Georgina Heffernan: Who, in your opinion, are the most stylish male celebrities and why?
Alex Fitzgerald: Any that dress according to their size and shape, rather than simply slavishly following trends. And that, sadly, rules out the majority. Just two that spring to mind include David Gandy, the male ‘supermodel’, who is always impeccably turned out; and the comedian/actor David Walliams, who has a good eye for a well-cut suit.
Over the years, we’ve had a slew of Irish actors hit the big time and by that I mean – they’ve become Hollywood Heartthrobs. From Colin Farrell to Cillian Murphy and Jonathan Rhys Meyers - they have captured the imagination of audiences worldwide. What, do you think is their appeal?
First and foremost, they are all excellent actors. The lilting Irish accent and the fact that none of them is likely to break any mirrors can’t have harmed them either! What’s also refreshing is that none of them appear to be ‘styled’; rather, each dresses as they like and, as a result, tend to look comfortable in their own skin, as such.
Is there any leading male celebrity that you would like to give an image overhaul and why?
Where do I start? Graham Norton, although he has toned things down recently, could certainly do with a makeover. Some of his suits have to be seen to be believed – and not in a good way! You could also take 90% of premiership footballers and tell them to bring down the bling a notch or five. So much money and so little taste. Not that I’m envious, honestly... Seriously, though, far too many, from what I can see, favour logos and brash branding
over timeless style and understated elegance.
Over the past decade, the Irish male has become almost as interested in fashion as his female counterparts. Why do you think Irish men have become so style aware?
I’d put a lot of this down to Beckham – love him or loathe him; he’s the first sportsman that has shown that it’s ok for a man to take pride in his appearance. That’s not to say that every Irish male takes a keen interest in how he looks and what he wears.
How has the Irish male’s style evolved over the past decade?
There’s still an unofficial ‘uniform’ of bootcut jeans and check shirt but many Irish men are far more adventurous when it comes to their clothes. Just look at the trend for skinny jeans, for example. A look like this would have been laughed out of town not a million years ago but it’s one that has really taken off with Irish men. I think, on the whole, Irish men are more style-aware then before and spend more on their clothes.
What are the latest trends in male grooming for Irish guys?
I don’t believe men are really into ‘trends’ when it comes to grooming; they just want the basics – a good shampoo, moisturiser, high-quality shaving kit and possibly a hair product – that do the job well without costing a fortune.
What brands – both high street and designer- are your favourite and why?
Tom Ford’s menswear is exorbitantly priced but includes some timeless classics that I’d love to get my hands on. Christopher Bailey has worked wonders for Burberry and breathed new life into the brand’s men’s collection with pieces that whisper, rather than shout, their fashion credentials. And if Irish designer Louise Kennedy, whose taste is exquisite, had a menswear line, I can guarantee it would be high on my wish list. When it comes to the high street, so many retailers have much to commend. Zara is particularly good for clothing that looks far more expensive than it is.
As the editor of Irish Tatler Man, you are obviously very aware of the problems guys face with ageing. What issues concern men the most? From hair loss to weight gain - have you any solutions for them?
Men seem to be watching their weight more than ever, so that’s one concern that is particularly prevalent. We all know how to lose weight – eat less, exercise more, but few of us have the discipline and willpower to do so, preferring to look for a ‘miracle fix’. My suggestion would be to find an activity/exercise that you enjoy – if you look forward to an activity, you’re more likely to continue with it.
With a new season of style just around the corner- what are the key looks for men for the next season. What trends should they avoid and what looks will guarantee they’ll get noticed for all the right reasons?
The autumn/winter season usually throws up some great trends, so let’s hope AW11 is no different. The military influence is expected to be strong in menswear and, when worn well, can look great. Double-breasted overcoats with brass buttons and/or epaulettes definitely get a thumbs-up. There’s also talk of the ‘return’ of the double-breasted suit – a superb look for those who can pull it off. And great, too, for concealing a paunch for those that have been shirking gym duties!
