WHAT YOU WEAR WITH BORASIFICATION
Can you introduce yourself for those who may not have come across your blog and Instagram feed before?
Hi, I’m Boras, I founded the blog borasification.com in 2014 while I was working in digital advertising. It grew and got bigger, and I launched my Instagram account (@borasification) a few years after that. My only goal has always been to share a lot of outfits and ideas around volume, military, workwear and Japanese inspirations. I have created a style philosophy #streetheritage that represents an idea of fashion as a mix of vintage clothes/inspirations with a modern vibe. Something close to what was the original streetwear philosophy: playing with what you find. My friend Jordan joined the Borasification team a year ago to help me transform and grow our media which led to the launch of our Youtube channel and recently our Pinterest account.
I also have my own brand, Borali. We create jewellery from upcycled fabrics and we are currently working on different pieces of clothing. Finally, I’m also a stylist for Arashi Denim and several other brands which developed 'By Boras' lines and products that I design. Maybe the thing I prefer actually.
What did you expect when you first started posting menswear looks on social media and the Borasification blog?
To be honest nothing, haha. My journey began on fashion forums in the early 2000s and when they started to disappear, my brother, who was a famous French blogger back then told me; “Bro, stop complaining and keep the mindset you like in forums alive with your own blog”. The story started like that, the night of April 14, just because I enjoyed sharing outfits.
Has clothing and style always meant a lot to you?
I grew up in the 90s and I fell in love with basketball when I was really young. There was something special in its aesthetics and the culture around it. My parents couldn’t afford to buy me sneakers and clothes from Nike or other 'cool' brands so until I could save money style was more in my head and less in my outfits. I really discovered my style in 2006 using fashion forums and Ebay. I probably spent more time on these platforms than on my work for school during these years, but it was worth it in the end!
Did Paris have an influence on your style growing up?
No, Paris has never particularly inspired me. The only thing I could say is that it’s easier to do what you want with your style there (but it depends on what you do for a living too). I started living in Paris in 2011 and what I liked could not really be found there at that time. The rising interest for heritage brands is something pretty recent. Same for loose-fit silhouettes (slim fit has never been my cup of tea!) My influences have always come from what I was able to find on pre-owned platforms in Japan and eBay.
Paris has its well-known destinations but do you have any recommendations for hidden gems?
After Covid19 and multiple lockdowns, Paris has become less important in my life, I don't tend to spend much time in the city. If I had to pick out something in Paris I enjoy then it would be the jewellers in Saint Paul: Gilbert Gilbert. I love the jeweller's unique work on silver and the shop feels very warm and cosy. A great spot to have in mind if you are searching for either rings, bracelets or necklaces. My advice if you come to France and spend some time in Paris would be to take 2/3 days to go to le Perche. It’s in the countryside, less than 2hrs from the capital, and is a great break from the craziness of the city. You have a lot of forests, lakes, and if you like digging for antiques and vintage stuff it’s the place to be! Plus, that is where I am from, so I always feel at home there!
How did you first come across Admiral Sporting Goods Co.?
It must have been on Instagram if I remember well. I was looking for a heavy crewneck with a vintage vibe. The only ones that looked good at that time were in Japan and the US, hard to find and expensive. I wanted to find a nice alternative for my readers and myself. And I found Admiral Sporting Goods! I think I also have an old memory about Eric Cantona with a jersey (That's true, Admiral made the Leeds United kit in 1992 which was worn by Cantona)
What do you like most about the ASGco. pieces you've picked up?
All of your jersey pieces, from crewnecks to track pants. The fit is well-felt and everything is well-crafted. Definitely enjoy the fabrics as well. You have a full range of very good options to mix with military and denim pieces.
Colours are really important when you build an outfit if you want to create nice combinations and harmony, and I find that the different shades on the Admiral Sporting Goods website definitely bring something to the table.
Are there any Admiral items you’ve got your eye on?
I took a look at your AW22 collection and I saw really nice new things. The green and yellow long sleeve stripped tee ‘Gowan’ rocks. I particularly enjoy the new green hoodie and crewneck too. The Chartwell Quarter zip top in buzzard blue may be my favourites too with its small collar and zip.
What are you following on Instagram at the moment?
Tough question because there are a lot of gifted people I follow. But If I had to pick one, I would chose: Nikko_ala. He has a small account and doesn’t post a lot but every outfit is very unique, a pure expression of his own style. The talented Yuthanan is also someone I have been following for quite a long time!
Recently I've found Instagram has become more a practical tool to follow brands and stores and network. Basically to help me with my day to day work and keep up with what is going on everywhere.
What does the future look like? Any new upcoming projects?
I have a lot of projects going on with the media, my brand Borali and upcoming collaborations. But the big news is the launch of our own e-shop this fall, which will be an expression of the street heritage vibe we defend. And why not create something together, that would be crazy!
