My Style: Tom Van Dorpe
Photo: Jason Kim — Courtesy of Tom Van Dorpe
What are the rules, if any, in the way you dress?
I tend to stick to the classics; I do believe men shouldn’t experiment too much and look more attractive if they keep it simple. For me personally, it’s about a great cut and fit, nice fabrics, luxurious materials, colour combinations.
Please describe your style in three words.
Minimal, casual, Belgian.
What is the biggest mistake one can make when getting dressed?
The biggest mistake is following a trend that isn’t right for you… think twice.
Do you believe in role models?
I do believe in role models but it’s important to be yourself and not to try to be anyone else… a role model shouldn’t serve as an example, but they can help you find your personal style or the things you like in general.
What are your favourite fabrics?
Cashmere; I always have a cashmere sweater with me and I’m obsessed with Ralph Lauren Home cashmere blankets.
Are there any style combinations that you object to?
Men and heels.
Which city has the best-dressed men?
Copenhagen—they also have the most beautiful men, which helps.
Would you say that you are conservative or bold?
Conservative style with a bold personality, which makes the conservative style look more exciting.
Celebrities and style...
Only come around once in a blue moon.
One garment/accessory that you can never have enough of?
Black jeans.
A man should always look like...
A man.
Who taught you what you know about style?
I think it’s a mix of many people… I’ve gotten to know a couple people with great vision and style in my life so far: Joe Mckenna, Raf Simons, Carine Roitfeld, Marie Chaix, Olivier Theyskens, Dries Van Noten, and David Vandewal must be some of them.
How do you select your clothing every morning?
In a hurry!
Your biggest regret is...
No regrets so far. I believe everything happens for a reason.
The three essential things a man should know about style are...
Be confident, keep in shape and get a women’s advice.
Do you have any shopping rituals?
Barneys NY!
We will never see you wearing...
Flip flops and tank tops (in the city).
The most stylish person you have ever seen/met?
Carine Roitfeld.
What is the first thing you notice on a man?
His shoes, watch, and teeth.
The one image that defined your approach to style...
Must be a picture of a young Hannelore Knuts.
Which new designers do you follow and why?
Peter Pilotto because he’s doing something new and they have such a vision that is totally their own; Tim Coppens because his men’s designs are so strong with an amazing quality that is very rare for a new designer; Christopher Kane because he surprises me every season with an original collection; and Joseph Altuzarra because he knows what a chic woman is about.
The only article of clothing that a man needs to pay close attention to is...
His underwear.
What are the most treasured items in your wardrobe?
An Alexander McQueen embroided sweater, Dries Van Noten pants and sweaters, an Acne blazer, Tim Coppens coats (x2), Hermès and Dries Van Noten boots, a Rolex watch, a vintage varsity jacket
Is comfort an enemy of style?
I’m all about comfort!
Which designer never fails to impress you?
Balenciaga/Nicolas Ghesquière, Miuccia Prada, and Raf Simons.
Who would you like to see next in My style?
Hamish Bowles.
The best word of advice you have ever heard?
Just do it!
