EMERGING DESIGNER

Michael Benjamin Volkar

IN THIS FEATURE: Meet Michael Fashion Focus

Michael has had extensive experience in the fashion world, having been personal designer for actor, Vincent De Paul, personal tailor for R&B recording artist, Faith Evans and design assistant to Merlin Castell of the popular Bravo television series, The Fashion Show. His fashions and designs have also appeared in a film titled, "Crabs in a Barrel".

Michael Benjamin Volkar on Fashion

What has been your biggest fashion faux-pas?

I’d say it would be when I was in 6th grade…I went through a “rebellious” phase and wanted to become a white rapper ala Eminem. So I thought to be tough I should get a leather jacket….instead I bought a pleather vest overtop of my old pokemon tshirts. Electric does not even begin to describe that era hahaha.

If you could only shop at one store, which would it be?

...the grocery store hahaha, no really…I don’t believe in starving artists.

If you could change one thing about your closet, what would it be?

That it would be bigger than my apartment.

Survival of the fittest: What is one item in your closet that you will never get rid of?

leather boots with the 2 inch thick heel. 'Cause surrounded by models…I always feel short haha.

If you were given the opportunity to have a famous designer revamp your entire wardrobe, who would you choose?

Alexander McQueen….R.I.P.

Name an actor/singer/celebrity whose wardrobe you admire the most.

Honestly not many, because they almost all use stylists and rarely use their own personal style. No judgment, just not inspirational. That being said…one artist I know does style herself and has the utmost respect for fashion…Victoria Beckham. Very admirable and wonderful woman.

What are your best and worst fashion purchases?

Let’s start with the good. Best purchases would be shoes…since I haven’t taught myself how to makes those yet. Worst purchase….I think we should return to 6th grade when I chose a pleather vest.

Who makes your favorite pair of jeans? Shoes? Dress or Suit?

jeans: Enzo. Shoes: Cole Haan. Suit: Unknown Japanese designer found at a garage sale.

If you had to describe your personal style in one word, what would it be?

Memorable.

If you could bring back any fashion trend, what would it be?

High-waisted anything….love it.

If we could take a peek into your personal closet, what would we find?

Lots of empty hangers…because today is laundry day haha.

MyCloset.com Speaks

Michael Volkar's designs are imaginative, inventive and inspired. We love his original approach to fashion and how he uses a vast array of textures, fabrics and colors to create his splendid designs.