We play 20 questions with our ELLE compatriot, Joe Zee.
Pagination
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Any true fashion addict will immediately recognize ELLE’s Creative Director and stylist extraordinaire Joe Zee, if not from fashion shows and industry events then from his appearances on style-savvy TV shows including Ugly Betty, Stylista and The City. What you may not know is that this high-powered member of the fashion elite is actually a Toronto native and proud UofT alum (where he studied psychology, sociology, philosophy, etc. before moving on to FIT).
If you’re dying to know how a fashion magazine is put together (and don’t mind a little drama along the way) catch Joe and his team on the new season of MTV’s The City, which airs on Wednesdays at 10pm. If, on the other hand you’re curious about the man behind the Creative Director, look no further. Despite a busy schedule that included New York Fashion Week, London Fashion Week and Milan Fashion Week, Joe managed to find time between shows and flights and appointments to tackle our infamous questionnaire and give fashion fans the complete A to Zee.
What is your idea of perfect happiness?
Having the weekend off and sitting on a beach somewhere. With no email messages!
I’m one of those workaholics who checks his Blackberry in the middle of dinner and movies.
If you could choose an occupation other than your own what would it be?
A dancer. I've always loved dance but didn’t have any training at all growing up. I picked it up casually a few years ago after working with artists like Justin, Beyonce, Jennifer Lopez and Janet Jackson and seeing them move. Now I'm obsessed with mastering all styles of hip-hop! My fave is LA hip-hop — it’s more smooth and fluid and syncopated. I’ve even learned a b-boy trick or two!
What do you like and dislike most about being on The City?
I like showing what we do at the magazine on an ongoing basis. I dislike revealing the mystery behind how we put the magazine together.
Who is your style icon?
Kurt Cobain because he didn't care one bit about what he wore or chasing trends but he had a huge impact on pop culture and an entire generation of people. When you talk about fashion in the 90s, grunge and Kurt are the first things that come to mind. He made wearing thrift store as important as wearing designer. My only regret is I never got to meet him.
What are the 3 things Joe can't live without? Find out on the next page ...
Need some fall fashion inspiration? Check out our fall fashion guide
