Jonathan Cohen

...I am so lucky to be able to to do what I love

Jonathan Cohen was born and raised in San Diego, California by Mexican Parents. He developed his technique and eye whilst attending Parsons School of Design in New York. It was in New York where he ultimately found his artistry, which came from the dimensional influence of subculture, construction and music. Whether it’s the classic rock concerts his father took him to as a young child, the bright eccentricity of Mexico City, or the way the surfers in his hometown wore their wetsuits - each influence presents itself in Jonathan’s work. His woman is equally bold, elegant, and rebellious. During his time in and out of Parsons, Jonathan worked along various designers such as Oscar de la Renta, Doo. Ri Chung, Ashleigh Verrier, and Patricia Field.

Nothing inspires me like…
Music. I always have my headphones on with whatever I do. Music has always been a crucial influence in my work.

I hope…
To have a lasting impact on the fashion industry. Also, I would love to travel and see more of the world. Diversity and different cultures are so inspiring.

Cultural influences…
I grew up in a small beach town where seasons did not exist. West Coast style was always relaxed and easy. New York definitely gave me a harder, more modern edge. I really try to infuse this into my designs. I want everything to have an easy, throw on feel, but still be cool and forward. I definitely think my bold sense of colour comes from being influenced by my Mexican culture.

I got where I am…
The continuous support from my family and friends. Of course, a LOT of hard work.

Fashion can sometimes…
Be draining! It is definitely a tough industry, and sometimes that is putting it lightly. However, I am so lucky to be able to to do what I love. Sometimes when you care about something so much, it just cancels out anything remotely negative.

My vice is…
I bite my nails. It is a terrible habit, but I’ve done it all my life so far so don’t think it’s stopping anytime soon.

I have never…
Been skydiving. It is something I really want to do someday.

My first crush…
Mark Wahlberg! He is still so fine.

My mum…
Is the most amazing woman! She is the strongest and most determined woman I know.

Cake makes me…
Really happy. MOMOFUKU in NYC makes the most amazing cakes. I always offer to get the cake for any of my friend’s birthdays because it’s so good!

I'm a perfectionist…
To a fault when it comes to my work

I suck…
At singing! I took a few voice lessons when I was young. My teacher had me record myself during a session. I played it back when I got home, freaked out, and never went back. Sometimes you have to know how to walk away. I gave my sister my next session.

Creativity comes from…
Somewhere deep within. People ask me a lot where my ideas come from. Sometimes, I don’t even know, they just come to me. An idea or concept can come into my head and then it just doesn’t stop poking me until I bring it out!

I tried to live…
In Santa Cruz, California when I graduated high school…I lasted 2 months. I’m a big city type of guy.

My goal…
Is to keep creating work that inspires people and to stay sane in the process!

Jonathon Cohen on NJAL