That 40s Kid' at Arcadia

For David Jerez-Szathmary ’19, history, fashion, and social justice are inseparable. Affectionately known as “That 40s Kid” around campus, Jerez-Szathmary leapt to a full-40s wardrobe as a sophomore in high school, embracing vintage ensembles from a bygone era.

He gets most of the clothing from eBay, or from veterans and others from that era. He also is commissioned as an artist, with people sending him vintage clothing for artwork he does for them.

Beyond epaulets and cardigans, Jerez-Szathmary believes this return to elegance should transcend fashion. Indeed, he holds a deep fondness for many of the decade’s cultural elements.

“I love the music from that era,” he said. “The style, the elegance, the artwork! The commercials from that era, the Norman Rockwell paintings—they actually made you want to go out and buy something. Now everything is so drab. The last time a car had style it had fins. You don’t see that anymore, and that’s a crying shame.”

To view his artwork and 40s fashions,
visit his Instagram: @That40sKid.