Interior design expert Neale Whitaker on his fashion style

Do you have a favorite designer? My career started in London in the 1980s; Katharine Hamnett was the designer who influenced me the most. She was a pioneer of streetwear and workwear that still dominates fashion today. I also liked Paul Smith, Nicole Farhi and Joseph Ettedgui. Nowadays I feel comfortable with accessible brands like Assembly Label and Academy Brand, I see in them the simplicity that I have always admired.

What is your favorite scent? “Papyrus Moléculaire” by Maison Crivelli. I also like Byredo’s “Gypsy Water” and “Desert Dawn”.

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

Are there any go-to jewelry pieces? Two silver rings, including my Georg Jensen wedding ring, a silver ID bracelet and a small platinum stud earring.

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

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

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

What is at the top of your wish list? I’m in a phase where I don’t really covet anything anymore, but a classic black cashmere coat wouldn’t be out of place. Mr. Armani must have one.

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

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

What do you wear to bed? Tattoos.

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

Do you have a favorite fashion icon? So much. Cate Blanchett is rarely wrong, ditto 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 demands of the job, whether it’s on camera or not.

What’s your favorite off-duty, casual Sunday look? A T-shirt, linen shorts and Birkenstocks.

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

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