Today we’d like to introduce you to Gary Bowie Jr.. They and their team shared their story with us below:
Gary Dean Bowie Jr IG: CassiusGray68 | SilverInkGentlemen
Talent Manager: ConcreteRose Talent Management
Meet Gary Bowie, who is—among many things—CEO and founder of SilverINK.Gentlemen. Born and raised in San Antonio, Texas, Gary has come to have been known as a trailblazer in style and fashion since grade school. He’s always had an eye for distinguished looks and loved mimicking the styles in GQ Magazine. Gary is a lover of all living things and believes that every living creature deserves a chance to LIVE and be loved. He’s well-known as an entrepreneur and business professional who wears many hats. Gary enjoys ripping the runway and being an advocate for seasoned men in the modeling industry. Gary is the first official MXFFIN MAN title holder. The LXVE MXFFIN brand is host to Texas-made beauty products, a media company, and recently expanded its vision to include the annual MXFFIN MAN Contest, the first of which took place in August 2023. Winning the title means Gary is a key brand ambassador for the LXVE MXFFIN brand. Not to mention having modeled for the upcoming 2024 calendar. Gary is a pillar in the community and has made his mark in fashion in San Antonio and surrounding cities. Gary is also a brand ambassador for “Rock, Paper, Denim” by designer Matthew Smith III. Likewise, he’s modeled for Dillard’s, Robert Graham, and more. When he’s not styling a client, modeling, shopping in Zara (his favorite), or working in the community, he can be found nestled with a book or enjoying the outdoors. His zest for life keeps him young at heart, and it’s radiantly apparent through his glowing skin!
At 55 years old, Gary Bowie has cultivated an adventurous career, one anybody would love to experience. Moreover, he’s played a key role in paving the way for more inclusion in the Texas men’s fashion industry, proving that silver is beautiful and sophisticated, and we need to see more of it in all the spaces! “I was 9 or 10 years old when I got into fashion. My uncle had a subscription to GQ Magazine, and I would always look at the models and was highly intrigued by how they mixed and matched patterns and colors. Some of my influences were Richard Gere, Pat Riley, and Billy D. Williams. In high school, I was nominated best-dressed by my peers—this ignited the stylist in me. People would always ask where I bought my clothes from or if I could help them put together their looks. My Dad also influenced me to get into fashion. He stayed sharp.” When it comes to modeling, Gary says, “My cousin inspired me to get into modeling. She was a model and did a lot of print work, and I would go to her fashion shows. Sometimes I would be asked to escort the ladies onto the runway, so that started my interest in runway modeling. My mother was also an influence as she was current on the latest fashions.
I started modeling because I got so many compliments on my clothing, so it intrigued me. One day someone suggested I check out “TeenBoards”, so I did and was cast for the back-to-school teen boards for Dillard’s and Joske. We’d stand in the mall for hours modeling back-to-school attire. That’s where it all began. From there, I knew this was a passion. Life happened, and I took a break until I ran into a gentleman named Matthew Smith III at one of my favorite stores. He suggested I consider getting back into modeling, and the rest is history. To this day, he’s one of my good friends. My niche is styling and the ability to put looks together out of whatever is in your closet. I can do everything from simple attire to the most prestigious looks.” Utilizing what his clients have on hand makes Bowie a sustainable stylist as well. That’s so important in today’s climate, as everyone is focused on reducing their carbon footprint.
Back on the subject of wearing many hats, fashion isn’t the only thing on Gary’s mind or in his toolkit. “Professionally, I’ve been in the banking industry for over 20 years in leadership. Personally, I enjoy bike riding, working out, hanging out with my dog Roscoe, and chilling with my family and friends. Lastly, I enjoy window shopping and scrolling through magazines for current fashion and trends for outfits and inspiration in styling.” He lives a well-rounded life that keeps him busy. Gary’s experience in the fashion industry in Texas: “Locally, my experience has been great. I think I’ve been welcomed with open arms. Modeling is multi-generational; I found my lane in the industry and went with it. When I say my lane, I think I have a universal appeal, but because of my mature look, I am favored by the grown and sexy crowd. I feel seen and included; I’m getting more exposure. Some designers have a concept of how they want their clothing presented, and I’ve been fortunate for those designers to take a chance with a mature gentleman to capture their look.”
With popularity comes a degree of power in sovereignty. And since power means responsibility, Gary is currently in the process of putting together a platform called SilverINK.Gentlemen. Giving homage to the Silver Fox Squad who has created an avenue for silver “mature” men to make their mark in fashion. I respect the work they’ve done. SilverINK.Gentlemen is a platform for men across the globe who pride themselves on being chivalrous, respectful, professional entrepreneurs and role models in the community. SIG is a group of men over 40 who stay active, model, create platforms for men in fashion, and give back to the community. Community work is the CORE of who we are.”
Having just won the coveted title as the official MXFFIN MAN of Texas, Gary says this “The MXFFINMAN embodies someone who is confident, fun, impactful, adventurous, and a unique stylish individual. For example, the MXFFINMAN is likely up to date on current events, exhibits a healthy lifestyle, and is an all-around good person to be around. I think events like this create comradery, networking, and an opportunity to expand your brand to the community.”
Stay tuned as Gary prepares for the launch of the “SilverINK.Gentlemen in 2024”.
Gary is a renaissance man who lives by this mantra, “Be unique, and never lose your individuality.”
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
For the most part, the road has been smooth. It’s always a challenge in your mind, wondering if your time has passed to pursue your dreams, but I am living proof that it’s NEVER too late to pursue your dreams and use your gifts.
We all have a different way of looking at and defining success. How do you define success?
Success for me is utilizing my gifts to make an impact in the world and my community. SilverINK.Gentlemen is a huge stepping stone in that direction, and I’m excited to share it with the world in 2024. Fashion and community impact are two focal points of SilverINK.Gentlemen.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://linktr.ee/gbowiecollection
- Instagram: @cassiusgray68 | @silverinkgentlemen
Image Credits
Lee Gore of SmalKine Media
