Exploring the World of Vintage Fashion Magazines with Nygel Sartorial
In the enchanting world where nostalgia and style intersect, there exists a meticulous curator of time and trends—Nygel, a passionate magazine archivist. With an unwavering dedication to preserving the visual tapestry of the past, Nygel has immersed himself in the glossy pages of fashion history. His collection transports us to the vibrant epochs of the 90s and early 2000s, a period characterized by daring innovation and distinctive aesthetics. Through his curation, Nygel not only celebrates the captivating editorial fashion shoots of yesteryears but also captures the essence of an era that continues to influence contemporary design. In this exclusive interview, Nygel unveils the stories behind his journey as an archivist, shedding light on the allure of vintage fashion magazines and the art of reviving bygone trends.
Introduce yourself. Who are you? Where are you from or based?
My name is Nygel Simons, I am a fashion archivist and creative from South Florida.
How did you become interested in fashion archiving and styling? What inspired you to start your own platform?
It was a very organic process. I had so many pictures saved on my laptop from 2011-2016 and I started conceptualizing creating my own platform after Polyvore was shut down. But I believe my initial interest in fashion grew from watching my mother growing up. I lived in the mall growing up.
Can you walk us through your creative process when sourcing vintage editorials? How do you choose the magazines to archive, and find them?
Honestly, I don't have a formal creative process when it comes to sourcing for my archive. What you see is a personal curation of moments and things that I personally find interesting. A key factor in my decision to create my platform was that I was not aware of a platform that was producing original 90s/Y2K fashion content with a focus on black entertainers, black models and black publications. Building my magazine archive over the past 5 years has helped me extend my fashion & cultural knowledge, becoming another expensive hobby for me lol. But I'm grateful because I love learning. I love being a student on my own terms. And I typically source my magazines from eBay.
As a fashion archivist, what are some of the challenges you face in preserving and showcasing vintage magazines? How do you ensure their longevity?
I've been learning as I go. With growing over the years, I've been challenged with the constant need to upgrade the space and quality of my archive storage to maintain my level of organization and preserve the quality of the magazines over time.
Plastic sleeves for every issue and keeping them in a low, cool and dry space to start.
What are some of the most valuable or rare fashion magazines or editorials that you have come across during your career?
Many! I found Lil Kim's 1997 Paper Magazine Issue this month after several years of searching and I'm still in disbelief two weeks later. I also have a majority of the Honey Magazine Issues which are hard to come by.
“I know that people ultimately respect my taste and want to see the things that catch my eye so that keeps me grounded in staying true to myself and just doing me. I’m not really concerned with the algorithm or engagement anymore. I will attract the audience that is for me.”
How do you balance the preservation of fashion history with modern trends and audience preferences on your platform? Do you strive to maintain a certain aesthetic?
The content and knowledge that I share often reflect the fact that fashion trends are cyclical; there is nothing new under the sun. I don't try to maintain an aesthetic, I honestly for a time became a bit more self conscious of what I posted after seeing certain fashion figures following me, but I know that people ultimately respect my taste and want to see the things that catch my eye so that keeps me grounded in staying true to myself and just doing me. I'm not really concerned with the algorithm or engagement anymore. I will attract the audience that is for me.
What trends have you seen or witnessed in vintage magazine spreads that you see making a comeback today?
So many. Micro mini skirts and overall the way garments were cut in the 90s/00s has made a comeback (cowl neck dresses, square toe heels etc.)
Are there any specific eras or designers that you are particularly drawn to or passionate about? How do you incorporate these preferences into your work?
Of the past I love Tom Ford's Gucci, Lee's McQueen. Maurizio Galante, Cavalli & YSL, Galliano's Dior and 90s-00s Versace. Today’s designers - I love Maximilian Davis, Martine Rose, Theophilio & Wales Bonner.
I incorporate these preferences through my choice of content curation. I think people get a sense of my style from the content I highlight.
How do you feel about the current state of fashion editorials and journalism? Have you noticed any similarities or differences in today's fashion landscape in comparison to the 90s and early 2000s?
Today's fashion editorials need more funding, which I believe would elevate what I feel most of today's editorial is lacking, but there are so many creatives doing great work right now. I can say the same for journalism, I know journalism is dying somewhat with so many media outlets and publications closing but there are many writers in the space today doing amazing work.
What advice would you give to aspiring archivists and stylists looking to break into your line of work?
Everyone's path is different but put yourself out there, and always be a student.
What is next for Nygelsartorial (love the name btw)? Where do you see your platform going or expanding into?
Thank you! I'm not sure where life is taking me at this moment, but I know that I'm moving at an upward trajectory and you're going to see me doing more creative direction, styling and pieces definitely.
It is clear that Nygel’s work isn’t just mere preservation, it delves into the realm of artistry and what some would call, having a good eye. Through his dedication, we gain a renewed appreciation for the power of fashion magazines as time capsules of style, culture, and creativity. As we bid farewell to the editorial wonders of the past, we're left with the realization that fashion, like history, repeats itself, and Nygel's curated collection serves as a reminder that trends may come and go, but the essence of true style remains eternal.
All photos courtesy of @Nygelsartorial via Instagram.
