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Interior design expert Neale Whitaker on his fashion style
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Interior design expert Neale Whitaker on his fashion style

Do you have a favorite designer? My career began in London in the 1980s; Katharine Hamnett was the designer who influenced me the most, she pioneered street and workwear that still dominates fashion today. I also loved Paul Smith, Nicole Farhi and Joseph Ettedgui. These days I’m comfortable with affordable brands like Assembly Label and Academy Brand, I see in them the simplicity I’ve always admired.

What is your favorite perfume? “Papyrus Moleculaire” by Maison Crivelli. I also like “Gypsy Water” and “Desert Dawn” by Byredo.

What are the three essential items in your wardrobe? Black Uniqlo t-shirts, baseball caps and trainers are the basics I build with every day.

Any favorite jewelry? Two silver rings, including my Georg Jensen wedding ring, a silver ID bracelet, and a tiny platinum earring.

Do you remember a favorite outfit you wore as a child? My brother and I both had Batman suits; I wanted to be Robin, but I was Batman and Batman.

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What was your first fashion moment? As a young PR intern, I went to John Galliano Les Incredibles graduation show in London in 1984. It was a truly ‘amazing’ time to be working in fashion!

And your biggest fashion mistake? My very tight black leather pants were probably always an accident waiting to happen. Unfortunately, I was about 35 when I wore them.

What’s at the top of your wish list? I’m at a stage where I don’t really covet anything, but a classic black cashmere coat wouldn’t go amiss. Mr. Armani must have one.

Is there anything you would never wear? Crocs, anything with big logos, crop tops.

Is there a current trend you like? I love that we’re wearing baggy pants again.

What do you wear to bed? Tattoos.

What shoes do you wear most often? New Balance, sneakers and Nike, Birkenstocks, Blundstone boots and Tevas.

Do you have a favorite fashion icon? So many. Cate Blanchett rarely gets it wrong, and neither does Tilda Swinton. I also like Harry Styles, Jude Law and Jonathan Bailey. King Charles has always been impeccably dressed and I admire the work of British fashion stylist Luke Day.

What do you wear on a typical work day? There is no such thing. I dress for the requirements of the job, whether it’s on or off the camera.

What’s your favorite off-duty Sunday look? A t-shirt, linen shorts and birkenstocks.

Neale Whitaker’s homewares collection for Gro Urban Oasis is available from gro-urbanoasis.com.au

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