Puerto Rican fashion designer Mass Luciano is the man behind the exciting fashion line MASSBRANDED, a brand that celebrates men who champion individualism, boldness, and the desire for attention.
With over fifteen years of experience in the fashion industry, Puerto-Rico-born Mass Luciano studied at the Fashion Institute of Design & Merchandising in Los Angeles and has worked with international brands including Guess, Rock & Republic by Victoria Beckham and Lee Jeans.
In 2015, he was named Mr. Gay Hong Kong and then won the title of Mr. Gay World. The achievements inspired Mass Luciano to chase his other dreams, including the launching of his energetic namesake streetwear label, MASSBRANDED.
His brand of high-end men’s streetwear has become known for pushing boundaries and leaving nothing—and everything—to the imagination. “I aimed to capture that same confidence and optimism in this summer’s collection.” The sixth collection from MASSBRANDED draws inspiration from athletes and the pursuit of excellence in mind, body and will represent elite sportsmanship.
“The idea of a man setting his mind on the prize, pushing himself to the limit and reaching for the stars is very empowering,” says Mass. He goes on to recall, “As a kid, my parents would sign me up for basketball, baseball and soccer. I wasn’t an athlete, but I loved putting on the uniforms. Each had a unique look and functionality that I admired.”
In MASSBRANDED’s Collection No. 6: Sixth Dimension, Mass Luciano creates a universal uniform that mixes street and sportswear, elevating the looks with tailored construction and just the right amount of sex appeal. Mass took inspiration from sports like basketball and fencing and even from space travel and extreme sports. Mass even designed a Flight Jumpsuit that embodies the high risk and drama of action and adventure by combining mesh with micro nylon stretch twill and contrasting piping and zippers.
Get to know more about this innovative designer as Mass answers the Socialite Seven.
What made you decide to launch MASSBRANDED?
My partner challenged me by asking me one day, – “If you were to launch a brand, how would you do it?” So, I took my years of experience as a designer and put it to work on MASSBRANDED. It’s been 6 years since we launched our first collection and it’s pretty awesome that we’re still going strong.
What fashion trend are you least fond of?
Laziness. Make an effort, there is no excuse. We’re spending more time at home while social distancing, but we should still take care of our appearance. If you look good, you’ll feel good, so brush your hair, fix your face, and dress for yourself! Laziness is not a good look!
What do you think the future of fashion holds?
All fashion rules will be blurred beyond recognition. Unisex or Genderless styles will lead the way to the eliminations of sexual stereotypes. It’ll be exciting to see fashion evolve after the pandemic.
Who has been the biggest influence on you in your career so far?
Diana Vreeland, the OG empress of fashion. She had a flair for storytelling through fashion and style. I have read many books and watched documentaries on her life and career as Vogue‘s Editor in Chief. She was bold, daring, and original and I try to embody that spirit and attitude in my work.
What talent would you like to wake up with tomorrow?
I wish I could sing like Yma Sumac… a true diva!
What are three things you can’t live without?
Eye drops, face masks, and lube. Whenever you’re in need of them, they usually are a lifesaver!
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve been given?
Trust your instincts, follow your gut, and listen to your heart.
MASSBRANDED Collection No. 6: Sixth Dimension is available exclusively at MASSBRANDED.COM. Follow MASSBRANDED on Instagram @mass_branded
