Paul Vasileff
32, designer
The founder of internationally renowned couture house Paolo Sebastian, has dressed the Kardashians, Katy Perry and Rebel Wilson. Vasileff is also seriously stylish at work and play.
How would you describe your personal style?
Very classic and tailored, I like clean lines. In some ways my personal style is quite traditional, I’m often drawn to relaxed, classic European menswear. I would say The Talented Mr Ripley is a great reference point.
How has your style changed over the years?
Like most people as we grow and mature our style does too (thankfully). My style seems to have become more classic and clean.
Who are your style icons?
In terms of menswear I find a lot of inspiration from classic movies from the ’40s and ’50s and try to interpret these in a modern way. Icons like Cary Grant and Clark Gable.
What’s the oldest thing in your wardrobe?
I have a pair of jeans that I made for myself when I was 10. I was so proud of them at the time, I haven’t had the heart to part with them.
Your must-have accessory? A great pair of sunglasses and a classic watch.
Have you ever made a style faux pas?
All the time, I look back at old photos and go “what was I thinking?”. It’s easy to get caught up in trends that don’t match who we are, so it’s never going to work. I still get told off for trying to wear white pants.
What’s the most you have spent on an outfit? Let’s just say there’s a Burberry coat that only comes out on special occasions.
What is the most surprising thing in (or about) your wardrobe?
I think as a fashion designer people assume that I have a very elaborate wardrobe, but it’s actually 90 per cent navy. If you see any photo of me I’m probably wearing a navy knit with matching navy pants. I have about 14 pairs of each and a few in black because it is my staple “uniform”. I make sure everything I buy is good quality or tailor-made so I know it will last me forever.
Top three wardrobe must-haves? I think every wardrobe needs well-fitting pants, a beautifully cut blazer and dark brown leather boots.
What is the most sentimental item in your wardrobe? I have a suit that belonged to my Nonno, his best friend who was a tailor made for him. I remodelled it to fit me with while I was learning menswear tailoring with Riccardo and Luigi Di Fabio of Di Fabio Bros. Tailoring, (who have since passed away) so it holds a lot of special memories for me.
What fashion item would you buy if money were no object? A haute couture or Savile Row tailored suit. I’m always making clothes for others, so I would love to experience being the client for a change.
Summer or winter fashion? Definitely summer.
Favourite fashion era? The 1930s or 1950s.
Single or double-breasted jacket? I’ve been leaning towards double-breasted.
What’s your signature fragrance? Bleu de Chanel every day of the week.