Out fashion designer, style guru and media influencer Matt Sarafa, who became one of the youngest designers to show at both New York and Paris Fashion Week, is launching a new line.
After taking a break to regroup after his initial success on TV shows “Project Runway Junior” and “Real Housewives of Beverly Hills,” Sarafa, 21, is set to take things to the next level with Ri¢h, which recently hit the catwalks during Los Angeles Fashion Week.
“This is my re-debut back on the scene,” Sarafa said. “I sat out the past two seasons to really focus on getting my money right and running with the success of the ‘Real Housewives of Beverly Hills’ exposure. This line is inspired by the red faux fur that started this whole journey. You’re going to see a lot of red in the collection. It’s edgy street wear. It’s going to be really hot, and I can’t wait for you to see it.”
Sarafa said the initial exposure from reality-TV shows has given him an edge when dealing with the pressure of trying to make a name for himself in the competitive world of fashion at such a young age.
“The fashion industry is definitely cutthroat. I try to stay in my lane as much as possible. ‘Project Runway’ got me comfortable with the time crunches and all the drama of the fashion world. That’s a great asset that I have under my belt.”
His designs have already attracted the attention of celebrities and fashion icons. Sarafa said his clients are enamored with his clothing, so he keeps his aesthetic consistent to keep them happy.
“They reach out because they enjoy and appreciate my own personal style,” he said. “We did looks for Tyra Banks at the end of last year. I cater towards the celebrities, but I bring my sense of flair to it.”
As a high-profile, young and out figure in the fashion world, Sarafa said he makes time to serve as a role model to aspiring young creative people who reach out to him looking for advice. In 2016, when Sarafa was applying to colleges, he made headlines when he called out a Brown University interviewer for homophobic comments.
“I’d like to think that everything I do is inspiring for younger people, especially young gay boys,” he said. “When I was growing up, I didn’t have someone like myself to look up to. So I’m trying to be as authentically myself as I can be. I get [direct messages] on a daily basis from young LGBT kids who have seen me on TV and on social media. So that is always good to know that what you’re doing is having a meaningful impact, especially on the youth.”
For more information on Matt Sarafa, visit http://mattsarafa.com.