My Style: Alex Bilmes
Photo: Courtesy of Alex Bilmes
The most stylish person you have ever met...
Gay Talese. I met him in New York. He’s every bit as dapper as advertised.
What is the biggest mistake one can make when getting dressed?
Putting his pants on last.
Do you believe in role models?
I believe they exist.
What are your favourite fabrics?
Cotton, wool, tweed, corduroy, denim, leather, but not necessarily in that order.
Are there any style combinations that you object to?
Skirts worn over trousers.
Which city has the best-dressed men?
London.
Would you say that you are conservative or bold?
I am boldly conservative.
Celebrities and style...
Are not mutually exclusive.
One garment/accessory that you can never have enough of?
Socks.
Who taught you what you know about style?
The television programme Top of the Pops.
How do you select your clothing every morning?
I tend to base my choices on cleanliness.
Do you have any shopping rituals?
None.
We will never see you wearing...
A hat.
What is the first thing you notice on a man?
His height.
Which new designers do you follow and why?
Christopher Shannon is a terrific, young British designer.
The only article of clothing that a man needs to pay close attention to is...
He should pay close attention to all articles of clothing.
What are the most treasured items in your wardrobe?
Bespoke Prince of Wales check, double-breasted suit from Gieves & Hawkes; bespoke charcoal, single-breasted suit from Richard James; bespoke navy suits from Kilgour and Rake; pinstripe suit from Dolce & Gabbana; old grey flannel suit from Kilgour; made-to-measure lightweight summer blazer from Zegna; double-breasted, light blue blazer from Piombo; tweed weekend jacket with elbow patches from Hackett; slim-fit, light grey summer suit from Burberry Brit; made-to-measure shirts from Ralph Lauren Purple Label and Thomas Pink; John Lobb and Tricker’s shoes; ties from Drakes and E. Tautz; pocket hankies from Gieves; cufflinks from Richard James; jeans from A.P.C.; T-shirts from Sunspel; casual shirts, trousers, etc. from a label called Norse Projects and from J. Crew; summer sneakers from Superga; winter boots from Red Wings; sunglasses from Persol; trunks from Orlebar Brown; polos from Lacoste and Ralph Lauren Polo. I treasure them all.
Is comfort an enemy of style?
Absolutely not.
Which designer never fails to impress you?
Alexander McQueen.
