The Stitch: Zay’s Slays

Marcus Falcão / THE GATEPOST

Bella Omar / THE GATEPOST

By Bella Omar Asst. Arts & Features Editor This Wednesday The Gatepost celebrated the 21st birthday of Izayah Morgan, our illustrious Opinion Editor. His expressive blend of streetwear and high-end silhouettes has made him a noteworthy style guru on campus - here’s what your favorite CIE Diversity Peer Influencer has to say about his wardrobe. Who are your biggest style inspirations? Definitely some of my favorite NBA players, like Allen Iverson from Philadelphia. More recently it's been a lot of rappers like Tyler, The Creator, Smino, Young Thug - also, he's home from prison now. So that's a good thing. How would you describe your personal style? I think it's very adaptable. It can fit whatever I need it to. So if I need a more casual look, I’ll do a fitted hat, a hoodie, sweat pants - I can do that. But if I need to look more professional, I’ll put on a turtleneck and blazer - I can also do that. I would describe my style as flamboyant. But I usually go for the neutrals. So obviously, black or white are the first layers, and then I try to put on a cream, brown, or gray and try to go along with it. I really dislike bright colors. They're just a little overstimulating for me, so that's why I tend to go with more neutral tones. Walk me through today’s outfit. My dress shoes are from Steve Madden. These black slacks are from Macy’s, and then I got this turtleneck from Banana Republic. This coat I’m pretty sure is from Michael Kors. I top it all off with my Apple Watch! I wanted to expand my style to look more presentable. I like a tailored, fitted look. And when I was trying it on at the store, I was like, “Damn, I feel really good in this.” When I was younger, I didn't really like tight-fitting shirts. I still usually don't. But for something like a turtleneck or a cardigan, I was looking in the mirror, and I was like, “Gosh, I love this fit right now.” Where do you usually shop? Macy’s - their clothes are very affordable, and they have all the cologne that I love too. So I can get everything in one place. I usually wear Polo Ralph Lauren, 1 Million by Paco Rabanne, and sometimes Valentino. For my shoes, it's usually Foot Locker or Journeys. If you could give out one piece of style advice, what would it be? Do what fits you. Don't conform to what anybody else’s style is. I mean, obviously, draw inspiration from other people, right? But at the end of the day, you gotta be by yourself. So if you don't like what I personally wear, don't mimic that. [ Editor’s Note: Izayah Morgan is Opinions Editor for The Gatepost. ]