My Style: Ludwig Heissmeyer
Portrait: Matthew Tischler — Courtesy of Ludwig Heissmeyer
Do you have any shopping rituals?
There are no particular rituals but rather impulses that need to be fulfilled. I am not a practical shopper. When something speaks to me and fits nicely it's a done deal no matter the season or function.
Please describe your style in three words.
A deconstructed approach to classic and elegant dressing.
What is the biggest mistake one can make when getting dressed?
Trying too hard and missing the point.
Do you believe in role models?
I absolutely do. I am lucky to have a few!
What are your favourite fabrics?
I adore all silk fabrics; a lightweight silk twill shirt or a heavy silk crêpe coat. I love the feeling and drape of it. I am also an advocate of cotton velvet.
Are there any style combinations that you object to?
I have my own fashion pet peeves, but if you can make it work, go for it!
Which city has the best-dressed men?
Florence.
Would you say that you are conservative or bold?
A healthy mixture of both. I like combining classic pieces such as blazers, with unconventional items like oversized and baggy shirts and pants.
What are the rules in the way you dress?
I need to feel comfortable and appropriate. I am not the best casual dresser.
Celebrities and style...
Is an extremely tricky issue!
Name one garment/accessory that you can never have enough of?
My shoe collection—particularly my loafers.
A man should always look like…
He's at ease, sexy and (somewhat) in control.
Who taught you what you know about style?
Florence taught me about the classic and elegant approach towards style. New York keeps on teaching me to push boundaries, try new things and be open-eyed!
How do you select your clothing every morning?
It depends on my mood, hair, schedule and weather.
What is your biggest regret?
The limitations of my closet space.
The three essential things a man should know about style are…
His own body, the importance of fit, and proportion.
We will never see you wearing...
Sweatpants.
The most stylish person you have ever seen...
Nick Wooster and Carolina Herrera.
What is the first thing you notice on a man?
His posture.
The one image that defined your approach to style...
I remember vividly seeing a traditional Greek man's costume as a young boy while on vacation and immediately understanding that there is more to fashion than just “regular” pants and shirts.
Which new designers do you follow and why?
Haider Ackermann for his take on fabrication, silhouette and drape, and the clean and minimalist lines of Christophe Lemaire.
The only article of clothing that a man needs to pay close attention to is…
There are several: his watch, shoes, and underwear.
What are the most treasured items in your wardrobe?
Probably my vast collection of shoes and the variety of my shirt assortment.
Is comfort an enemy of style?
Sometimes yes; however, style should keep the upper hand.
Which designer never fails to impress you?
I keep a keen eye on Dries Van Noten.
Who would you like to recommend for My Style?
Dan Levy, actor and TV personality.
The best words of advice you have ever heard?
Never leave the house before checking a full-length mirror.
