Jalil Johnson
Since 2023, the New York-based stylist Jalil Johnson has captivated a growing audience with his Substack newsletter, Consider Yourself Cultured. Johnson, who graduated from New York University in 2021, finds inspiration everywhere. Autumn’s falling leaves, for example, spark a poignant reflection on the shedding and wearing of layers—followed by a visual parade of the writer in looks executed with equal parts eccentricity and expertise. This combination of curiosity, sensitivity, and daring is quickly becoming Johnson’s signature style.
How would you describe your style?
Preppy, eclectic, joyful.
What is currently inspiring you? Sartorially, culturally or otherwise?
I just finished Marisa Meltzer’s book about Jane Birkin, and I realized how little I actually knew about her life. I learned so much. What struck me most was that when it came to her fame and the projects she chose, she never strayed far from her comfort zone, which feels refreshing to read in a time when we’re constantly told that success requires pushing past it. Also, I ended up buying a cape after seeing her wear one in the movie Slogan.
Can you describe the process of building out the collection and the work that you did with At Present?
The process of building my collaboration with At Present was such a joy. I remember coming to the first design meeting with seven different directions before we narrowed it down to three solid ideas. When it comes to creating anything, I’m always referencing something vintage, but I also want to make pieces that I’ve personally been wanting in my own closet or that I truly haven’t seen on the market. There’s already so much out there, so I think it’s important to put something into the world with intention. Working with At Present deepened my love and passion for jewelry, and I’m hoping to keep exploring that through more collaborations. At the same time, I want to branch out into other categories and really build out the world of Jalil to show what that looks like in product form.
What is your current favorite shoe from Emme Parsons, and how do you style it?
I love the Elana Heel and the Parker Moccasin. What makes the heel so special is that it feels like a fresh update to what would otherwise be a classic 90s style, the subtly square toe is simply perfect. The moccasin is equally great because of its flat profile, which is my favorite kind of loafer; I love one with a slim sole. I think the key to styling both is having fun with the socks and tights you pair them with.
What is the best piece of advice you have ever received and why?
To listen to my gut. I think it’s an easy impulse to ask people what they think you should do, and I’m still guilty of doing that when I’m having a spiral. But even the person with the best intentions can only give you suggestions. It’s up to you to decide what to do, and most of the time, I think we already know the answer, we just have to do it.
When did you launch Consider Your Cultured and how did it come to be?
I launched Consider Yourself Cultured in early 2023 as a creative outlet from my 9-to-5. I decided to name it CYC because I wanted a space to talk about fashion, but I also didn’t want my job to easily find it, so the name became a kind of playful misnomer. Over time, I’ve realized that the way I talk about and view fashion isn’t in a vacuum, it’s deeply influenced by culture… so maybe it wasn’t much of a misnomer.
Favorite gift to give
Monogrammed treats like a bathrobe.
Favorite gift to receive?
Anything monogrammed, haha, or jewelry.