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Jason Wagg Worked for Tom Ford and Now Helps Young Menswear Designers Succeed

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For this week’s Worn Out Wednesday, Jason Wagg, co-founder of THE ENSIGN, speaks to us about his career and personal style:

I grew up in New Mexico in a culturally rich environment. Exposure to a strong artistic community and beautiful landscapes gave me an appreciation for art– both the created and the naturally occurring. My first career choice was as a musician, but I worked in retail to pay bills and fell in love with fashion. I worked my way up the chain of department stores until I finished college and moved to New York City, where I was privileged to work at Tom Ford, which was my dream company. I spent a few years there before moving on through some consulting (which I still do) and learning everything about digital the hard way at a digital marketplace.

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When I moved to New York City, I didn’t know many people, so I made it my mission to find every bar, club, and restaurant worth going to. So I spent a good chunk of my first three years going out four nights a week. That’s how I made most of my friends here and how I met my business partner, who was at Ralph Lauren at the time. He came to me with an idea to start a fashion business and we worked for two years to refine the idea and build the relationships we needed to launch THE ENSIGN.

Jason Wagg and Luis Nico Morales Founders of THE ENSIGN/Facebook Image used with permission by copyright holder

As for my personal style:

Jeans: I’m obsessed with my 3×1 M3s. Great company, great designer, great jeans, and Made In America. I still miss Rogan though…

Shirts: Deveaux Tencel Tees (long or short). I love a classic tee layered with nice slacks or great jeans and a killer statement jacket.

Pants: Nomad Pant from GARCIAVELEZ. Great combo of easy fit with elevated touches and goes with everything.

Suits: Tom Ford Classic Grey three-piece. I got addicted to the fit and fabric while working there. Still my favorite for sentimental reasons (and the fact they look so damn good).

Shoes: I have tough feet to fit so anything that actually fits is my favorite. Lately, I’ve been really impressed by Rancourt Classic Court Low.

Accessories: I don’t wear hats but if I did, it would be something from Gigi Burris, who is just releasing a mens line. Giles and Brother is high on my list for jewelry. I love this 2-tone version of a safety pin cuff.

Outerwear: I’m really into trucker jackets and this Krammer & Stoudt version is my new go-to.

Favorite cologne: Private Label by Jovoy. The perfect signature scent for me and distinctive without being overpowering.

Favorite app: Twitter. I’m also a huge Slack fan.

Favorite piece of technology: AppleTV. Should be my phone but I love the flexibility across multiple devices.

Next style/gear purchase: Hopefully, the next release from No.One. /Otherwise, I’ve been drooling over this Deveaux Suede Hoodie.

Cator Sparks
Cator Sparks
Former Digital Trends Contributor
Cator Sparks was the Editor-in-Chief of The Manual from its launch in 2012 until 2018. Previously, Cator was covering…
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