Blair Broll Sees Past The Surface

September 12, 2024

For the month of September, office partnered with Alpha Industries to highlight eight icons in New York culture. Each of our September cover stars has shaped the next frontier across fashion, arts, music, and beyond.

Our second September cover star Blair Broll is a casting director, artist, and frontwoman of the band Girl Dick. Starting her career at 19 as a model-turned-intern for a casting director that originally scouted her on the street, Broll has since cemented herself as a singular visionary and subcultural icon in New York’s downtown scene. As a model scout and casting director, Broll has lent her acute taste to countless editorials, campaigns, runway shows and more, with clients including brands like Fendi, Miaou, and Interior and publications like Purple, Interview, and, of course, office.

Notably for someone whose job could be grossly oversimplified as “finding pretty people,” Broll feels most fulfilled when she forms real connections with the individuals she scouts and casts. Her passion for understanding the people she works with sets her apart in an industry often solely focused on appearances. Despite the flashy rooms and larger-than-life personalities her work often surrounds her with — or perhaps, in part, because of them — she is remarkably firm about separating her self-worth and self-image from her accomplishments and looks. “As long as I make a positive impact on people interpersonally in my life,” she says, “that's enough for me.”

Interview Brook Aster
Photography Adam Powell
Styling Cassie Jekanowski
Talent Blair Broll wearing Alpha Industries MA-1 Heritage Bomber
Creative Direction Mitchell Connell
Videography JP Blair
Makeup Cassandra Lee
Photo Assistant Brian Karlsson
Video Assistant Ian Wishart
Creative Producer Liv Solomon
Production Assistant Sophie Collongette
Design Direction/Art Direction W—E Studio, Claudine Eriksson and Piera Wolf
Graphic Design W—E Studio, Hannah Nathans
Special Thanks to Joe & The Juice

Do you have any rituals?

The only ritual I have is praying. I usually pray in the morning and night, and I just think about what I'm grateful for, what [positive] energy I want to bring to myself and others.

What's your favorite place in New York?

My favorite place in New York is the beach in the summer — whether it's Fire Island or Jacob Riis. Like, even if it's kind of trashy, it's still fun.

I love being downtown. My favorite bar is Clockwork. I'm always there having a beer. And I love the West Village, it just still has an iconic super-gay feel. Going to Julius’ or Pier 45 is always super fun.

What is your go-to deli order?

My go-to deli order is an everything bagel with scallion cream cheese, tomato, onion and bacon, and hot sauce, and then some sort of caffeine, like an iced coffee or a Celsius.

I drink coffee in the morning, coffee in the afternoon. If I go out after work, then I drink a Celsius. The marshmallow flavor is everything.

LEFT: BLAIR wears MA-1 HERITAGE BOMBER JACKET by ALPHA INDUSTRIES, DRESS by GALLIANO, HEELS by DION LEE, JEWELRY by MARTINE ALI

RIGHT: BLAIR wears MA-1 HERITAGE BOMBER JACKET by ALPHA INDUSTRIES, TOP by SH4ME, SKIRT by DION LEE, RINGS by CHRIS HABANA, NECKLACE by CLAIRE WISEMAN STUDIO, BOOTS are TALENT’S OWN

If you weren't doing what you're doing now, what would your career be?

I would either be a firefighter or a pornstar.

Who is your go to person when you need a pep talk?

When I need a pep talk for anything life-related, if I’m struggling, I only will talk to my mom about it. I hate projecting and talking about that kind of thing with friends. I just think… get a therapist. So only my mom.

But if I need a pep talk for something work-related, I've been really blessed with great mentors like Rachel Chandler, Greg Krelenstein, and Kembra Pfahler, who always know exactly what to say.

How do you know when you see someone with potential?

I know I see someone with potential when I’ve actually gotten that chance to connect with them, understand them, and learn more about them.

In our industry nowadays, a star is a lot more than just their appearance. We're starting to really value people as more than a model, more than a face. We're getting into their background, their story, what else they have to offer, so I think it takes more than just looking at them.

It's rare to have that girl who is just at the top for being a model. It still happens — we have Anok and Vittoria, who've really made it that way. But I like when I really get to dive into someone, ask them about themselves, figure out what’s special about them. Connecting with other humans is important in our industry, and some people forget to do that.

I like when I really get to dive into someone, ask them about themselves, figure out what’s special about them. Connecting with other humans is important in our industry, and some people forget to do that.

How did you start casting? What was the path that led you there?

I started when I was 19, by interning for Ricky Michaels. I think I had gotten scouted by him, and then he had said, ‘I need an intern.’

I was like, cool, I'm gonna try this, and it just went from there. I started working with casting directors in New York and Paris, wherever I could get a gig, and make money, and I slowly started building my own clients.

What about the process do you find fulfilling?

I'm just a people-person, so getting to click with other people is fulfilling. I always hate when I see people in the industry treat people [as if they’re] super disposable, or forget about the human aspect, because, I'm like, why are you in this industry if you don't care about the human aspect?

When you get to do those really special projects, where it really is about storytelling and less just about filling a quota or a role or something like that, that's when it excites me, and it's worth it to me. Or when you get to put someone on, and have them share their voice, who normally wouldn't [have that platform], that's always still really super exciting to me.

You mentioned getting scouted. Do you model yourself?

I like to model if it's for Hedi Slimane or Lotta Volkova. Or if the check is really cute, then we can talk.

How does it compare to casting?

Well, the funny thing for me with modeling is that when I was 18 to 21, the ages where I would have been prime, that's when no one wanted me to model. Like, I was not cute back then.

I never could have been a traditional model. I was not female sample size, and couldn't have been with an agency. It wasn't really until I developed myself as a human and once I created a band, and started getting my career going, that I think people started booking me as Blair and not really as a model.

I think that made me value putting work into who I am instead of my appearance. I've never really cared about affirmation for my appearance, but way more about what I can bring out there.

I like to model if it's for Hedi Slimane or Lotta Volkova. Or if the check is really cute, then we can talk.

When did you start making music?

I had just made music for fun after I graduated college. My best friend was always in bands while we were in school, and I was like, oh, we won't be in school together every day, so let's do a project so we can keep hanging out. And so that's how I started my band with her.

What brought you to New York originally?

College brought me to New York. I grew up in Missouri, and no one from my high school went to college in New York. But I’m grateful to have had a teacher who was like, “you need to not go to school in Kansas City. You need to branch out and try somewhere else.”

I didn't even know what Parsons was, but I applied to every art and design school, and they gave me the best scholarship. And it got me here. It just seemed like a way better quality of life for myself, so I stuck it out here.

How would you like to be remembered?

I would like to be remembered for making positive impacts on other people's lives. I think I don't really care as much about success or getting to a certain point in my career, because I have seen a lot of the people who are at the top, especially in fashion, usually have to sacrifice certain things and morals that I'm not willing to. So as long as I make a positive impact on people interpersonally in my life, that's enough for me. I'm happy with that.

What does New York mean to you?

New York is really energetically exciting. You can always walk down the street and see life. I've been here seven years, and people are like, “it's not like it used to be!” But no matter what, I still find new and exciting people and stories and connections with other humans, that is unlike anywhere else I've been in the world. It's always going to be special to me.

Fashion

Colin Jones for SRVC SS25

October 24, 2024

Does a woman's vulnerability signify a lack of strength? Ricky Harriot, creative director of SRVC, would argue otherwise. The SRVC SS25 collection hinges on the idea that these two forces can coexist in harmony. Colin Jones, American model and it-girl, serves as the face of Impression, a collection designed for the modern woman.

The SS25 lookbook, captured by Tom Blesch, presents an invitation to question preconceived ideas about strength. Harriot reinterprets staples like the ribbed tank and corset, blending timelessness with a futuristic edge. This thoughtful deconstruction provides wearers the freedom to adapt the pieces to their lives — promoting self-styling as a form of personal expression and empowerment.

By Abby Dillingham
Photography by Tom Blesch, styled by Dogukan Nesanir

Anchored in emotional resonance, the collection draws from utilitarian and protective elements, merging them with soft, flowing fabrics that speak to the complexity of feminine strength. By refusing to confine itself within traditional gender expressions, SRVC champions a woman who is unapologetically both strong and vulnerable, urging her to embrace every facet of her identity. Preview the lookbook below.

Fashion

It All Starts with the Feet

October 23, 2024

We hit the road with APICCAPS, the Portuguese Footwear Association, for an adventure that took us deep into Portugal’s fashion scene. From Porto’s historic streets and factories to the dynamic runways of ModaLisboa in Lisbon, we got an up-close look at the creativity and craftsmanship behind modern Portuguese design.

Our host shone as a true superstar of the trip, Paulo Gonçalves — Director of Communications for APICCAPS and the mastermind behind Portuguese Soul print magazine. He made sure we didn’t miss a beat, From the factory visits to the sleek, sustainable designs at Lemon Jelly to the handmade luxury of Carlos Santos Factory, and even a dinner with the celebrated shoe Designer and APICCAPS president Luís Onofre, we saw it all. The trip wasn’t just about shoes though; it was about everything that makes Portugal special — great food, amazing wine, and the stories of the people driving the industry forward.

Text and photos by Mitchell Connell

APICCAPS presentation at Modalisboa

At the Portuguese Footwear Technological Center (CTCP), we saw how tradition blends with cutting-edge tech. And, of course, we couldn’t miss the shows at ModaLisboa, where emerging Portuguese designers are taking the spotlight. There was even time to squeeze in a few after-parties.

As we left Lisbon’s sun-soaked streets, it was clear: Portugal is no longer fashion’s best-kept secret. With its rich heritage and creative visionaries, this small country is stepping into the global spotlight — and office Magazine was there to witness it. We learned that “Made in Portugal" isn’t just a stamp; it’s a mark of quality, tradition and innovation.

Between the factory tours and ModaLisboa, we got a full view of both sides of the industry — and we left wanting to learn even more from our host.

Paulo Gonçalves

Paulo, so great to chat up with you after such an amazing trip. First off, congratulations on launching the new cover of Portuguese Soul and thank you for such an unforgettable experience. From the factories to the runways there was a lot to take in. Is there a personal highlight or moment that sticks out to you either at ModaLisboa or in Porto?

Paulo Gonçalves— There were so many moments. The anxiety of meeting a new group. The moments of bonding. The first dinner together. The visit to the factories and the Technological Center. The Portuguese Soul presentation at ModaLisboa. The Luís Onofre fashion show. Being able to present the cities of Porto and Lisbon through my eyes. The farewell.

I feel that the mission was accomplished. The work was productive. There were many shared laughs. And I feel like I’ve gained friends for life.

As Director of Communications for APICCAPS, Why did you find it so important to start the magazine?

PG— For a long time, I felt there was a big gap between the intrinsic quality of Portuguese footwear and the global awareness of our country. The fact that people didn't know us devalued our product.

Back in 2010, I launched a very controversial, yet impactful campaign called ‘Portuguese Shoes: The Sexiest Industry in Europe’. That jumpstarted the change in our image. Portuguese Soul emerged shortly after -it was our contribution to improving Portugal's image worldwide. That's why the magazine is distributed in 120 countries. It is also a testament of love for Portuguese fashion and footwear, as well as a showcase of the talent that exists in my country.

Where is your happy place in Portugal?

PG— I travel a lot, so I would say home. But there is a unique place in Porto, the lighthouse that separates the Douro River from the Atlantic Ocean.

During the trip, it was clear that sustainability is becoming a big part of Portugal’s fashion DNA. Do you think this will become the country’s key advantage?

PG— Every year, 22 billion pairs of shoes are produced worldwide, with 88% of them made in Asia. I don’t think that’s reasonable or sustainable. I believe there is room in the market for a small producer that focuses on quality at fair prices.

For this reason, we are going to invest 600 million euros by the end of this decade. It’s our biggest investment ever and a strong show of confidence in the future.

Why do you continue to do a print magazine in 2024?

PG— Because it makes sense. I believe we still have much to prove and that we must constantly reinvent ourselves. I believe we can be leaders, not followers.

Next year, the magazine will celebrate its 15th anniversary. We want to do even better. More than 50 professionals work with us. It's a big responsibility.

Do you have a favorite Portuguese dish?

PG— Without a doubt, codfish. Accompanied by a good white wine, whether from Douro, Dão, or Alentejo.

You’ve been a part of APICCAPS for over two decades now. What has kept you there and passionate for so long?

PG— I am a passionate person who loves fashion and shoes. I enjoy socializing, discovering new cultures, and having the opportunity to meet incredible people. I feel like I’ve dedicated my life to the footwear sector, and I’ve never regretted it. I have given everything to this industry and to APICCAPS but I’ve also received a lot in return and have been able to explore the rest of the world.

What role do you think Portuguese designers play in shaping the global fashion landscape?

PG— It’s a fundamental vision. While companies have the technology and know-how accumulated over generations, designers bring a fresh, young, and bold perspective to the market.

I am a strong advocate for creative partnerships between designers and the industry. That’s why we invest in being present at ModaLisboa, as well as at other important fashion weeks like London, Paris, and New York.

Away from Sustainability. What’s going to be a big innovation that will change the game for Portuguese fashion?

PG— Productive innovation, development capacity, and a quick response to the market are some of the main competitive arguments of Portuguese companies.

What’s your most prized fashion possession?

PG— Shoes. Always shoes. And in this chapter, I am privileged. I have the best of all. The Portuguese.

If you could feature anyone past or present in Portuguese Soul, who would it be?

PG— We’ve had the opportunity to showcase the greatest Portuguese talents in Portuguese Soul and there’s always an opportunity to discover more. From music to theater, and across fashion in general, a new generation of great value is emerging in the country. Portuguese Soul will always provide a stage for all these young people who are full of dreams.

Before we wrap this up. What’s next for you, APICCAPS, and the magazine?

PG— I want to be able to maintain the same emotional wavelength in life, at APICCAPS, in the magazine, in everything I do. I fall in love again every day with those around me and with what I do. Being able to enjoy life surrounded by good people and good energy is a privilege I will do my best to preserve.

Fashion

LOEWE Dreams Americana

October 22, 2024

LOEWE's SS25 pre-collection campaign, shot by Juergen Teller, plays with the tension between individuality and stereotypes in a series of playful studio portraits. Featuring talents like Ambika Mod, Ayo Edebiri, Baifern Pimchanok, Drew Starkey, and more, the images pair creatives with quirky characters—rugby players, knights, ballroom dancers, and even bodybuilders. Each pairing feels both deliberate and spontaneous, creating unexpected contrasts.

With Americana-inspired menswear and sleek, elegant womenswear, the campaign leans into odd combinations and humor. JuergenTeller’s sharp eye brings these fashion moments to life with a twist on traditional portraiture, blending dry humor and whimsical styling. The result is a vibrant study of identity, blurring the lines between the individual and the archetypal.