"FASHION HOLDS THE POWER TO DRIVE CHANGE"
From my very first role in fashion, I've witnessed the profound truth in this statement. Fashion isn't static; it's a force of evolution, a catalyst for transformation. It's about taking an idea and twisting it, reshaping it from every angle. As a fashion designer, my role isn't just about creating; it's about adapting.
At heart, I'm a kid who finds endless inspiration in cartoons and pop culture. There's something universally relatable about them. There is something hopeful about any conflict resolving itself in 30 minutes or less. Think back to childhood days—sick days, weekends, moments in the doctor's waiting room—cartoons were always there, playing in the background. We dress up as our favorite characters for Halloween, we hum the tunes from their films; they're woven into the fabric of our culture and identity. Yet, at the end of the day, they're just animated characters—mice, rabbits, ducks, dogs—bringing us joy and laughter.
In recent years, my passion for sustainability in fashion has grown immensely. As designers, we bear a responsibility to be mindful of the impact of our creations, both in terms of production practices and materials. It's about finding sustainable alternatives to traditional materials, reimagining our approach to fashion. Textile waste has become a primary material in my work since transitioning to sustainable fashion. I'm fascinated by the ability to craft one-of-a-kind pieces from discarded fabrics. Moreover, the emerging trend of regenerated materials within our industry is incredibly exciting. Faux fur crafted from corn waste, nylon derived from ocean-bound plastic—it all comes back to adaptability. That's the key.
- Gamalier Calderon; Creative Director
From my very first role in fashion, I've witnessed the profound truth in this statement. Fashion isn't static; it's a force of evolution, a catalyst for transformation. It's about taking an idea and twisting it, reshaping it from every angle. As a fashion designer, my role isn't just about creating; it's about adapting.
At heart, I'm a kid who finds endless inspiration in cartoons and pop culture. There's something universally relatable about them. There is something hopeful about any conflict resolving itself in 30 minutes or less. Think back to childhood days—sick days, weekends, moments in the doctor's waiting room—cartoons were always there, playing in the background. We dress up as our favorite characters for Halloween, we hum the tunes from their films; they're woven into the fabric of our culture and identity. Yet, at the end of the day, they're just animated characters—mice, rabbits, ducks, dogs—bringing us joy and laughter.
In recent years, my passion for sustainability in fashion has grown immensely. As designers, we bear a responsibility to be mindful of the impact of our creations, both in terms of production practices and materials. It's about finding sustainable alternatives to traditional materials, reimagining our approach to fashion. Textile waste has become a primary material in my work since transitioning to sustainable fashion. I'm fascinated by the ability to craft one-of-a-kind pieces from discarded fabrics. Moreover, the emerging trend of regenerated materials within our industry is incredibly exciting. Faux fur crafted from corn waste, nylon derived from ocean-bound plastic—it all comes back to adaptability. That's the key.
- Gamalier Calderon; Creative Director
Gamalier "Gam" Calderon, the Creative Director of House of Gam, founded the organization in 2014 shortly after graduating from high school. It quickly evolved into a platform dedicated to spotlighting emerging and underrepresented fashion designers, offering them a conduit to reach a broader audience.
The blog extensively covered notable fashion events and designers, both locally and internationally, contributing significantly to the exposure of lesser-known talents. At the conclusion of each year, House of Gam orchestrated annual fashion shows, meticulously produced, directed, and marketed by Gamalier and his devoted team. Beyond their artistic significance, these shows carried a philanthropic mission, with a portion of the proceeds or in-kind donations directed toward various charitable causes.
In June 2018, Gamalier transitioned into the role of Style Editor at LaPalme Magazine, a Los Angeles-based fashion publication. This new position provided him with opportunities to collaborate with renowned national and international brands, further enriching his industry expertise.
In addition to his editorial and styling endeavors, Gamalier has fervently pursued his passion for theater, particularly focusing on costume design for local productions in Tampa, FL. In 2021, he assumed the position of Wardrobe Supervisor at Williamstown Theater Festival, marking a return to his roots in the theater world and reigniting his fascination with the narrative power of clothing. Throughout his tenure at the festival, he adeptly managed the wardrobe for four notable productions, including "Border of Lights" and "Michael Arden's Alien / Nation."
Following his relocation to New York City in 2021, Gamalier seamlessly immersed himself in various theater productions, showcasing his versatile expertise.
Currently, Gamalier continues to diversifiy his portfolio across film, television, theater, and fashion projects, all while dedicating time to the development of his eponymous brand. Presently, he holds the position of Wardrobe Supervisor for "The Welkin" at Atlantic Theater Co.