My Style: Moti Ankari
Portrait: Courtesy of Moti Ankari
Please describe your style in three words.
It's hard to describe it in three words, but I hope to convey a story with every outfit I wear. I live in New York, and that's a huge advantage as there is so much to be inspired by from the diverse people, cultures and art living in this city.
Do you believe in role models?
Totally. Most people draw inspiration from their role models.
What are your favourite fabrics?
Leather! I'm not really big on fur, but leather, and I mean good soft lambskin leather, is my absolute favourite.
Are there any style combinations that you object to?
I really dislike black and brown combinations. Both colours are dark and conservative, and should be paired with a funky bold colour.
Which city has the best-dressed men?
Florence in Italy, hands down. I studied there and the street style is legit. You will never see a gentleman all dressed up, and I mean suited up, to walk his dog in NYC, ever.
Would you say that you are conservative or bold?
I would say I'm a good mix of the two.
What are the rules in the way you dress?
There are no rules. I do what I want/feel. And that's the beauty of fashion. There are times that I look back at an outfit and think to myself "What was I thinking?" but I have zero regrets.
Name one garment/accessory that you can never have enough of?
I'm going to sound like a real woman when I say this, but, shoes! From loafers to sneakers, I can't get enough of 'em.
A man should always look like…
A gentleman. And that doesn't mean wearing a suit and tie every day.
Do you have any shopping rituals?
I'm not sure if this is a ritual, but when I'm shopping in a store I grab every item that catches my eye. Even though 90 per cent of the time I know I won't purchase it, I first try it on before I make that decision. You can't let the garments wear you, but you have to wear the garments. When I'm shopping online, I always order two sizes and keep the one that works out. I mean, almost every website offers free returns for the shipping, so I have nothing to lose.
Who taught you what you know about style?
Well, I was lucky. I have an older sister who influenced me heavily and is probably the reason why I love fashion so much. She was wearing Alexander Wang way before any rapper even had the slightest thought of rapping a lyric with the designer's name.
How do you select your clothing every morning?
Well, I typically have zero say when it comes to this. Mother Nature has the final word.
We will never see you wearing...
Meggings.
Which new designers do you follow and why?
I love Public School (although I'm not sure if you can consider them new anymore), for their bad boy yet uber stylish aesthetic.
What are the most treasured items in your wardrobe?
Oh god, this is tough. Every piece I own by Neil Barrett, my bespoke suits and every designer shoe I own, which might be two or three — two or three dozen, that is.
Who would you like to recommend for My Style?
My pal Marcel Floruss from One Dapper Street.
