My Style: Brian Atwood
Photo: Bruno Van Mossevelde — Courtesy of Brian Atwood
How do you define style?
It has to come from within, from an inner confidence — it is all about attitude.
Do you have any rules when it comes to the way you dress? If yes, what are they?
No matter if it is jeans or a tuxedo, everything must fit properly. Clothes should be effortless; they should compliment your physique, and once you are dressed in the morning you should have no need to rethink your clothes for the rest of the day.
Do you believe in role models?
I am not sure I would say that I “believe in role models” but I can say that I have had many wonderful people in my life who have had a great impact, from my mother to Gianni Versace.
What are your favourite fabrics?
For myself: cashmere, denim, and leather.
Are there any fabric combinations that 'scare' you in the way that you dress?
I am not convinced about bright colour combinations. I prefer tone on tone mixes, in muted colours, whether they are light or dark.
If there is one article of clothing that a man needs to pay close attention to, then it has to be...
Shoes. They say everything about your personal style and identity.
If we could generalise it, then which city has the best-dressed men?
Milan. No matter where the men are originally from, in Milan they tend to wear high quality fabrics and well-fitted garments with a real sense of style.
The most essential things a man should have in mind about style are...
Whether you are going casual or need to be formal, you should always consider fit. Understand your size well! If something is intended to be tight or loose it should still be your size to fall properly, and compliment your physique.
What is the biggest mistake one can make when getting dressed?
It is important to dress appropriately. Over or under-dressing for an occasion can affect your confidence, and confidence is the main ingredient of style.
What is the first thing you notice on a man?
His shoes; you can learn so much about a person from the type of shoes they wear.
Do you have any style fetishes?
I think it is quite obvious that it is definitely shoes… I also have a weakness for gold watches.
You can never have enough...
Shoes, leather jackets, weekend get-away bags, and closet space!
A man should always smell like...
Each individual’s chemistry is different, so I do not advise choosing a fragrance because it is in fashion; you have to see what works with your skin. For me, I love Jo Malone’s fig cologne: it is clean, sensuous and subtle. I do not like overpowering scents — a man’s scent should be quite intimate.
The best words of advice you have ever heard?
Gianni Versace taught me to never compromise my integrity.
