Art is not about the lack of control-in fact; it’s
the complete opposite. There are very specific boundaries. Being able to
express and understand emotion through what you wear is incredibly healthy to
the design of appearance. The need for functionality has given men the
liberation to dress in a way that serves their needs, both fast paced and
expressive. Our desire for function has also led to the transformation into
luxury articles. In particular, the waxed cotton canvas Belstaff jacket has
gone from outdoor, motto gear to de rigueur piece of outerwear in the city,
replacing the traditional rain coat seen on the streets at men’s fashion week.
Speaking of style, you can’t ignore the
dramatic moments clients have when embodying great characters converted into
style icons. What is the secret to their success in the design industry? Are
they just natural born gents? The answer lies with Joe
Ottaway, a forward thinking stylist, writer, creator and overall
men’s fashion guru, Joe introduces A-list celebrities, into the world of new
age men’s fashion. “Sometimes the style conscious man of today can benefit from
a little help, guidance and a few steps.” The men’s industry is represented in
a somewhat one-dimensional, unapproachable and pretentious way. With Joe’s
guidance, he is willing to break those barriers and misconceptions down for the
stylish man of today. The charming interview includes, amazing photos compiled
from Joe’s impressive portfolio.
Heather Lisa Noire (BF) What
inspires you about fashion?
Joe
Ottaway: I am inspired by the heritage and the tradition of fashion
particularly British Fashion. Gentlemen like Prince Michael of Kent and Prince
Charles have been dressing impeccably for decades and are now being recognized
as true style icons, what they have been doing for decades of time is now
filtering down to how modern men dress. Britain is the birthplace of true
sartorial style, with Savile Row being the most iconic destinations in the
world.
Heather Lisa Noire (BF) Are
you a dressy or casual person?
Joe Ottaway: I am much more of a smarter
dresser, I feel dressing smart for all occasions is not only much simpler but
provides much more of a powerful impact.
Heather Lisa
Noire (BF) Do you feel intrigued to take risks?
Joe Ottaway: When it comes to fashion I am not
a big risk taker, I believe in keeping style simple and fuss free.
Heather Lisa Noire (BF) Are
investment pieces necessary, if so what is one you can’t live without?
Joe
Ottaway: Investment pieces are pivotal in creating a solid timeless
wardrobe; they will act as the cornerstone of creating staple looks. Every Gent
must own a pair of good brogues.
Heather Lisa
Noire (BF) Have you ever thought of becoming a designer?
Joe Ottaway: Yes I have thought of becoming a
designer, and it is something that may well be my next project.
Heather Lisa Noire (BF) Who is
your favourite designer?
Joe Ottaway: My Favourite designer is Ralph
Lauren for me he represents what true masculine style is.
Heather Lisa
Noire (BF) What do you love most about fashion and least?
Joe Ottaway: What I love most about fashion is
the emotional side of fashion and how it can install confidence and self esteem
to individuals. I’m a great believer in not relying on good clothes to give you
confidence but to use them as a tool in your emotional armoury. What I hate
about fashion is people taking the industry to seriously, at the end of the day
we are not saving lives!!!
Heather Lisa Noire (BF) What
client was the most incredible to work with?
Joe Ottaway: I am lucky enough to work with a
wide range of Gentlemen and a lot I am lucky enough to call good friends of
mine including David Gandy and Jude Law.
To break the rules, you must first master them.
Interview Conducted and Written by Heather
Lisa Noire.
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Joe's Portfolio |
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Joe Ottaway Style |
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Joe's Style Icons |
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Joe's Style Icons |
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Joe's Portfolio |
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Joe's Portfolio |
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Joe's Style |
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Joe's Portfolio |
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Joe's Portfolio |
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Joe's Portfolio |
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Joe's Portfolio |
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Joe's Portfolio Model David Gandy |
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Joe's Portfolio Actor Jude Law |
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Joe's Portfolio Actor Jude Law |