Ian McRae: NYC Fashion Stylist on Storytelling and Inspiration

Updated May ⁢26, 2025

New York City fashion stylists often embody resilience, demonstrating a daily commitment to their craft. Through their expertise, they imbue artists and individuals with influence and symbolism. Ian McRae, a stylist originally from Tallahassee, Florida, stands out for his unique vision and storytelling approach.

McRae said his work focuses on “storytelling ⁢and character-building through the lens of fashion,”‍ collaborating with brands to articulate their message.

McRae’s interest in fashion began in his youth ⁣with a interest for MTV and magazines. Even though he ⁣initially considered ‍a career in politics, he ultimately pursued his creative passions at‍ Florida A&M University, where he studied public relations and engaged with fellow creatives.

After moving to New York City, McRae interned at public relations firms before assisting stylists, including Ian Bradley. Over a decade later,⁢ he has established himself in the industry and was⁢ honored by the British Fashion Council for his contributions.

McRae’s work, whether with artists like Moses for New York Magazine or in indie publications like Just Smile and Fantastic Man, showcases his talent. He often⁤ styles men, portraying both their masculine and feminine sides, offering a unique perspective often absent in mainstream media.

His styling for Vogue, featuring Julez Smith in a Wales Bonner suit, and Sampha in a puffer coat for New York Magazine, exemplify his⁤ ability to use clothing⁤ to tell vivid stories.McRae’s approach involves “world-building of texture, color, movement,” focusing on the feeling the talent embodies in the clothes.

Looking ahead, McRae aims to use his platform to support younger designers and those aspiring to⁤ work in fashion, advocating⁢ for a more sustainable and inclusive industry.

McRae said he wants to “do more outreach‍ and have⁣ more of ⁤an active appeal of⁤ changing⁢ the ‍way we see fashion.”

McRae said his fashion origin story began with an addiction to MTV and inspiration from magazines. He said he didn’t initially aspire to be a stylist, but rather fell into the role after moving to New York‍ City with other career aspirations.

McRae said he has “always wanted something bigger” than his surroundings in Tallahassee, Florida, driving ⁣him to seek opportunities ‍in New York City.

McRae said⁤ a recent commercial ⁣project with Jordan aligns with his aesthetic vision. He aims to create cohesive commercial and editorial work that supports each ⁣other.

McRae’s creative process involves mood boarding, drawing inspiration from various sources,⁣ including magazines and references from the 1970s to 1990s. He collaborates with photographers ⁢and talent to develop a mood that informs the styling.

McRae said his approach ‍is similar to that of a costume designer,focusing on storytelling and cohesion throughout a shoot.He aims to use fashion to build characters and convey a message, emphasizing questions over final outcomes.

McRae admires brands like Jonathan Anderson, Martine Rose, and Grace ⁤Wales Bonner for ‍their world-building ‍and ⁣slow progression, creating a wider narrative of what brands stand for.

McRae ⁤said he is optimistic about emerging designers in the⁢ New York fashion market, noting the captivating things⁤ they are doing to reshape how we look‍ at and wear clothing.

McRae highlighted Puppets and Puppets,Our⁢ Legacy,and Auralee as brands that are slowing down consumption while⁢ still feeding the machine in an ‍authentic way.

mcrae described receiving the British Fashion Council award as humbling, emphasizing his focus on the work itself rather ⁤than social fame.⁢ He expressed appreciation ⁢and⁣ gratitude for the recognition after years of independent work.

What’s next

McRae plans to continue using his influence to support emerging talent and advocate for a more sustainable and inclusive fashion industry, aiming to reshape perceptions of fashion and its impact.