My Style: Armando Cabral
Photo: Justin Chung — Courtesy of Armando Cabral
The three essential things a man should know about style are...
Know your proportions. Learn to consider your shoes as the key accessory to complement your style. Be yourself.
Please describe your style in three words.
Elegant, easy, comfortable.
What is the biggest mistake one can make when getting dressed?
Trying too much. Just be yourself.
Do you believe in role models?
I do. My father is one. He has influenced me a lot in many aspects of my life.
What are your favourite fabrics?
Linen, wool, and cashmere.
Are there any style combinations that you object to?
All white from head to toe. No bueno.
Which city has the best-dressed men?
Definitely London.
Would you say that you are conservative or bold?
I am more conservative.
What are the rules in the way you dress?
Never try too much and always be comfortable.
Celebrities and style...
There's not much to say…
Name one garment/accessory that you can never have enough of?
I’m a shoes man! Needn’t say more.
A man should always look like...
Himself.
Who taught you what you know about style?
My father. He’s such a sharp dresser and I have learnt from him from an early age.
How do you select your clothing every morning?
I always start with my shoes first. Shoes really complement an outfit and once you have the shoes sorted nothing can go wrong.
What is your biggest regret?
Don’t have one. I live my dreams.
Do you have any shopping rituals?
No. I'm very spontaneous when it comes to shopping.
We will never see you wearing...
Tube socks with shorts.
The most stylish person you have ever seen...
My father and Sidney Poitier.
What is the first thing you notice on a man?
His shoes. The masterpiece of an outfit.
Which new designers do you follow and why?
AMI by Alexandre Mattiussi. His creations are for the everyday man who simply loves clothes but doesn't necessary follow fashion. Few people are doing that in menswear.
The only article of clothing that a man needs to pay close attention to is...
His shirt.
What are the most treasured items in your wardrobe?
A couple pairs of suits from Dries Van Noten and a bunch of shoes from the Armando Cabral collection.
Is comfort an enemy of style?
Not at all. Style really means comfort, at least in my vocabulary. Style should be easy and that comes from comfort.
Which designer never fails to impress you?
I am a huge fan of Dries Van Noten — I can almost buy their entire collection season after season.
Who would you like to recommend for My Style?
I would like to suggest my good friend Kalaf Angelo. He is a very talented and stylish man.
The best words of advice you have ever heard?
Always be yourself and follow your heart. There is no better truth than that.
