Top Designer Simon Spurr Answers Your Style Questions

If you are already familiar with a brand, buying online is fast, convenient and probably the way forward.

 

ake a look at the author of this article. Yes, that is the Simon Spurr. The man knows his trade and has risen to the top of his game through hard work, patience and passion. Here, he answers your style questions and talks to us about his Spring 2012 collection. In a fashion quandary? Send your question to 

fashion@askmen.com.

Sachin Bhola
Fashion Editor, AskMen

Fashion Q&A With Simon Spurr

Fall Suiting

Hi Simon,

 I've been transitioning out my summer suiting (seersucker, linen, boat shoes), but am now left with the basics: a black and navy-blue suit. I'm looking to add some pieces to my work wardrobe for fall. What pieces, colors and patterns do you suggest?

Thank you,
Joshua L.

Flannel (my preference being a mid-gray) is an easy option for fall. It has the versatility to be worn as a suit and broken apart with jeans. Maybe also try a black peak-lapel tuxedo jacket. As we near the Christmas season, you'll have a few functions that you'll most likely want to look sharp for, without looking too dressed. A tuxedo jacket and black jeans should suffice. I'd also recommend a black peacoat and a good pair of tightly fitting black driving gloves.

Combat Boots

Hi Simon,

I just bought my first pair of black leather combat boots, which I plan on wearing with jeans. But is it OK to wear them with a suit? How should I wear them?

Thank you,
Liam D.

Combat boots are also very versatile. It's OK to wear them with a suit as long as they are black like yours and are worn in a more casual environment (probably not to the office). But note that the styling of the boot is important: too open, and the look is sloppy. Worn closed or slightly open is better.

Custom-Made Shirts Online

Hello Simon,
My wife came across a website that produces custom-made shirts at a reasonable price, and she's pushing me to try it. I'm not sure how I feel. Will it fit? What's the quality like? I don't want to deal with returns. What's your general opinion on these types of services?

Thanks,
Dough G.

I've actually never used these websites. I'm sure they are good, but I'd maybe suggest to make one shirt first before you order your next paycheck's worth. Test them out. See how they deliver, how the shirt performs and then go back for more. I personally like to shop in person so I can feel the product. That said, if you are already familiar with a brand, buying online is fast, convenient and probably the way forward.

What's the story for Spring 2012? What was your favorite piece from the show?

Simon Spurr (SS): From an impact point of view, my favorite piece is the trench coat with leather biker sleeves. However, as an everyday piece, it's the V-neck sweaters with the laminate tape  on the back shoulder. I just wore the sweater to an event in Paris and got a lot of compliments.

What's something about the collection that people probably don't know?

SS: Everyone knows about the quality and the fit (at least I hope they do), but people probably don't realize that the black leather motorcycle jacket in the show is actually glove leather bonded to cork. The cork (like your corkboard) is shaved down to an extremely thin layer, dyed gray and then carefully bonded to the black leather. The effect is amazing.

What do you plan to accomplish with the brand, say, five years from now? Any plans on expanding the line with different products or collaborations?

SS: The company is about to move into another gear in the very near future. Whilst there has been steady growth over the past few years, it's definitely time for a store and maybe to pay more attention to accessories. All I can say right now is watch this space!

Has the state of the economy affected the industry or is it business as usual?

SS: It definitely hit the industry. And it hit the middle market quite hard. I think it polarized people's spending habits, either forcing people to buy less expensive brands or, if you are more affluent, to continue to buy designer brands that were a little more understated. No one likes an [opulent] consumer wearing flashy logos, displaying their wealth whilst the rest of the country is suffering.

SIMON SPURR [the brand] has successfully catered to this more refined and discerning customer, and has shown steady and marked growth each season despite the economic downturn.

AM: What was your most recent fashion purchase?

SS: Actually, it was a pair of gray suede Moncler boots. I haven't worn sneakers in years, but sometimes (especially with all of the travel I do) it's nice to have a super comfortable option of shoe.

 Article by:  Simon Spurr