Julien Cahen is our latest and most James Dean-like subject thus far. Though slightly less American than Dean, Julien hails from the French countryside. His style is laid back yet polished, and always unique. He is currently living in and enjoying Athens culture and all it has to offer in the way of food, music, and entertainment. This week we find out about his influences, some things he just can’t live without, and the best advice he’s ever gotten. And scroll down to hear a playlist of his favorite songs!
How would you describe your personal style?
I’d say its a balance between rugged and refined. I look to classic movie stars like Sinatra, Clark Gable and Cary Grant. Not down to every detail of their dress, but their essence and how they carry themselves. I’m influenced by the spirit of the American gentleman. Growing up, my dad loved watching American Westerns. Stars like John Wayne and Clint Eastwood were strong, confident personalities. I’m a fan of the gentleman-farmer look. Marlboro Classic is a brand that exudes this feeling – it’s outdoor adventure clothing but with a stylish twist. Casual but durable American ranch-wear with Italian influences in the tailoring…don’t get me wrong though – I like a good pair of sweatpants and a hoodie.
What are ten things you can’t live without ?
1. A good chopping knife- I just got a new one I can’t wait to use.
2. My fiancé – she’s my muse.
3. The NPR podcast Radio Lab- I like to listen to it on long drives.
4. My garden – I’m trying to walk in the footsteps of my dad who is a farmer. We just got our first two tomatoes of the season – pretty exciting!
5. Action movies, preferably with zombies.
6. Garlic is an essential ingredient for me in the kitchen. It makes everything taste better.
7. Brunch.
8. A cup of tea or espresso everyday – it’s soothing and cozy. It’s my afternoon routine.
9. Soccer or running is important for me and helps me center myself.
10. My weekly phone calls to me family back in France.
What is your Spirit Animal ?
I was told it was a whale once, because I’m peaceful but powerful…so I don’t know, but the Chinese calendar says I’m the rat – go figure.
What are your future aspirations – or at least for the next five years?
To retire to the beach within the next five years. … just kidding. I’ve always wanted to open a
restaurant.
If you could pick a superpower, what would it be?
To stop or control time.
What is something you learned since moving to the U.S?
Being more open-minded. Moving to a new place can be challenging but rewarding. I think everyone should move somewhere totally different at least once in their life.
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve received ?
I grew up in a very family-oriented culture, and I was always told to give time to my elders. This advice has served me well. I have so much respect for older generations and the wisdom they share. Also, my dad told me once, if you ever want to seduce a girl, be friends with her mom first…so far that’s worked.
Aubrey Mascali is wanna-be fairy trapped in a human body who is intrigued by tiny things and collections of nature stuffs. She enjoys rainy days with a nice cup of tea and cuddling with her dog Nemo. Currently living and attending school at UGA in Athens GA, you can usually find her doing cliche townie things like thrifting for vintage dresses, walking through the local farmers market, and drinking mimosas at brunch. Aubrey’s keen on meeting new people and hearing their stories. If she were a color, she hopes it would be pink, and if she were music she’d want it to sound like Architecture in Helsinki on a good day and Grimes on a weird day. In her capacity as an art student, she enjoys taking photos, painting, weaving behind a loom or spending countless hours doing five year old art projects like gluing rocks to paper. She is currently working on her thesis exhibition which will be on view at the Lamar Dodd School of art in May 2015.