By: Penny Black
In the sprawling metropolis of New York City, where dreams are as vast as the skyscrapers that touch the sky, Jacqui de Jong carved out a niche for herself in the competitive world of fashion. Without a single acquaintance in this bustling city, Jacqui’s story is not just about making it in New York; it’s about transforming solitude into a vibrant career that has since caught the eyes of many. It all began with an Instagram account and an unexpected friendship with Gabe Araujo, a fashion photographer whose vision helped launch her into the spotlight.
Gabe Araujo wasn’t just any photographer; he had an eye for capturing the essence of Manhattan’s diverse neighborhoods – from the avant-garde architecture of Hudson Yards to the quaint charm of West Village, and from the artistic alleys of Chelsea to Soho’s luxurious boutiques. He suggested that Jacqui use these locales as canvases for her fashion shoots. Dressed in an array of outfits ranging from elegant long dresses and sophisticated pantsuits to edgy blazers paired with tall boots, Jacqui began to embody the spirit of New York City fashion.
Their collaboration was more than just about taking photos; it was about telling stories through fashion. Each neighborhood brought out a different facet of Jacqui’s style, which she describes as a blend between vintage charm and modern boldness. “As I kept uploading the photos to my Instagram account, things sort of just gained traction and people were interested in what I was wearing,” Jacqui shared. “I do have this kind of unusual style where I’ll take like vintage and then sort of blend them with modern details like boots or striking bold colors.”
This unique approach to fashion quickly garnered attention on social media platforms such as Instagram (@jacquibabydejong) and TikTok (@jacquibabydejong). What started as an endeavor to make friends turned into an organic growth of followers who admired her empowering looks and bold choices. Her digital footprint expanded further with her website (www.jacquidejong.com), which became a portfolio showcasing her versatility as both a model and a style influencer.
The buzz around Jacqui’s distinctive style soon transcended social media boundaries, propelling her onto the runway shows at New York Fashion Week. Here, she walked for high-profile brands such as Donny’s Angel and Elizabeth Munoz Atelier, names synonymous with luxury and innovation in New York’s fashion scene. These collaborations marked a pivotal moment in her career, cementing her status not just as an Instagram sensation but also as a respected model in one of the prestigious events in the fashion industry.
Jacqui de Jong’s journey is emblematic of how passion, when pursued earnestly, can open doors to worlds previously unimagined. From solitary beginnings to strutting down runways and starring in campaigns for renowned brands, her story is one that inspires aspiring models worldwide. It emphasizes not only on talent but also on the importance of authenticity and building meaningful connections.
Her narrative also underscores how modern technology, especially social media can be leveraged creatively to showcase one’s talents and create opportunities that might not have existed otherwise. In doing so, Jacqui has become more than just a model; she has emerged as an influencer who encourages others to embrace their unique style narratives boldly.
As we follow Jacqui de Jong’s continuing evolution within the eclectic tapestry that is New York City’s fashion scene, one thing becomes abundantly clear: hers is a tale not merely about finding success but creating it through resilience, creativity, and genuine love for self-expression through fashion. In reflecting upon her meteoric rise within such a competitive industry, we are reminded that sometimes all it takes is one person believing in your potential paired with your own relentless pursuit towards your passion to spark a journey beyond your wildest dreams.
Published by: Martin De Juan
