Andy Allen
Masterchef judge
For someone who describes their personal style as “basic with a twist”, there’s nothing boring about Andy Allen’s wardrobe with a fun mix of fashion staples, “shackets”, Converse sneakers and a Dolce & Gabbana suit thrown in for good measure. Taking inspiration from the 70s, Allen has a knack for pairing quality basics with cool accessories where the allimportant “I don’t really care” attitude means he can pull off almost anything … just not a mullet!
How would you describe your personal style?
Casual and basic with a twist. Don’t mind a bit of colour from time to time.
Who are your style icons?
Devin Booker does a good job of keeping it simple but always looking good.
What’s the oldest thing in your wardrobe?
A pair of black Converse Chuck Taylor high tops … they’ve definitely seen better days but I just can’t seem to get rid of them.
What are your favourite brands?
Uniqlo – can’t beat it for basics. COS. I Love Ugly – they’re a NZ label that I’m pretty into. Pacifico Optical make some epic sunnies that won’t break the budget.
What’s the most you have spent on an outfit?
I dropped a decent amount on my wedding suit which I’m yet to wear. I’ve gone with a pretty classic Dolce & Gabbana doublebreasted look. Fingers crossed it still fits …
Have you ever made a style faux pas?
In my late teens/early 20s I had a bit of a mullet going on and now it’s all the rage and I’m too scared to go back there.
What is the most surprising thing in (or about) your wardrobe?
My fiancee did an underwear shop for me and now approximately 80 per cent of my undies are peach-coloured Bonds.
Summer or winter fashion?
Winter – I’ve just moved to Melbourne and my jacket collection is growing. Or should I say “shacket” as a lot of the Insta world have pointed out, I might be the king of the shacket.
Denim or suits?
100 per cent denim.
Loafers or sneakers?
Sneakers – I don’t even own a pair of loafers.
What would you buy if money was no object?
A Cartier Tank watch. (Sorry darling.)
What is the most sentimental item in your wardrobe?
A watch that my fiancee gave me for Christmas a few years back.
Is there anything in your wardrobe you have regretted throwing out?
I’m all about a good wardrobe clean out so no regrets.
How many pairs of shoes do you own?
Probably over 20 – mainly sneakers, some boots, and my trusty Birkenstocks which I had to recently replace after 10 years as I finally wore a hole in the bottom.
Favourite fashion era (i.e. 60s, 70s, 80s)? 70s – but maybe that’s just because I love Led Zeppelin.
Masterchef Australia: Foodies Vs Favourites airs Wednesday, Channel 10
annabel falco