Your personal style is a great way to reflect your personal growth as an individual. Steve Tilbrook found himself in a place where he was blossoming as a person and wanted to express that on the outside as well. He decided that along with his new attitude, he would upgrade his look as well. To his surprise, fashion became something he feels very passionate about and it motivates him to share his styling advice with others!
Inspiration
Steve has had a very interesting journey to create his personal style. His journey is thoroughly reflected in his unique style. “I style menswear outfits that are a bit different in the fashion style game mainly as it pertains to business wear. I way up all the different items of an outfit and try to put them together so that they all work harmoniously. My grandfather was always a well-dressed gentleman and I think he was my original inspiration. About 10 years ago I started working out and this was a catalyst for wanting to feel and look better. Working first on the inside and then naturally moving to what I wore as well. It soon became apparent to me that my sense of style was something that I others appreciated also which in turn fueled my passion for fashion which is now a huge part of my life.,” Steve says.
Style
Steve describes his style as “modern with color, texture and pattern experimentation.” He composes his style based upon individual pieces of clothing that catch his attention and using an attention to detail to bring everything together. “I always discover new things to incorporate into my style whenever I am scanning Instagram or the net in general or when I am out and about. If I see something that appeals to my sense of style I am on to it and want it in my wardrobe. It’s all about the attention to details. One of my main goals is creating a overall coordinated look. For example, if the lapel pin is silver the belt buckle and watch frame should also be silver. Same goes with color matching or linking as I refer to it. If you are wearing a red tie the pocket square should compliment it, not match it say with a navy or dark grey, then you can wear socks that are either red, navy or dark grey. It’s visual symmetry,” Steve explains.
Define Your Style
Creating a personal style that truly reflects your inner beauty is much simpler than many people may think. For Steve, it was a matter of following his heart and choosing things that he is naturally drawn too. He recommends that others take the same approach. “As I see it style is all about knowing oneself. For whatever reason, we all gravitate towards certain likes and dislikes and knowing the likes and being comfortable in them is the key to style. So, my advice is get some inspiration from Instagram the internet or the mall and find out where people got certain things that you really like. As a side note fit is critical so if an item doesn’t fit properly but you love the look and idea of it, don’t buy it because it will always be tainted and you won’t wear it because it won’t look as good as it did on the perfect manikin. I learnt this a long time ago,” Steve says.
Who do you consider the icons in the fashion & design industry?
The usual suspects Ralph Lauren, Calvin Klein, Armani etc. mainly in the suiting game. I don’t spend much time seeing what the latest trends are from these people apart from brief looks at fashion shows. I’m a believer of people creating their own unique take of what they think looks good.
What’s next? & why?
Very good question. The world is our oyster so anything is possible if I apply myself and work hard. I work full time as a town Planner so my passion for fashion is currently a side project that I would love to pursue on a more permanent basis.
What style/fashion accessory is your favorite?
I get asked this a lot and to be honest my answer changes depending on the day. Today I wore a crisp new suit that fits like a glove and gives me a huge confidence boost when I wear it. Tomorrow if you asked me I would say one of my pairs of loafers. The next day I would say one of my watches. I love them all equally I guess is what I am saying.
If you can/could consider yourself an expert in one area of style/fashion, what would it be?
As mentioned above my focus is on business and dapper attire. I would not say that I am an expert, I just think that I know what looks good to me and wear it with confidence.
Steve Tilbrook
SnapChat: @stevetillystyle
