About Me
Meet the original Dante: Chicago’s Visionary in Fashion, Art, and LGBTQ+ Advocacy
Dante is a dynamic and fearless force in Chicago’s fashion, art, and nightlife scenes. With over a decade of experience, he has built a reputation for creating electrifying, one-of-a-kind experiences that captivate audiences and forge connections across communities.
From Humble Beginnings to Prominent Figure
Dante’s journey began in Boystown, where the boldness and love of the LGBTQ+ community inspired him to take a leap of faith, transforming a part-time bartending job into a thriving, community-driven business. For Dante, bartending became more than mixing drinks—it was about creating safe, inclusive spaces where people could connect, share, and grow. Inspired by his daughter, Dante committed to building bridges between Chicago’s LGBTQ+ and non-LGBTQ+ communities, believing that unity fosters a brighter future for all.
Career Milestones and Achievements
In 2016, Dante’s career skyrocketed when he was invited to serve as a VIP bartender for prestigious events, including the Hispanic National Bar Association Convention supported by President Barack Obama. This opportunity marked a turning point, opening doors to high-fashion modeling and establishing Dante as a prominent figure in Chicago’s entertainment world. Since then, he has headlined major fashion shows for Progress Bar and Fashion Bar Chicago, collaborated with top brands like Men’s Room Chicago and Chicago Male Salon, and gained recognition for his bold style and magnetic energy. His work has been featured in Grab Magazine, The Advocate, and he starred in the music video for The Muse Maker known as Enoch Kim.
Artistic Influence and Global Reach
As an international model and muse for renowned artists, Dante’s influence extends far beyond nightlife. His striking portraits, including those by famed artist Richard Gibbons, have been showcased at The Gallery Victor in Chicago and featured in private collections around the world including his images including purchases made by the United States Ambassador in Nigeria. This global recognition solidifies Dante’s role as a creative trailblazer, blending art and fashion seamlessly.
Passionate LGBTQ+ Advocacy
Dante’s contributions to the LGBTQ+ community run deep. A passionate advocate, he has raised over $15,000 for the Center on Halsted through his work with Impulse Chicago, and collaborated with legendary drag queen Alyssa Edwards to drive visibility and support for LGBTQ+ causes. His commitment to empowering others is evident in his ongoing participation in Chicago Pride Parades and his unwavering dedication to creating safe, welcoming spaces for all.
Creative Vision in Interior Design
Beyond his work in entertainment and advocacy, Dante channels his artistic vision into high-end interior design. Since 2016, he has staged and designed over 100 luxury homes in Chicago, blending elegance and creativity to transform residential spaces. Grounded by spiritual practices like breathwork, Dante approaches every project with intention, aligning his creative work with his higher purpose.
Future Aspirations and Inspiring Message
Looking ahead, Dante envisions expanding his impact by creating fitness centers, resource hubs, and shelters that foster inclusivity and well-being. His guiding message is simple yet powerful: Trust the process, be fearless, and embrace your uniqueness. Through his work in fashion, art, and community advocacy, Dante continues to inspire others to break boundaries, challenge societal norms, and rediscover their magic. Dante’s contributions to the LGBTQ+ community run deep. A passionate advocate, he has raised over $15,000 for the Center on Halsted through his work with Impulse Chicago, and collaborated with legendary drag queen Alyssa Edwards to drive visibility and support for LGBTQ+ causes. His commitment to empowering others is evident in his ongoing participation in Chicago Pride Parades and his unwavering dedication to creating safe, welcoming spaces for all.
Creative Vision in Interior Design
Beyond his work in entertainment and advocacy, Dante channels his artistic vision into high-end interior design. Since 2016, he has staged and designed over 100 luxury homes in Chicago, blending elegance and creativity to transform residential spaces. Grounded by spiritual practices like breathwork, Dante approaches every project with intention, aligning his creative work with his higher purpose.
Future Aspirations and Inspiring Message
Looking ahead, Dante envisions expanding his impact by creating fitness centers, resource hubs, and shelters that foster inclusivity and well-being. His guiding message is simple yet powerful: Trust the process, be fearless, and embrace your uniqueness. Through his work in fashion, art, and community advocacy, Dante continues to inspire others to break boundaries, challenge societal norms, and rediscover their magic.