My Style: Guillaume Viau
Portrait: Cory VanderPloeg
The three essential things a man should know about style are…
It’s not what you’re wearing, it’s how you wear it. That’s only one, but I think it’s all you really need to know.
Please describe your style in three words.
Clean, comfort, and monochrome.
What is the biggest mistake one can make when getting dressed?
Trying too hard, and wearing bad socks… neither goes unnoticed.
Do you believe in role models?
Absolutely. You can learn a lot from your role models, especially when you’re not afraid to ask questions.
What are your favourite fabrics?
Denim, leather, and cotton. You can never go wrong with any of those…
Are there any style combinations that you object to?
If you can pull it off, go for it. Who am I to judge?
Which city has the best-dressed men?
I was really inspired by the fashion in Tokyo.
Would you say that you are conservative or bold?
It depends on my mood.
What are the rules in the way you dress?
Keep it simple; less is more.
Celebrities and style…
Don’t always go hand in hand.
Name one garment/accessory that you can never have enough of?
Great shoes. It doesn’t matter what you’re wearing if the shoes don’t work with the outfit.
A man should always look like…
He’s comfortable and confident in what he is wearing.
Who taught you what you know about style?
My dad. He has always been an inspiration and continues to be when it comes to style. If I’m heading to important meeting or event, I’ll often send him a photo to get his approval.
How do you select your clothing every morning?
It depends on what my day looks like. I’ll see what’s on my schedule and dress accordingly.
What is your biggest regret?
No regrets; I truly believe that everything happens for a reason. If you learn from your mistakes, there’s no reason for you to regret them.
Do you have any shopping rituals?
I don’t do much shopping to be honest… or at least not enough to have any rituals.
We will never see you wearing...
Unflattering shoes.
The most stylish person you have ever seen...
My dad… understated elegance.
What is the first thing you notice on a man?
His personality… life’s too short to surround yourself with people who don’t share similar values with you.
The one image that defined your approach to style...
Ah, I’m not sure. My style has definitely matured over the last few years, and I think I’m finally feeling comfortable and confident in the way I dress.
Which new designers do you follow and why?
I’m really into Public School. It has been an honour to hang out with Maxwell a few times and his vision and work ethic are truly inspiring.
The only article of clothing that a man needs to pay close attention to is…
Everything; it only takes one thing to throw off your entire outfit.
What are the most treasured items in your wardrobe?
Classic white tees, and a watch that my parents gave me for Christmas a few years ago. There’s nothing more special than a thoughtful gift, and I’ll have it forever.
Is comfort an enemy of style?
It need not be. If you’re comfortable with what you are wearing then you’ll be confident, and confidence is style.
Which fashion house never fails to impress you?
Oak and Acne Studios.
Who would you like to recommend for My Style?
Maxwell Osborne from Public School.
The best words of advice you have ever heard?
“Meet with triumph and disaster, and treat those two imposters just the same,” by Rudyard Kipling.
