How did you find out about the Best-Dressed List? Were you nominated? How many entrants were there?
To be honest, I wasn’t expecting it. It began by my sister, who had sent my photos that I took with Annette Schimek to both GQ and Esquire magazine. When I got a call from both publications that I was shortlisted from thousands of applicants, it was really overwhelming and very exciting. I felt utterly inspired and celebrated for conveying my distinctive look. Currently Esquire magazine is out nationwide and GQ comes out 9th September. I remember talking to someone from the publication and was told they had over 15,000 entries each.
-How do you choose what to wear in the morning? Do you plan in advance?
Hmm. I have several of favourite cloths, especially from Brooks Brothers, Hackett, and Gant, so most morning you’ll find me wearing it. I’ve never planned in advance to wear anything apart from special occasions when I know I need to dry clean some cloths.
– What did you dream of becoming when you were a child? What profession you wanted to do.
I always dreamt of being a firefighter or working in fashion. Having no fashion influences in my life that was slightly harder so I dreamt of saving people and being a firefighter.
– How would you define fashion?
My personal style is a combination from 70-80’s era and the quintessential preppy modern man. Preppy is synonymous with sharp in many ways, and as such it is important to keep it somewhat classic and tasteful .The biggest influences in the way I present myself & trends come from Michael Jackson (thriller years), Art, 80’s glam, big hair, Blazers and Elegance that is, the signature of my representation. I believe everyone should create their own visual style and uniqueness to be identifiable to others.
– Do you have a favorite designer?
I have several of favourite designers but my top designers are Gant, Hackett, Oliver Sweeney, Police, Paul Smith, and Brooks Brothers.
– What did modelling give you?
I began modeling as one of the hosts for a boutique store then it lead me working with one of fashion well known names such as face-hunter and vogue photographers. I was always intrigued by the industry but after a year I realized it wasn’t something I wanted. It definitely made me stronger and thicker skinned in this industry.
– How did modelling change you?
Modeling never really changed me but it gave me an insight of how the industry worked. You certainly had the glamorous side of fashion and then the other side. I was always focused and remembered what my mother always told me “never change, always remember your background”.
– What makes a designer?
I believe it’s someone with self-taught skills, in formal design or art, education with a strong background and passion. However, there are many aspects of the profession. Working as a fashion designer can just as well mean supervising a design team. To be a designer takes a lot of time, dedication and hard work. Not to mention living just above the poverty line for several years.
– What is your message in design/fashion?
My message for anyone who’s interested in the fashion world would be do your research, know what your getting yourself into, be passionate, always think outside the box, be creative, and read magazines, educate yourself in this industry.
– How would you define who you are?
I’M A
Bow Tie, 80’s Glam, Skinny Jeans, Afrocentric,
Oxford shoes, Preppy, Blackberry, Mix and Match,
macbook and something practical,
KIND OF A GUY
-What is your favourite outfit or items and why? Do you have any style icons that inspire you? Who are your favourite designers and why?
My personal style is a combination from 70-80’s era and the quintessential preppy modern man. Preppy is synonymous with sharp in many ways, and as such it is important to keep it somewhat classic and tasteful .The biggest influences in the way I present myself & trends come from Michael Jackson (thriller years), Art, 80’s glam, big hair, Blazers and Elegance that is, the signature of my representation. I believe everyone should create their own visual style and uniqueness to be identifiable to others.
My favorite outfits are my Gant and Dunhil Blazer, Hackett Bow tie and Oliver Sweeney & Hudon shoe. Those clothing to me are a sense of my true identify, the colours are rich, and materials are spectacular yet fabulous.
-Do you have any plans for if you win? How are you finding the media attention?
I would see myself as a spokesperson for an organization, charity or a designer, as well as being role model to the younger generation, as well for many people that have overcome many challenges throughout their life coming from a third world country.
The level of public interest it’s offered me has been overwhelming. Its still hasn’t sunk in, I guess. I definitely started noticing it within the short space, the glances on the street, people approaching me asking to take a picture with me, the members of the public recognizing me. It’s been really phenomenal and exciting at the same time.
Thank you. Best of luck.
