Today we’d like to introduce you to Samuel Vazquez.
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
Since I was a kid, I knew I belonged in fashion or beauty—I just didn’t know how to get there. Growing up in a traditional Mexican household with immigrant parents, the dream was for me to be a nurse, cop, lawyer… you know, the “safe” stuff. But none of that ever felt like me.
I did a year at community college, juggling gen ed classes and a job at a sandwich shop, feeling completely stuck. I knew I was wasting my time not chasing what actually lit a fire in me. Then I found The Fashion Institute Of Design and Merchandise, fell in love, and somehow convinced my dad to let me enroll—even though the price tag was wild. I quit the sandwich gig, dove into their Visual Communications program, and scored a visual merch job at Forever 21.
I stayed there four years, moved on to Macy’s, and got fired for bad attendance (real talk). That’s when I pivoted—started experimenting with makeup, posting looks online, and picking up freelance gigs. I was broke, depressed, and trying to keep my head above water. Picked up a part-time job at a sunglasses shop, but dipped when I got the chance to work as a personal stylist for a big influencer. That moment? Game-changer.
Then boom—COVID hit. Everything shut down, but those unemployment checks were hitting, and I knew I had to flip that blessing into something bigger. I’ve always wanted my own brand, so I went for it.
Iconic Punk was born in 2020—and it made noise fast. Influencers were rocking my pieces, word spread, and suddenly I was running a real business. I had no team, no blueprint, just hustle. And I kept going—even when it was hard, even when I doubted myself.
Four years later, this is my full-time job. Iconic Punk is still growing strong—you can catch my pieces on icons like Cardi B, Danna Paola, Winnie Harlow, and more. I’m not even close to where I want to be yet—but I’m locked in, and I know exactly where I’m headed.
This is just the beginning. Now watch me build an empire.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
The road’s been anything but smooth—more like a nonstop rollercoaster. Highs, lows, and a whole lot of moments where I questioned everything. There were times I felt like I wasn’t enough, like I was chasing something impossible. The pressure to make my parents proud? Heavy. And honestly, I’ve hit some serious low points.
But one thing about me? I’ve always known I’m built for more. Even when I didn’t have a clear path, that fire inside never died. I might not have known how I’d get there—but I’ve always known I’m destined for something big. Greatness isn’t a maybe for me. It’s a matter of time.
As you know, we’re big fans of Iconic Punk . For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about the brand?
Iconic Punk is a unisex jewelry and apparel brand built for the bold. We’re not here to play it safe—we’re known for our loud, flashy, over-the-top pieces that are anything but subtle. The vibe is rebellious, edgy, and full of attitude.
Our mission is simple: we want people to stop blending in and start owning their look. We encourage self-expression through fashion—no rules, no apologies. What makes us different is we’re not just selling jewelry or clothes—we’re selling a whole aesthetic, a mindset. When you wear Iconic Punk, you’re not just accessorizing—you’re stepping into your power.
One of the dopest moments so far? Seeing our pieces on celebs. Like, these are people I looked up to—and now they’re rocking my designs. That’s surreal. But it’s also just the beginning.
Do you have any advice for those just starting out?
My advice? Trust your gut and chase what really lights you up. Don’t do it for clout, don’t do it for a check—do it because you’re obsessed with it. Passion is what keeps you going when things get rough—and trust me, they will get rough.
The journey’s not gonna be smooth. You’re gonna hear “no” a lot. Doors will close, people will doubt you. But if you stay locked in and keep showing up, the right ones will open—and they’ll change everything.
And forget competing with anyone else. Many will try to replicate what you do but just know the paste won’t be the same. Your only competition is you. There’s more than enough space at the top—you’ve just gotta be bold enough to claim it.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.iconicpunk.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iconic_punk?igsh=NTc4MTIwNjQ2YQ%3D%3D&utm_source=qr
Image Credits
Photographer: Randal Ruiz
@randalruizz
Models:
@quintoncolemann
@stxnjay
@izaaiah
@milajamilex
@javentinoo
@__mystylist
@jaredesg
@jsenya
