My Style: Marcus Allen
Photo: Courtesy of Marcus Allen
The three essential things a man should know about style are...
Be confident in what you wear. Fit is 75 per cent of a great look. You can wear Vans with a suit (I insist).
Please describe your style in three words.
Eclectic, informed, natural.
What is the biggest mistake one can make when getting dressed?
Trying too hard.
Do you believe in role models?
Yes, I do.
What are your favourite fabrics?
It's a blend of linen, silk, and cotton. I like flow.
Are there any style combinations that you object to?
I think this is where we have opportunity, and this is what makes what we do interesting: attempting it all — think skater x Wall Street for example.
Which city has the best-dressed men?
I was really inspired by the dudes in Paris — effortlessly chic, subtle colours, and proper fit.
Would you say that you are conservative or bold?
Boldative.
What are the rules in the way you dress?
I always need to be comfortable with that I'm wearing and wear at least one vintage item with any rig.
Celebrities and style...
Are not necessarily synonymous, unless Ashley Olsen or Jude Law are the subjects at hand. Style is an innate sensibility, which often times has nothing to do with celebrity.
Name one garment/accessory that you can never have enough of?
Vintage Levi's jeans and Wrangler chambrays.
A man should always look like...
A man.
Who taught you what you know about style?
I don't believe style can be taught.
How do you select your clothing every morning?
I decide who I want to be that day, and if that character's rig can fit in my gym locker, I'm in.
What is your biggest regret?
Not buying a Coogi sweater when Notorious B.I.G. was their unofficial spokesperson.
Do you have any shopping rituals?
See now, buy now.
We will never see you wearing...
Before Phoebe's reign I would have said womenswear, but now I'm not so sure…
The most stylish person you have ever seen...
Robert Rabensteiner.
What is the first thing you notice on a man?
Probably his kicks.
The one image that defined your approach to style...
Not really sure, but Hedi Slimane probably photographed it.
Which new designers do you follow and why?
I guess I can still call The Row new — their menswear was a huge hit with me. It was so subtle, minimal, classic, and masculine. The fit and hand were minute details that made all the difference in the world.
The only article of clothing that a man needs to pay close attention to is...
I'd say his suit and more importantly the fit of said staple.
What are the most treasured items in your wardrobe?
I finally got my hands on a sweater from Acne that was sold out since its release two summers ago. I'm pretty stoked about it.
Is comfort an enemy of style?
Not at all, in fact I feel quite the opposite. If you are uncomfortable, it’s usually obvious and not a good look.
Which fashion house never fails to impress you?
RVCA, Céline, The Row.
Who would you like to recommend for My Style?
Molly Peters of Brunello Cucinelli.
The best words of advice you have ever heard?
Read Le Petit Prince by Antoine de Saint-Exupéry and know what life's lessons can be found herein.
