For you, is blogging a profession or a passion project?
To be honest, it’s a bit of both. The blog started out as an ode to the stylish peacocking of Pitti Uomo [a bi-annual men’s fashion trade show held in Florence], which I had always dreamt of attending. But two years on, the blog has become a profession thanks to its popularity, and strong social following on Instagram and Facebook, and it has taken me to Pitti Uomo seven times and counting now.
What is it that makes Pitti Uomo so special?
It’s everything from the different materials, colours and patterns, to the true Italian style and craftsmanship. At first, I would gain so much inspiration for my own outfits and for small details that could add to a look. Now, it provides me with the platform to network with the right people and brands. Then again, it’s also a couple days in Florence and who wouldn’t want that?
What were the challenges you faced when you started in 2013?
The social media scene was dominated by female bloggers and there was an unconfident stigma surrounding men and fashion. I wanted to change this. I wanted to be able to inspire gentlemen all over the world on how to dress, how to pair different pieces together and how to live a confident and charismatic life. These days, I’d say the blog is a source of inspiration across a number of topics including fashion, travel, grooming, gadgets and cars.
Can blogging be a lucrative career?
If you can throw your business hat on and think in an entrepreneurial way, blogging can most definitely be a lucrative career. Though if fluctuates a lot, especially in the Middle East market where you have very quiet months during the middle of the year. Now, I tend to lock down long-term projects with brands as it beneficial for both parties.
Speaking of which, can you tell us more about how you came to be the first Tumi ambassador from the region?
Tumi was actually the first brand I represented as an Ambassador. Seeing as I travel on a monthly, and even weekly on special occasions, the brand approached me with the privilege of being their first UAE brand ambassador. Being one of the most premium luxury travel accessory brands in the market, I gained great exposure across multiple publications and news platforms in the region.
You’ve also recently been named an IWC friend of the brand, how is that going?
Growing up as a kid, I had a great infatuation with watches, and not to be bias or anything, my favourite watch brand at the time was in fact IWC. From attending SIHH and Dubai International Film Festive as a VIP guest, to factory tours and publication features, I think it’s my greatest achievement on the blog to date.
To what do you credit your interest in fashion?
Being the first boy in the family, my parents loved to dress me up and have me looking dapper all the time. I guess this must have played a part. And though I am aware of the saying “never judge a book by its cover”, I think that if you look good, you feel good, so maintaining a good look is key.
What makes your blog so unique and to what do you credit your large following?
I targeted a very specific audience: businessmen who love suits and travel and then I made sure to maintain quality content over the years, which keeps them interested. Coming from a marketing background, I also use engagement tactics to organically grow the following because if you can get your followers to converse amongst each other, you will definitely grow.
How do you manage time to run your blog efficiently?
Having a full-time job consumes the majority of my time, so I have to use my weekends efficiently. I usually put together an effective plan for each weekend, where I pre-organize photographers to produce quality images, as well as a content plan on what I have to write and when it has to go live.
You’re a down to earth guy with a good sense of humour, how do you keep a straight face with some of the super poses you pull off?
When I first started posing for photos, it would actually take a solid 20 to 30 shots to get the right one. I would spend the entire time either laughing or pulling off a frighteningly serious face. Over the time and with a lot of photo shoots with brands, it has become a natural thing. I can comfortably walk the streets and have my photographer snap away.
Have you ever thought about creating your own Blue Steel?
Definitely not the pout, but maybe a distinctive feature that would make me stand out would be good. There’s a famous blogger in Australia who rocks an impeccable, curled moustache who has attracted global recognition, so something along these lines… May be it’ll be the Arabian beard!
How would you describe your personal style and what inspired it?
My personal style would have to definitely be European Italian with a Middle Eastern twist. I love my double-breasted and tweed suits, handmade leather shoes and killer pocket square and tie combinations.
How important is comfort in men’s style and is there anything uncomfortable that you love wearing?
Comfort is key especially when wearing suits. Ideally, your suit should not be too tight or too baggy, it should fit just right allowing you to move freely and comfortably. To finish off the outfit and most importantly, you need a clean pair of comfortable shoes. You will be on your feet for the majority of the time, so investing in a pair of comfortable shoes is key. Of course the sweltering summer months in the Gulf can make wearing a suit a little uncomfortable but if there is air-conditioning, I will wear my suit!
What are the tips you’d give men looking to get more with it?
Invest in a well-tailored suit and a classic timepiece. They do not have to be expensive or branded, but they should fit with your lifestyle and help you establish your image. Then you can move on to investing in nicely weltered shoes and suave ties and pocket squares.
What’s a fashion rule you’d never break?
Never wear white dress shoes with a suit, they should be forbidden!
If you had to wear just one brand for an entire year, which would it be?
I would have to go with Salvatore Ferragamo. I have been infatuated with the brand for over a year now and absolutely love what Massimiliano is doing with the brand in terms of patterns, checks and prints.
What do you splurge on and what do you skimp on?
I splurge on shoes and suits, and skimp on accessories like cufflinks.
What’s a new trend that you’re particularly excited about and why?
In January’s shows I noticed a huge trend in tailored baggy/flared suit trousers. At first I completely looked away, though after a private fitting with Pal Zileri, Mauro Ravizza Krieger, the Creative Director of the brand, encouraged me to try a pair and if I’m honest I must say they were so damn comfortable and somewhat grew on me. I still need some time adjust though.
What would you say that is the greatest satisfaction of being a fashion blogger?
To be honest, being able to inspire gentlemen across the region to take that leap into trying something new with their outfit or lifestyle and seeing it come to life is one of the greatest satisfactions.
In the future, where do you hope your blog will take you?
I am working towards cementing the blog as the “go-to” platform in the region when it comes to men’s fashion and lifestyle. Establishing such a feat will not be easy, but all in due time!
