In an exclusive interview with Aficionado, British model David Gandy discusses style, fragrances and his on-going relationship with Dolce&Gabbana.
Gandy remains Britain’s biggest male modelling export, working with Dolce&Gabbana since 2006, and is proud to be the face of its many campaigns, including one for its latest Light Blue perfume.
How do you choose your signature scent?
Choosing a signature scent is very subjective. I would say, try a range of scents before you decide on one. Let it sit on your skin and decide after a couple of hours if it’s the one for you; the power of a scent is undeniable, so you will know as soon as you smell it.
What is your grooming regime?
My grooming regime is usually quite brief. Because I travel a lot, my skin is really dry, so I always have a good-quality moisturiser with me. But no matter where I am or how much time I have, fragrance is always a key part of it. I never feel complete, unless I’m wearing a watch and fragrance.
What do you expect from fragrances?
I like to wear a product with a long-lasting scent. I also like bold scents with a fresh edge. Fragrances that are really invigorating and energising are great, especially for the daytime.
Do you have any particular memory related to a fragrance?
I have always associated memories with scents. Summer fragrances always remind me of being abroad with my friends when I was young. We always had the most amazing road trips through Europe, especially in Italy.
What do you like the most about the Dolce&Gabbana look?
I like that the Dolce&Gabbana look has many facets. Here, in Capri, the look is very effortless and relaxed, but stylish at the same time. On the other hand, Dolce&Gabbana suits are the sharpest and most masculine of any designers and I’m very lucky that they fit me off the peg; they never have to be adjusted. I think whatever the look, Dolce&Gabbana knows how to make you feel your best for any occasion and confident, as I do when I’m on the red carpet wearing a Dolce&Gabbana [creation].
Are you very interested in fashion?
I think working in the fashion industry and being surrounded by fashion and the most creative people in the world on a daily basis certainly conjures that interest. Designers radiate creativity and energy that is very exciting to be around – you can’t help but be inspired and feel drawn to the work they do. I believe Dolce&Gabanna is a leading fashion house. I also have my own app, which was created two years ago, called the David Gandy Style app.
How would you describe your style?
I think my style is very British, as I feel most comfortable in a three-piece suit, which many men do not understand. Putting together a suit, tie, shirt combination is the easiest thing for me to do, but unfortunately, it isn’t always the most practical for what I do. So I am quite a utilitarian dresser, taking influences from Steve McQueen and Paul Newman.
What other projects are you working on?
There is going to be a very exciting project being launched in September that I’m working on and shooting at the moment, but I cannot reveal what it is. I’m still continuing to shoot many covers from all over the world and we are working in the ever-emerging fashion markets of Asia and South America.
Source: Aficionadome.com