My Style: Justin Bridges
Photo: Greg Minasian — Courtesy of Justin Bridges
What is the biggest mistake one can make when getting dressed?
Dressing with the intent of peacocking. You have to dress according to your confidence, your own interests; it’s important to just keep it easy.
Please describe your style in three words.
Fickle, experimental, comfortable.
Do you believe in role models?
I do believe in role models, but I find they exist way more frequently amongst my peer group than on some higher aspirational level.
What are your favourite fabrics?
Denim, donnegal tweed, cashmere.
Are there any style combinations that you object to?
Half the battle is in how you wear it. I don’t oppose many things as long as there is thoughtfulness with regard to the fit, proportion, and pattern.
Which city has the best-dressed men?
New York City. If you look you’ll find well-dressed men everywhere.
Would you say that you are conservative or bold?
Compared to my classic menswear compatriots, I suppose I’m bold. I don’t think I’m off the wall or anything though — I’m pretty simple.
What are the rules, if any, in the way you dress?
Fit. Texture. Attention to detail. Be you, but don’t be afraid.
Celebrities and style...
Are like oil and water.
One garment/accessory that you can never have enough of?
Can’t limit this to one… well actually if I’m forced to… never mind, I can’t. I’m too much of a collector. Watches, ties, pocket squares, shoes, it just keeps going.
A man should always look like...
A reflection of his inner-self. I find that all my friends who dress their personalities first and bodies second are the most comfortable in their own skin.
Who taught you what you know about style?
Everyone and everything. When I was younger I used to read the GQ magazines. My father is handsome and always well-groomed. I pick up ideas and interests from blogs and street photography. My friends are undying sources of inspiration.
How do you select your clothing every morning?
One of two ways: 1) I start with shoes. 2) I start with pants. I work around a garment I’m certain I want to wear.
What is your biggest regret?
Ehh…I don’t really deal in regrets.
The three essential things a man should know about style are...
There are rules, so get acquainted. Style is an expression never to be limited by ignorance or fear, whether it comes from inside or out. Always be you… it’s what you’ll always be best at.
Do you have any shopping rituals?
When I was in finance and yearning for fashion, every Saturday I would head out to Barneys and Saks Fifth Avenue, then jet down to Soho for boutique exploration. I would do that cycle practically each week barring any other responsibilities. I don’t have any rituals anymore.
We will never see you wearing...
Women’s clothing.
The most stylish person you have ever seen...
Not fair. Probably Nick Wooster, or Shimon and Ariel of Ovadia & Sons.
What is the first thing you notice on a man?
Their overall energy, and then their shoes.
The one image that defined your approach to style...
You know… I don’t actually have an answer for this one.
Which new designers do you follow and why?
I really admire InAisce. The collections are a bit dark but unique and realistically imaginative. I’ve become a huge fan of Ovadia & Sons. You can really see their passion in their clothes and in conversation. The clothing is a refreshing take on some really classic pieces. I enjoy wearing Andrew Buckler, but he’s sort of on a hiatus since joining Converse. Phillip Lim is another designer that’s caught my eye in the last season or two. He’s done an amazing job with outwear and giving guys an opportunity to mix up their silhouettes a bit. Also, a lesser known label — Ale et Ange — makes some of the coolest garments I’ve ever seen.
The only article of clothing that a man needs to pay close attention to is...
This is the hardest questionnaire I’ve ever received. There is no one piece. I think a man should pay attention to all of the parts together.
What are the most treasured items in your wardrobe?
Drop crotch pants, my all black Sherpa lined parka, my Dr Martens collection, BLK DNM jeans.
Is comfort an enemy of style?
Negative, ghost rider. You’ve only got to find the right fit and then everything falls into place.
Which designer never fails to impress you?
Rag & Bone produces collections season after season that keep me loving the brand.
Who would you like to see next in My Style?
Interestingly enough, I’d like to see Jessica Yuen of Bedford Street Laundry answer some questions. She’s witty, and I like to laugh.
The best words of advice you have ever heard?
Follow your passion.
