

A: First and foremost, thank you and your team for trusting my vision and allowing me to participate in this great shoot. The experience was truly humbling, being surrounded by immensely talented individuals. Wearing designs from esteemed brands like MIU MIU, Bottega Veneta, and Maximillian Davis' new Ferragamo collection evoked a sense of honor and admiration. It's always a privilege to showcase the work of designers I deeply respect and admire. The shoot transported me into a world of beauty and creativity, leaving me feeling both inspired and fulfilled.

R: Your presence truly elevated the shoot, and your ability to capture the essence of each designer's work was remarkable. Now, I must say, you have a remarkable talent for identifying the hottest looks from each collection. It's not always the most obvious choice. How do you anticipate these trends and represent the future fashion world so well?

A: Thank you for your kind words! I devote significant time to research and understanding the fashion market. It has become almost second nature for me to sense which looks will create buzz and represent the future world we'll be living in. By staying informed and attuned to the evolving fashion landscape, I can identify trends that resonate with the ever-changing desires of fashion enthusiasts. It's an exciting and ever-evolving process, and I thoroughly enjoy participating.

R: Your ability to navigate the fashion landscape is impressive, Alioune. Finally, as we conclude our interview, what do your eyes set on next? Any particular aspirations or goals you'd like to share?

A: Moving forward, I am particularly interested in discovering and supporting emerging African designers, including myself. Africa is a wellspring of creativity. I'm excited to see how the industry will incorporate AI into fashion while preserving the craftsmanship and artistry that make this world unique. My goal is to continue making a positive impact by helping the people I encounter, leaving a legacy that transcends myself and leaves a lasting impression on the fashion industry.

R: Alioune, speaking with you today has been an absolute pleasure. Thank you for sharing your incredible journey, insights, and aspirations. We wish you continued success in all your future endeavors!

A: Thank you so much for having me. It has been a pleasure sharing my story and thoughts with you. I appreciate the opportunity to connect with such an educated and engaged audience. Stay inspired and keep embracing the beauty of fashion!