OKDEON: An Interview with Deon Hinton
When I first met Deon Hinton, I was received with the most genuine “Hello” and introduction. There are few people who have the gift of sharing a sense of care with just a simple greeting. After being welcomed so graciously, I started to discover Deon’s keen talent for creating content, photography, and personal style. Working with the likes of Christian Dior & Calvin Klein, Deon has been able to create a variety of creative content that further embodies his personal style. His spirit is one of tenacity, resilience, and earnestness. A cursory glance at Deon’s Instagram reveals that he is a purveyor of positive energy, but his energy isn’t strictly relegated to social media. In-person, Deon is every bit as zealous and heartwarming, a man imbued with an infectious charm that makes even the sourest human smirk. Be sure to read the rest of our interview with him below to discover more.
Name: Deon Hinton
Age: 21
Location: New York, New York
Occupation: Content Creator
For those who aren’t familiar with you, could you introduce yourself & what you currently do?
“My name is Deon Hinton. I’m a 21-year-old content creator, creative director and model based in New York originally from Fayetteville, Arkansas.”
When did your interest in fashion begin and what was the catalyst for it?
“It began in the 6th-grade in middle school. During this time, Sperrys, Polo Ralph Lauren, Vineyard Vines, and many other name brand companies we're extremely prevalent in my school. Being bullied throughout most of my life, I just wanted to fit in. I really wanted friends and more importantly, I just wanted to feel like I was a part of something. In my quest of wanting to fit in, I began to want to dress like those surrounding me obviously, but my family struggled financially so none of these were options for me. Considering this, I began to grow into myself and I realized that fashion was endless and limitless, and even beyond these brands that I had no connection to. So then I began to find my style, and in turn, began to find myself.”
What was it like growing up in Arkansas?
“Growing up in Arkansas as a young black boy in a world that essentially despises you, ironically enough molded me to be the person that I am today. I was raised by a single mother who had me at 14, and above all circumstances that we faced, I always felt that there was more to not only the world for me to see but also to myself.”
What was your motivation to move to New York & what are your favorite things about living/working in the city?
“I had never been on a plane before. I had never been to New York before I moved here. I just knew that this was the place for me. I knew that this would be the place where I would find myself, whatever they may have look like to me at the time.
My favorite things about living/working in the city would initially be the beautiful people that I've encountered here. There are so many different backgrounds and molds that we all were given at one point in time, and I feel like New York is a huge Melting Pot for those here who have felt excluded from their homes, families, from society. Another one of my favorite things about living in New York is the opportunities that are born here. There are endless opportunities for self-growth, for career opportunities, but more importantly for finding one’s true self. What I love about the city is that it is at times very unforgiving, but it's in those moments that we are able to come together and unite, no matter where we come from.”
Your social media presence has a variety of amazing editorial work but also some uplifting & motivational posts. What is your view of social media and why do you stress these messages?
“Social media, initially for me, was a sense of escape from my reality. On Instagram, no one saw me as the kid that was struggling to eat sometimes or suffering from depression. No one saw that kid. I began to produce content that made me happy, and in that, I began to get feedback on how ‘inspiring’ and beautiful my work was. Social media changed my life and I’m grateful that I’ve been blessed with a platform that allows me to give back and touch others, whilst creating visions that I’ve set forward. I stress my messages because I don’t see a lot of creators or “influencers” doing so. Especially growing up, first starting off on Instagram, I didn’t see any black men talking about mental health, vulnerability, and overall softness. I want to be that person that I needed when I was growing up, and with everything that is going on in the world today, I will continue to produce a safe space for any and all to come and feel heard and seen.”
What is it like to work with brands from the likes of Calvin Klein & Dior?
“It’s funny because it’s a blessing that “work” with the brands and fashion houses, doesn’t feel like work. I truly look at it that I am blessed to create with my family. I say this on set often, it never feels like work, maybe because I love what I do, not sure. I’ve always dreamed of working with these clients that I’ve had the opportunity to, manifested even. It’s just beautiful to see life come full circle for me.”
It seems you have been doing some traveling lately- what has been your most recent favorite place you have visited and what place are you looking forward to going next?
“My favorite place I’ve visited was Mykonos–– there’s such a rich history in this country. Tokyo is a super close second. I’m looking forward to Paris again in January, really missing the bread.”
What are some of your go-to pieces in your wardrobe currently?
“My go-to pieces currently consist of a trench coat I thrifted in Brooklyn. I’m able to either dress it up or dress it down, which I love. Also, my (Margiela) Tabi’s have made more appearances here recently, a chic silhouette that I’ll always be in love with.”
What are some of your favorite brands at the moment and why?
“Jacquemus, Ader Error, Vuitton, and CK (205) are some of my favorites at the moment given the tones, minimalistic silhouettes and just overall tasteful pieces have really drawn me in.”
What upcoming projects are you currently working on?
“Working on many upcoming exciting, meaningful, special projects :)”
Lastly what advice would you give to yourself or to others?
“No matter how far you go, I pray you always come back to yourself. And in the midst of dreaming, speak what you seek until you see what you’ve said.”