with Victor Barragán
When I heard about Donald Trump last weekend, I couldn't wait to ask you about it. What was your reaction?
Victor Barragán – Best performance artist of the decade.
What’s according to you the best product of American culture?
VB – TV.
You’ve said that you like to challenge yourself in every collection and show. What are you working on at the moment and what are the current challenges?
VB – I'm working on the new season. Financial struggles are always an issue.
Your approach to Barragán’s collections has changed quite a bit in the last few years. The designs have become more straightforward and you've adopted a more memetic, conceptual language.
VB – I'm really proud of my latest work over the past two years. I've had more freedom to express myself without the noise and unsolicited opinions. The fashion industry changes too quickly, just like the culture. People want merchandise without deeper value, living moment to moment. It's vapid and has inspired a new way of thinking, but it's also scary at the same time.
Within this framework, which three pieces best describe your path?
VB – Meth tee, Barragán Bullets, and B-Virus Crucifix.
You are known for having a strong and solid work ethic but nonetheless, I was wondering if you have ever wished to take a break.
VB – Taking a break from the fashion industry can be a healthy and empowering decision, especially if you've faced exploitation and disillusionment. Starting young, it's easy to fall prey to those who take advantage of inexperience. By stepping back, you can focus on healing, rediscovering your passion, and finding new directions that align with your values. Reflecting on your journey and setting boundaries can help you regain a sense of control and purpose. It's okay to prioritize your well-being over fitting into a demanding and often unforgiving industry.
What do you think is your worst flaw for those who love you or work with you?
VB – Stubbornness with freedom.
I read somewhere that one of the reasons why you began making silk-screen T-shirts using the name YtinifninfinitY was the impossibility of affording the clothes you desired, I’d love to know more about the early days of your brand and your fashion influences.
VB – I started my brand when I was sixteen in high school. I was the manager of my friend's band, which involved dressing them, finding gigs, and feeding them estupefacientes. It was a fun era of freedom. My fashion icons have always come from movies and music, often as irreverent or angsty responses, but the villains always dress the best.
Victor Barragán – Best performance artist of the decade.
What’s according to you the best product of American culture?
VB – TV.
You’ve said that you like to challenge yourself in every collection and show. What are you working on at the moment and what are the current challenges?
VB – I'm working on the new season. Financial struggles are always an issue.
Your approach to Barragán’s collections has changed quite a bit in the last few years. The designs have become more straightforward and you've adopted a more memetic, conceptual language.
VB – I'm really proud of my latest work over the past two years. I've had more freedom to express myself without the noise and unsolicited opinions. The fashion industry changes too quickly, just like the culture. People want merchandise without deeper value, living moment to moment. It's vapid and has inspired a new way of thinking, but it's also scary at the same time.
Within this framework, which three pieces best describe your path?
VB – Meth tee, Barragán Bullets, and B-Virus Crucifix.
You are known for having a strong and solid work ethic but nonetheless, I was wondering if you have ever wished to take a break.
VB – Taking a break from the fashion industry can be a healthy and empowering decision, especially if you've faced exploitation and disillusionment. Starting young, it's easy to fall prey to those who take advantage of inexperience. By stepping back, you can focus on healing, rediscovering your passion, and finding new directions that align with your values. Reflecting on your journey and setting boundaries can help you regain a sense of control and purpose. It's okay to prioritize your well-being over fitting into a demanding and often unforgiving industry.
What do you think is your worst flaw for those who love you or work with you?
VB – Stubbornness with freedom.
I read somewhere that one of the reasons why you began making silk-screen T-shirts using the name YtinifninfinitY was the impossibility of affording the clothes you desired, I’d love to know more about the early days of your brand and your fashion influences.
VB – I started my brand when I was sixteen in high school. I was the manager of my friend's band, which involved dressing them, finding gigs, and feeding them estupefacientes. It was a fun era of freedom. My fashion icons have always come from movies and music, often as irreverent or angsty responses, but the villains always dress the best.
Interview Daria Miricola
Photography Victor Barragán
Excerpt from Issue No. 5 (2024). Read the full interview by ordering your copy here.