Getting acquainted with Joel Moore-Hagan
From interior design and lifestyle content to major outfit inspiration, Joel Moore-Hagan has an eye for bringing beauty to the practical parts of life. Based in New York and Georgia, Joel expresses himself through his timeless yet modern style and isn't afraid to try out a pop of color or a bold print. We knew he'd be the perfect candidate for our first-ever male partner to design a classic frame shape with a bit of an edge. We'd love to introduce you to his capsule, The Stray, and give you some more background on Joel's inspirations, industry experience, and even his guilty pleasures!
What drove you to create a capsule with Aperçu? Why do sunglasses resonate with you?
Designing a collection in the fashion space was always a huge goal of mine, so when Aperçu reached out, it was the perfect fit because sunglasses are a part of my wardrobe and everyday attire. Nice eyewear can really tie a look together and that’s what I’m all about.
What was your biggest inspiration when developing the design? How did you decide on the shape and colors?
What I wanted to accomplish when designing the sunglasses was a universal cat-eye. I’m a huge fan of the accessory, however, I didn’t have any sunglasses with the cay-eye shape in my collection. Whenever I tried on a cat-eye, they were either too feminine or the shape wasn’t right for my face. "The Stray" is the shortened version from stray cat. They're sunglasses that everyone can wear and love!
We know it’s difficult to choose just one, but if you had to wear one of the frames from your capsule every day, which one would it be and why?
That’s a tough decision— it’s like asking me to choose my favorite child! To be fair though, I would say black. It's neutral, matches with everything, and you can wear it from season-to-season so you can’t go wrong! Even though it’s black, the shape is still interesting enough for a nice pop!
We absolutely love how you balance masculine and feminine influences in your personal style. Do you have any tips on how to effortlessly express yourself through a mix of menswear and womenswear?
I never understood the idea of gender assigned clothing. The idea of separating “the men’s section” from “the women’s section” seems very outdated to me. I've always thought people should wear whatever they feel comfortable and most like themselves in. Ever since I was old enough to shop for myself, I would always look around the entire store no matter the section because I never knew what I could come across that would work for me. I encourage everyone to try that out. You might come across a t-shirt that fits better or pants that have a more fun print. Erase the idea of "this is meant for this gender” out of your mind.
When shooting the campaign for this collection, what was the main mood and/or message you wanted to convey in the images?
When shooting the collection, I wanted to capture the essence of Summer. Ice cream, beach days, bodega runs, etc. I just want to have fun with everything I do in life and I wanted to showcase the Moore x Aperçu line within everyday situations because I hope to see people out and about wearing them within everyday occasions.
We love following along with your interior design projects! Do any elements from your interior aesthetic translate into your approach to fashion?
Thank you! I feel like my interior and fashion sense go hand-in-hand. While renovating our new home, my interior style is very traditional with a modern yet contemporary twist. Our home is from the '50s, however, a couple years back, it got that contractor-grade flip so we’re adding more charming elements back into the space like beams, wallpaper, wainscoting, and picture frame moldings. I feel that my style is the same way. Wearing traditional/classic pieces like blazers or a button-up and pairing it with more modern or non-traditional pieces.
What would you say has been your most rewarding experience since working in social media?
Honestly, connecting with people. For the most part, social media is still new-ish, but I love that it brings people together and sparks conversations. Connecting with my audience who have common interests is my favorite. Also, just sharing aspects of my life that others can relate to feels rewarding.
What’s the most sentimental fashion item in your closet and what’s the story behind it?
I have a few sentimental fashion items in my closet, but one that comes to mind is this vintage Dior bag that I purchased probably around 2012 or 2013 in Lower Manhattan at a consignment shop. Even though I technically saved for it, I still could barely afford it. It was my first designer bag and I wore it every single day. I haven’t pulled her out in a while, but it’s one of those pieces that I’ll never get rid of.
What’s something you never leave the house without?
This may sound cheesy and cliche (especially under the given circumstances), but obviously sunglasses! Even if it’s a gloomy day, I make sure I have a pair in my bag because…you never know!
What do you think is the most underrated fashion trend?
Loving the rosettes I’m seeing around the necks lately! It’s been done before so it doesn’t feel too trendy. It feels fresh and makes me happy because I love flowers. I love when things circle back in a refreshing way!
Who is your biggest style inspiration right now?
Funny enough, I don’t think I have anyone I look up to for style inspiration. In the past I did, but I feel like personal style comes from within so it’s hard to see a celebrity’s style as “their own” when most are being styled by a stylist. I will say instead of celebrities I take more inspiration from others in the fashion industry whether it's content creators, designers, or editors. It’s more relatable and genuine.
Describe a perfect day off.
I appreciate the rainy days just as much as the sunny ones so the perfect day off would have to be a light thunderstorm, where I’m cuddled up on the couch with my husband and we’re just watching movies all day.
What’s your next travel destination and what are you excited to wear there?
I’m not sure where I’m off to next, but I really want to go back to London even though I was just there in May. It’s one of my favorite cities. Since I spend half of my time in Georgia, this summer I want to explore the state more. Maybe go up to the mountains, discover new beaches, or perhaps even explore around South Carolina.
What would be your advice to someone who’s just getting started in the fashion industry / content creation space?
Go for it! Don’t worry about what others have to say and don’t give up even though it’s going to be hard work! I think it’s easy for others to view content creation as not a “real job” or not a “hard job,” but at the end of the day, it’s just modern day marketing. There are days where I have one million things to do and emails to catch up on. People don’t see the backend of things. They only see the final result aka the photo or video posted to social media. However, what they don’t realize is that it took multiple emails, zoom calls, contracts, briefs, and edits to get to that point. So it’s going to be hard work and, yes, some days will be better than others, but if it’s something you’re interested in, put your all into it and go for it!
What’s your favorite form of self care?
I’m always down for a spa day! Specifically a good massage!
What’s your most exciting goal for the rest of this year?
With all of the house renovations that we’re doing, fingers crossed we’re done with everything by the end of this year! Other than the Moore x Aperçu capsule collection, finishing our house is my main focus!
What TV/streaming show are you currently obsessed with?
My favorites right now are: The Morning Show, Euphoria, and I just finished watching The Idol (which had so much potential, but was all over the place). I’m also obsessed with Survivor (thanks to my mother-in-law). My husband and I love watching The Amazing Race. Of course, I’m a true crime junkie. Give me any 5-part true crime documentary and I’ll watch it. I recently finished The Curious Case of Natalia Grace, which was a wild roller coaster of a story. Lastly, I would be lying if I said I didn’t love my Real Housewives.
What career advice would you give your younger self?
I would say keep doing what you’re doing! Be fearless, introduce yourself to everyone, and be kind. Don’t be afraid to go out by yourself and network. Little things like that will take your career a long way and I’m so happy I did.
What is your guilty pleasure?
I have a big sweet tooth and basically am a big 5-year-old at heart, so sour gummy bears have me in a chokehold. I can never say no to them!