Our member spotlights are a chance for us to show off the taste and style of members within the Seasons community. This week, John Exley shares his love for Italian couture, pickup basketball and the distinct feeling of putting on a new piece of clothing
What do you do for school/work?
I am a VC at CASSIUS Family. We invest in early stage consumer internet startups and brands with the promise to shape tomorrow's culture. In life, I practice loyalty and study the long game.
How long have you lived in New York City?
This fall will be my eight-year anniversary.
What is your favorite season?
Fall!
How would you describe your taste in clothing?
Somewhere between Italian couture and paying homage to my inner-city roots of Rochester, NY.
What influences your style?
Growing up, it was the combination of the show "ESPN Streetball: The AND1 Mixtape Tour" and my first love: playing basketball around my home city. Then, I had the opportunity to spend three weeks in Italy during my freshman year of college and fell in love with the timeless heritage of Italian sprezzatura.
As a tradition, I always turn to my style heroes for inspiration. I have seven of them, and from today til forever, I think I'll be influenced by every single one: Marcello Mastroianni, André 3000, Luca di Montezemolo, Domenico Gianfrate, Kid Cudi, G Baby's uniforms from the movie "Hardball", and Fabolous' scenes in the music video for Lil Bow Wow's "Basketball".
Who are some of your favorite designers/brands right now?
My favorite designers are Recho Omondi from OMONDI and John Elliott from John Elliott. I also love Ermenegildo Zegna and anything Nate Brown thinks is official.
How has quarantine affected your relationship with clothing?
Wardrobe withdrawal. Style separation anxiety. I miss the rest of my clothes that I left back in my apt when I flee'd NYC!
How long have you been a Seasons member for?
Since day zero, and til ∞.
How would you rate your membership with Seasons so far?
Receiving and wearing Seasons has been a feeling I can only describe as putting on a cloak of confidence while swimming in a pool of happiness. So, a 10/10. Chalk this up as my unofficial love letter!
Do you have a particular favorite piece from the Seasons catalog?
I do: the midnight navy Vester belted coat from Dries Van Noten, in a size Large. Been keeping that in rotation.
Any fashion or non-fashion related thoughts you'd like to share?
Treasure your family while you have them, stay fly, and tell your crush how you feel.
