My Style: Michael Malih
Photo: Thomas Lavelle — Courtesy of Michael Malih
Are there any style combinations that you object to?
When clothes are over the top, too flashy, or when the label is too obviously displayed. Sometimes less is more.
Please describe your style in three words.
Simple. Details. Efficient.
What is the biggest mistake one can make when getting dressed?
When people wear clothes that don’t fit them properly.
Do you believe in role models?
Yes I do. David Beckham is a style icon I look up to.
What are your favourite fabrics?
Leather, denim, and cashmere.
Which city has the best-dressed men?
London and Milan.
What are the rules in the way you dress?
My only rule is to feel comfortable with what I’m wearing.
Celebrities and style...
Are not always compatible! Some stars are totally out of style, and unfortunately, just do it to get more attention.
Name one garment/accessory that you can never have enough of?
Watches… but I’m always late.
A man should always look like...
Clean, happy, and in synch with his own personality.
Who taught you what you know about style?
I am not sure if I know anything about it. To me style is subjective — it’s all about personal taste.
How do you select your clothing every morning?
It depends on my schedule. If I have a recording session, I tend to dress more casual.
What is your biggest regret?
Seriously, no regrets.
The three essential things a man should know about style are...
Know the right place to buy clothes. Never wear an incomplete suit. Never wear white socks outside the gym!
Do you have any shopping rituals?
As a very impulsive person, I choose and buy very quickly. And if I hesitate between two things I like, I take both. I’m lucky.
We will never see you wearing...
Baggy jeans and cheesy looking luxury clothes.
The most stylish person you have ever seen...
Lenny Kravitz.
The one image that defined your approach to style...
The Eau Sauvage de Dior campaign with Alain Delon.
Which new designers do you follow and why?
The French-Korean designer Youn Chong Bak, creative director of Smalto. She perfectly knows how to dress men and make them beautiful.
The only article of clothing that a man needs to pay close attention to is...
His shoes. No one can touch my Berluti shoes.
What are the most treasured items in your wardrobe?
My huge collection of suits and ties. If I were a trader or a lawyer I would wear them every day. So only for weddings and Festival de Cannes parties.
Is comfort an enemy of style?
Yes it can be. But style should be a pleasure and not torture!
Which designer never fails to impress you?
Rick Owens, Alexander Wang, Hedi Slimane, Marc Jacobs, and of course Youn Chong Bak.
Who would you like to recommend for My Style?
Brazilian supermodel Renata Maciel.
The best words of advice you have ever heard?
Everything’s gonna be alright.
