The CEO of George Cleverley — widely regarded as Britain’s finest bespoke shoemaker — George Glasgow Jr was raised amongst the artisans of Mayfair’s gentlemen’s accoutrements industry. (His father, legendary master shoemaker George Sr, is the proprietor of Cleverleys, the Royal Arcade atelier that caters to the handcrafted footwear whims of royalty, tycoons and top entertainers alike.)
A Savile Row habitué who now calls Los Angeles home — Stallone and Statham number among his many loyal Hollywood clients — we asked the younger Mr Glasgow for the style dictates he follows whilst plying his trade, providing incomparable shoes and magnificent men’s accessories to the world’s most discerning aficionados.
10. “My father has always told me, ‘Invest heavily in your bed and your shoes, because if you’re not in one then you’re in the other!’ It’s absolutely true. So don’t be cheap in these two areas.”
9. “Always dress according to your body shape and height. Certain cuts and styles just work better on certain body frames.”
8. “Every man should have a beautifully made tuxedo. The right one can easily last 20 years no matter how often you attend black tie events — they’re never that frequent, after all. Nearly all events calling for black tie clothing are special occasions, so make sure you look your best for them.”
7. “If hats don’t suit you then don’t wear them! Certain people just look ridiculous in them (like me).”
6. “Double-breasted suits have to be cut correctly, otherwise they can make the body appear very square, which is never a good look. I have most of my suits made at Anderson & Sheppard — they always get it right.”
5. “No matter what your income, save and buy that one pair of special shoes or suit a year. One amazing suit is better than five cheap, poorly made ones.”
4. “Buy clothes based on the fit and the cloth — not the brand name or because they are on sale.”
3. “The first 10 shirts in your wardrobe should be a combination of white and blue. These are timeless, complement nearly all suits, and are fit for most occasions.”
2. “If you live in a very hot climate, like Singapore for instance, then take that under consideration when choosing the materials you wear and the shoes you buy. In warmer climes, shoes with rubber soles and clothes in lighter-weight materials just work better.”
1. “Gentlemen’s grooming products are extremely important. Style goes beyond the wardrobe. Personally, I’m a massive fan of Pankhurst London grooming products and my favourite fragrance is Bond No.9 Chez Bond.”
Though based in the Royal Arcade, Mayfair, London, George Cleverley caters to clients globally — visit their website for further information.