My fashion role model isn’t encapsulated in the midst of a glossy magazine. He isn’t strutting down the runway with the next seasons Chanel draped over his perfectly sculpted shoulders. He isn’t even rich with access to all the newest and luxurious brands.
My fashion role model roams the high street. He works with me. He passes me on the underground. I take my fashion inspiration from the men around me. If fashion is an art, then these are the performance artists: the men who bring fashion to life.
I was working in Manchester a few weeks ago, and for the two weeks I was there I would pass the same gentleman twice a day. Once on my way to work, and once on my way back. I was astounded by his style. I saw him everyday, without a hair out of place. He managed to look just as smart and stylish in the morning as he did in the evening. I nearly stopped and asked for his photo one day I was so enchanted by his fashion sense. I don’t know what I would have done with his photo; I just wanted proof of his existence. Seeing him gave me the boost I needed after day one to get up twenty minutes earlier to prepare properly for work. I gave myself enough time so I wasn’t rushed and managed to leave the flat everyday pleased with how I looked. How a man presents himself can equally correspond to how he presents his work. As one of my old editors have said to me, “dress smart, think smart.” (Something I took seriously, wearing a suit to my final exam at University.)
A few years ago, I was obsessed with what I was wearing. I was constantly online looking at others who I thought had brilliant style. I gradually adapted parts of their outfits and flair to my own style and wardrobe. It’s a never-ending process still. As I get older and more “mature” I’ve cleared out a lot of clothes, and started to replace them with more… appropriate attire.
Dress for the job you want, and the man you want to be. This doesn’t mean stalking someone so you’re his fashion doppelganger. This will only lead to trouble. Borrow and adapt. Remember – it’s not easy walking in someone else’s shoes.