Tom O’Dell on how to dress well
The menswear and interiors expert on everything you need to know about dressing well this year
When it comes to personal style, Tom O’Dell has it figured out – mainly because he understands that clothes aren’t always the only component to consider. For Tom, a stylist, interior designer and art director, style takes on a 360 approach, covering everything from homewares to his personal style.
We sat down with the style aficionado to discuss his career, the style tips he’s learnt along the way, how to dress well and the one thing not to focus on when it comes to fashion.
On working in menswear
‘When I was 14, I got my first job working in a traditional menswear store in my hometown, Bedford. The store had been open for nearly 100 years and I started on £20 a day. It’s where I first learnt the trade – discovering everything about suit cuts, tailoring and shirt styles, as well as serving and helping customers. I’ve worked in menswear ever since.’
On his personal style
‘My style has always focused on classic menswear with attention to detail. I love a good coat – I have over 30. Some are new, many are vintage. The right classic coat will last you forever, just like shoes. I also love a good pair of natural fibre wool socks in winter for when I’m on set and of course a cashmere scarf is a real luxury.’
On seasonal style
‘Throughout the year, my colour palette always seems to stay the same. I feel that my style has always nodded to traditional menswear from the 50s and 60s, and even in the summer I like to be smarter rather than more casual. My focus tends to be on swapping fabrics, so I might switch a winter fabric like wool for something lighter such as linen or cotton.’
On blending menswear and interiors
On his best piece of advice
‘Try not to worry too much about what you’re wearing and concentrate on enjoying yourself instead. The best piece of fashion advice that I’ve ever received is to look after your feet and knees by buying good shoes. Pretty solid advice, I think!'
