My Style: Cator Sparks
Photo: courtesy of Cator Sparks
Which new designers do you follow and why?
E. Tautz, because Patrick Grant is hysterical. Same said for Alex at Lord Willys. Michael Bastian is always amusing, so are the Duckie Brown boys.
What is the biggest mistake one can make when getting dressed?
Not pausing for final approval.
Do you believe in role models?
Yes!
What are your favourite fabrics?
Tweed and tartan.
Are there any style combinations that you object to?
Socks and sandals.
Which city has the best-dressed men?
Every city from Charleston to Shanghai has some good looking gents in my opinion. It’s always fun scouting them out.
Would you say that you are conservative or bold?
Bold.
What are the rules, if any, in the way you dress?
No rules. My mother still yaps at me for mixing plaid with gingham.
Celebrities and style...
Is an oxymoron, save for Tilda Swinton.
One garment/accessory that you can never have enough of?
Colourful socks.
A man should always look like...
He cares about himself.
Who taught you what you know about style?
Reading about historical men such as Brummell and Duke of Windsor. Also, my grandfather.
How do you select your clothing every morning?
Quickly—I like everything I own.
What is your biggest regret?
Not buying more gloves at this incredible old glove store in Antwerp.
The three essential things a man should know about style are...
History, current trends, yet not looking like a clone.
Do you have any shopping rituals?
Im fast. I know what I want.
We will never see you wearing...
Drop crotch pants.
The most stylish person you have ever seen...
Daphne Guinness and Hamish Bowles.
What is the first thing you notice on a man?
Eyes then ties.
The one image that defined your approach to styleâ¦
Duke of Windsor in his kilt.
The only article of clothing that a man needs to pay close attention to isâ¦
A crisp shirt.
What are the most treasured items in your wardrobe?
My great grandfather's watch and cuff links. And my custom made Duca Sartoria tuxedo.
Is comfort an enemy of style?
No, unless you are hungover.
Which designer never fails to impress you?
Etro.
Who would you like to see next in My Style?
The artist Walter Hugo and James Fayed from Turnbull and Asser.
The best words of advice you have ever heard?
The best accessory is a smile.
