Ivan Deyle has a good eye for 'fantastic friends, well-fitted finds'

Ivan Deyle refers to himself as a "freshly 21-year-old trans masc gentleman." He spent many of his formative years in Seattle, Washington, but navigated to Rochester, Minnesota, a decade ago corresponding to Ivan's father's role as a physician at Mayo Clinic. Ivan is now too employed by Mayo Clinic, serving as a standardized patient where he acts as a patient for medical students and residents.

Outside of acting, Ivan's vocation is tied to nature. "I've worked at Oxbow Park and Zollman Zoo as a naturalist intern and at Quarry Hill as a park seasonal." What's more, he is currently an environmental science major at Rochester Technical Community College.

When it comes to pastimes, Ivan says he has too many. "I am a theater person and am frequently found on the various stages around Rochester. Other hobbies include my small business, Pyre & Fire (pyrography), writing, origami, hiking, thrifting, plus more."

How would you describe your style?

Sexy punk with a soft cottage core twist.

What do others often comment on or say with regards to your style?

It's usually comments on how well-fitted the clothes are to my body type. I've spent years trying to accept the body I have and find clothes that fit my wide hips and short stature. It takes a good eye, some fantastic friends, and a good thrifting experience to really bring together a look that's cohesive with your personality.

Motto?

"Be kind to yourself as you would be to others." I'm often my harshest critic, but I want to see the best in myself as I do others.

How do you embrace authenticity?

It takes a lot of care and be understanding of oneself. To be authentic you must go on your own personal journeys. Be very self-reflective during the hard times and appreciate the beauty of the good times.

What makes your style uniquely you?

I think the people around me. I have so many friends with so many different styles. We all love sharing the love of our unique individuality through style.

Thoughts on trends?

I'm not a huge clothing trend person. The closest thing I have to a trend is thrifting frequently. I love to find well-loved clothes and turn them into something new and elevated.

Most daring or bold piece in your closet?

I have a lovely white bodycon studded dress that I recently wore to a trip to New York. It got me many looks and many compliments. I wore it with some large white go-go boots and a studded silver choker.

Best purchase you've ever made?

My champagne lavender corset I bought at the Renaissance Festival. It was one of the first pieces of clothing that I really fell in love with after transitioning. For the longest time I had just worn clothes to pass as a man, not for enjoyment. And that corset, passing be damned, gave me so much joy whenever I put it on that I didn't care about passing anymore.

Any tattoos?

Two. I got my first one, an ouroboros-inspired snake eating itself, when I turned 18. When I was 19, I got another on a whim of a Death's Head moth. I intend to fill my whole leg with insects.

Items on your wish list?

Honestly, nothing. Whenever I want something it's because I'm inspired by what I see in the moment. Otherwise, I'm always content with that I have right now.

Common repeat purchases?

I'm always purchasing rings. I have a few on my hands that I've had for years now, and I just added a new addition made by a friend. I can be super picky when it comes to rings though, they must match my strange and ever-changing style.

What do you find yourself grabbing for most often?

I'm constantly grabbing well-fitting turtlenecks and sweaters. They're so versatile and go well with a good pair of pants. I especially go nuts for ones where you can see the chunky knitting. The texture is always satisfying.

Any items you do not plan to part with?

My Doc Martens. I love the look when they wear down a little — gives a bit more of a grunge feel.

Whose style do you admire and why?

My friend Levi. He's a punk guy and is always putting patches and studs on his clothes and making it all authentically him. It's amazing what he can style and enhance in a couple hours.

Parting thoughts or advice?

I know it's scary to express yourself, I've been scared to do so for most of my life. Just know, when you get to a point of love and acceptance of yourself, you'll always shine. You are beautiful in your own ways, so own that. Facing fears can be hard, but I know everyone has the strength.