My Style: Matthew Edelstein
Photo: Ryan Schmidt — Courtesy of Matthew Edelstein
How do you select your clothing every morning?
I have a uniform that varies according to the season. Mostly it's a pair of Acne jeans and a Band of Outsiders shirt. When I find something that fits me well, I like to buy it in several colours. It's a cliché but it works.
Please describe your style in three words.
Practical, easy, cool.
What is the biggest mistake one can make when getting dressed?
Not dressing according to your body type.
Do you believe in role models?
Role models are for kids. Adults should be the best possible version of themselves. Looking up too much to others is an endeavour fraught with peril.
What are your favourite fabrics?
Natural.
Are there any style combinations that you object to?
[Wearing] clashing patterns looks tacky on a man.
Which city has the best-dressed men?
Parisian men are chic and in London, the men dress fashionably. Only New York has that modern, cool vibe.
Would you say that you are conservative or bold?
Conservative in dress, bold in ideas.
What are the rules, if any, in the way you dress?
Dark colours, good fit, great watch.
Celebrities and style...
Rarely go hand-in-hand.
One garment/accessory that you can never have enough of?
T-shirts.
A man should always look like...
Himself.
Who taught you what you know about style?
I'm self-taught.
Your biggest regret is...
No regrets!
Do you have any shopping rituals?
I prefer shopping with women for their clothes. The fashion is more interesting. When I shop for myself, it's very simple and I like to get it done as quickly as possible.
We will never see you wearing...
A woman's handbag. It's not sexy and makes you look like a fashion victim.
The most stylish person you have ever seen...
Catherine Deneuve asked to borrow a lighter from me outside an Yves Saint Laurent dinner.
What is the first thing you notice on a man?
Whether he makes eye contact and has a firm handshake. Confidence is very stylish.
The one image that has defined your approach to style...
There isn't one specific image. My style comes from a lot of different reference points.
Which new designers do you admire and why?
I've been following Raf Simons since the beginning of his career as a designer. What he does resonates strongly with me. I also think Alexander Wang is cool. It's interesting to watch a brand evolve and grow.
What are the most treasured items in your wardrobe?
Old shoes that are perfectly worn-in. I like to spend a lot of money on shoes and wear them forever. The way they break in is so great.
Is comfort an enemy of style?
One must be comfortable in the clothes they wear to feel confident. I think it's about the man more than the clothes. The right guy can look stylish in a t-shirt and jeans as much as in an expensive suit.
The best word of advice you have ever heard?
"Elegance is refusal."
