My Style: John Pearson
Photo: Kurt Iswarienko — Courtesy of John Pearson
Do you have any shopping rituals?
Find something you love and if you are able, buy at least two. I have two sons who will one day inherit my suits, shirts, motorcycle jackets, and shoes (if their feet ever stop growing!).
Please describe your style in three words.
Effortless, classic, masculine.
What is the biggest mistake one can make when getting dressed?
Attempting to look like someone else and wearing bad socks and underwear.
Do you believe in role models?
Yes, but not necessarily concerning fashion.
What are your favourite fabrics?
Natural cotton and cashmere.
Are there any style combinations that you object to?
Not really… I object to whoever is objectionable in character, not in thread.
Which city has the best-dressed men?
I think perhaps Rome.
Would you say that you are conservative or bold?
Conservative with a growing inclination towards being bold…
What are the rules in the way you dress?
Keep it simple, be swift, and follow your own lead.
Celebrities and style...
Are not always mutually exclusive.
Name one garment/accessory that you can never have enough of?
A beautiful white shirt.
A man should always look like...
He participates with enthusiasm, genuine curiosity, and confidence.
Who taught you what you know about style?
Fellini, Godard, Truffaut.
How do you select your clothing every morning?
With haste.
What is your biggest regret?
I have never dwelled upon regret.
The three essential things a man should know about style are...
Be yourself. Be clean. Be polite.
We will never see you wearing...
A unikini/mankini, though I do admire the 1920’s all-in-one men’s bathing suits.
The most stylish person you have ever seen...
Many, though Mr Gianni Agnelli springs to mind.
What is the first thing you notice on a man?
His energy.
The one image that defined your approach to style...
Gary Cooper photographed by Horst P Horst.
Which new designers do you follow and why?
Sire’s Eyewear, as I mentor them. They are conscious, eco-friendly, artisans, and fun.
The only article of clothing that a man needs to pay close attention to is...
All articles need attention, but never obsession.
What are the most treasured items in your wardrobe?
My 1966 Belstaff Panther motorcycle jacket and my father’s wallet.
Is comfort an enemy of style?
On the contrary, it’s essential.
Which fashion house never fails to impress you?
Tom Ford, Yves Saint Laurent, Lanvin.
Who would you like to recommend for My Style?
Mr Jack O’Connor, the most talented young stylist I’ve come across recently. He’s the men’s stylist at J.Crew and also a truly wonderful Instagram photographer…
The best words of advice you have ever heard?
"To attempt may be to die, but not to try is never to be born."
