Pasos For Oak Cliff provides children in Oak Cliff with educational programs and sneakers. The nonprofit, co-founded by Jesse Acosta and Alejandra Zendejas, puts on a summer education program for rising ninth graders, hosts clothing markets for small business owners, and organizes shoe drives for kids in need of new footwear.
For Acosta, the nonprofit was a blending of three passions: the Oak Cliff community, education, and sneakers. Here, he opens his closet for D CEO sharing what styles he wears in a work week, how he dresses on the weekend, and what inspires his fashion choices.
What I Do
“As the co-founder and executive director of Pasos for Oak Cliff, I help students in need of new shoes. It boosts their confidence and class performance; we also teach kids how to design sneakers through literacy and math.”
Style Icon
“Shane McMahon, former wrestler and son of Vince McMahon, founder of WWE. Before I saw his style, I was already dressing up sneakers with suits. People told me that was unprofessional. Did it stop me? No. After I saw him do it, it encouraged me more.”
On the Job
“Pasos’ identity is built around education and sneaker culture. When I show up to meetings or events, people expect me to have the best shoes. Thus, I wear loud or bright shoes. Sometimes I’ll throw in a loud blazer for pop.”
Fashion Inspiration
“I’m inspired by streetwear, Gen Z’s love for vintage clothing, and current sneaker trends.”
Style Defined
“Dressy but fun. I try to visually represent the work I do in Pasos.”
Fashion Essential
“Sneaker cleaning wipes”
Go-To Look
“I go for a slim look: a nice blazer, dark jeans, a sweater or a vintage tee, and always sneakers.”
How I Accessorize
“I add on my gold watch, gold cross, and my class ring from The University of Texas.”
Weekend Look
“I tend to wear vintage and looser clothes.”
Favorite Store
“Centre and Sneaker Politics. When looking for rare sneakers, these are the go-to.”
