Meet Derek, born in Washington D.C., raised in Bangkok, and now full-time in New York City working in films and production.
Derek's move to New York wasn't planned. Feeling burnt out in Bangkok, he was ready for a change...which naturally led him to the city. His trip started as a reset, but ended up with an official move. “It ended up being a place where I learned and grew—not just in business, but as a person too.” Eleven years later, he’s still here.
His relationship with Jacques Solovière has evolved over time. He first came across the brand on Instagram, then began noticing it through friends—seeing it worn and styled in real life. He finally bought his own pair and starting working with Jacques Solovière himself. His collection reflects that evolution: Alexis All Black, Hady Micro Bicolor Black, Biarritz Maracca, Fleurus Khaki Oiled, and Steve Jumbo Black—each pair fitting into different moments of his everyday life.
If translated into music, his Jacques Solovière would lean toward Herbie Hancock—fusion jazz with a sense of rhythm, balance, and playfulness. “Timeless, but still creative and modern. Minimal, but with a little cheek and fun to it.”
When asked about his favorite places to film around the city, he talks about how the rooftops of New York always have a special vibe, and if he could pick one place to film for the rest of his life, it'd be there. As for where to go at golden hour and a good spot to eat, he points to DUMBO, by the river for "a view that never really gets old."
Outside of work, his days are dedicated to relaxing. "Smoking a joint and just walking around the neighborhood, or stopping by the record shop around the block." Allowing the day to pass without a plan.
When we were with Derek in the city, we got to live the real New York experience!
Photographer: @mariloudaube
Assistant: @christophermorel
Art Direction: @jacquessoloviereparis
