Photo: Jac Vanek (Claire Oring)
It’s hard not to be inspired by Jac Vanek. At the young age of 23, Vanek has established herself as a multi-hyphenate to be reckoned with: designer, stylist, music enthusiast and social activist. Her black and white statement bracelets and eponymous clothing line have become an iconic fixture of the music scene, resulting in high-profile collaborations with We The Kings, Cobra Starship and NOH8, to name a few. And she’s just getting started.
Act: You've said your first music concert completely changed your life. Tell us about your journey from cheerleader to emo kid to fashion designer.
Jac: It's really just a journey of self-exploration that has been completely fueled by music, and it's one I'm still on. Going to my first concert was my first realization of the pure honest desires of my inner self. I knew from that moment on that my heart belonged somewhere within the realm of the music world. Since then, I think I have somehow managed to fuse the music and fashion worlds together to create a lifestyle and career revolving around my biggest passions.
Aside from music, what's the inspiration behind your designs?
I pull inspiration from everywhere and everything! Traveling and exploring light my soul on fire, so I feel like everything I create has an adventurous vibe to it. Many of my designs are inspired by certain books, movies, television shows, beliefs, conversations and other aspects of pop culture that have made an impact on my life.
You've collaborated with a lot of big artists, from Miley Cyrus to All Time Low. How do you decide who to partner with, and who do you want to collaborate with in the future?
Collaborations are one of the most exciting aspects of the line for me. Every collaboration I've done has been initiated by the other party, so it really shows who wants to support and involve themselves in what I'm doing. Many of the collaborations I've done have been with friends, so it always feels good to work on something that is mutually beneficial with someone you care about. I would love to start working with some more indie artists, like Mumford & Sons, Bon Iver, Beirut, Fleet Foxes, etc. That would be absolutely AMAZING!
Your clothes and jewelry have been geared toward the music scene, but another big part of the brand is being involved with some really awesome causes. What are some you've worked with?
I've worked with a number of nonprofits that are near and dear to my heart: Invisible Children, NOH8, PETA2, Open Our Eyes and Just Tell, to name a few. The fact these causes approached ME is extremely humbling, so I try to use my influence in a positive light to help spread awareness and knowledge for them.
Is there a specific cause or issue you're particularly passionate about?
It's hard to choose a single cause over another, because the individuals who make them all possible are all so incredible and inspiring in completely different ways. But I have to say that I am extremely passionate about gay rights, so being involved with the NOH8 campaign was incredible for me. Spreading LOVE is limitless.
What's your advice for teenagers who want to start their own business or spread awareness about a cause they're passionate about?
No matter what you want to do...whether it's to create a clothing line, or become a photographer, or start a nonprofit, or become a writer, you HAVE to believe in yourself. There will be kicks in the ass, and there will be obstacles, but you just need to remember that that's how life goes. You can make a difference, and you can succeed, you just need to REALLY believe it.
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Check out Jac's bracelets and support one of the many causes.
