Which city has the best-dressed men?
Global dressing has become so similar that it's rather difficult to pinpoint a city. I still appreciate the street culture and the inventiveness when there is little money involved in cities like Berlin.
Please describe your style in three words.
Functional, easy and painless.
What is the biggest mistake one can make when getting dressed?
Dressing for others.
Do you believe in role models?
Absolutely.
What are your favourite fabrics?
The combination of silk and cashmere.
Are there any style combinations that you object to?
Rules are made to be broken—in a convincing way.
Would you say that you are conservative or bold?
Boldly conservative.
What are the rules in the way you dress?
If it worked for me yesterday, then it will surely be okay for today and tomorrow.
Celebrities and style...
Can be dangerous when honesty is not a part of the equation.
Name one garment/accessory that you can never have enough of?
Grey melange t-shirts.
A man should always look like…
Himself.
Who taught you what you know about style?
My experiences from closely watching and interacting with the street. From high to low.
How do you select your clothing every morning?
It's a very organic process. I'm usually prone to put on what's lying on my chair or on the floor.
What is your biggest regret?
No regrets.
The three essential things a man should know about style are…
Keep it honest, dress for function and carefully control the use of accessories.
Do you have any shopping rituals?
I'm a creature of habit, therefore I know what works for me. I tend to frequent the same stores and online venues regularly.
We will never see you wearing...
I have a sorted past being a mover and shaker in the 80's, therefore this is difficult to answer as I've worn it all.
The most stylish person you have ever seen...
I have always been a fan of Paul Weller. Erykah Badu and Lauryn Hill are surely at the top of my list as well.
The one image that defined your approach to style...
An open Halston paper pattern. Taxi Magazine in the 90's was also a great reference point.
Which new designers do you follow and why?
I like the strength and courage of J.W. Anderson. I also find Maki Oh from Lagos interesting. She definitely has her own flair and mood.
The only article of clothing that a man needs to pay close attention to is…
I'm an avid believer that one should have a good total balance, but one must indeed pay attention to tailored jackets. A good fit is essential.
What are the most treasured items in your wardrobe?
Yohji Yamamoto trousers, as I use them regularly, an old, unavailable All Saints pair of jeans that fits perfectly, and a Hanes T-shirt that has been shredded to sheerness.
Is comfort an enemy of style?
Absolutely not.
Which designer never fails to impress you?
I'm in love with Christophe Lemaire currently, but I can always find my Dries [Van Noten] moment.
Who would you like to recommend for My Style?
Catherine Baba.
The best words of advice you have ever heard?
I cannot be responsible for what I don't have time to do.