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[title]Gabe Alonso has an affinity for sophisticated suits, casual streetwear and collectible sneakers, creating a fashionable look that is both laid-back and polished. When he’s not taking advantage of the daily deals on Gilt, he frequents Carson Street Clothiers and scores deals on ties and pocket squares from the Tie Bar.
Gabe Alonso, 27, marketing communications manager for Gilt; @Gilt, @GiltMAN, @gabealonso
How his job influences his style: “I’m certainly always on my toes. When you work with well-known dapper gents, you have no choice but to up your game. At the same time, it affords me the opportunity to take risks without feeling like I’m wearing a sartorial scarlet letter.”
Favorite thing about social media: “Social media has been an amazing tool, both personally and professionally. My favorite part is the ability to talk to so many people and create connections with strangers all over the world.”
Least favorite thing about social media: “It never turns off. You enter this industry knowing that you have to be on 24/7 because Facebook and Twitter don’t sleep. It can be a bit overwhelming at times, but the pros have so far wildly outweighed the cons.”
His personal style: “It’s classic with a twist. I consider guys like Gene Kelly my style icons, I’d love to one day have that same level of effortlessness and confidence with my attire. And while tailored wear is great and I wish I had more of it, I’ll never give up my Air Force 1s.”
Favorite piece in his wardrobe: “I’m Cuban and my heritage means a lot to me. So when my grandfather passed away and his Pierre Balmain vintage guayabera was passed down to me, I felt like I had received a small treasure. The shirt itself is so thin it’s become sheer in most places and a few buttons have fallen off, but I’ll never stop wearing it.”
His signature accessory: “In the fall, it’s definitely my hats. I have a great Bailey’s porkpie that I love to wear, and this past New York Fashion Week I bought a Borsalino. It’s super mafioso—the wide brim is practically out of the ’20s—and I love it.”
Fashion tip: “Since I’m on the short and stocky side of body types, I tend to have to spend a significant amount of money on tailoring. Most often, I incorporate that cost into a new piece before buying it. Fit is everything. Learn your measurements and find a great tailor. It can make your outfit look like a million bucks.”
Style motto: “Just be yourself. Don’t be afraid to take chances and experiment.”
Favorite fall trends: “Geezer chic: because now I can wear all the tweed I want without feeling like a college professor or a bad imitation of Indiana Jones. Also, there were lots of military-inspired features coming out of the European shows this year. From epaulets to double-breasted officer coats to interesting uses of camo, there’s a sense of masculinity and ruggedness in the pieces.”
On his fall shopping wish list: “I’m late to the party on this one, but I am absolutely going to get a leather jacket from Schott. I mean, if you’re going to get a leather motorcycle jacket, you may as well go with the guys who invented the silhouette.”