Interview with Kerry M. Mitchell, Stylist With Substance
by Raised in New York, educated in London, and now in LA, Kerry M. Mitchell combines a British sensibility with the casual, cutting-edge flair popular among style-conscious Southern Californians. Drawing from Scottish and Jamaican roots, he brings a uniquely transatlantic approach to styling and design.
He’s the rare fashion insider who understands the business and economics of the fashion industry.
What prompted you to decide to become a stylist?
I’ve always been interested in fashion, but this was not supported by my conservative family. While attending grad school in London my interest expanded exponentially with the creative environment the city offers.
[quote]I’ve always been interested in fashion, but this was not supported by my conservative family.[/quote]
Q: What is your favorite article of clothing or accessory?
A watch. I believe that both men and women should make the investment as a wardrobe staple.
Q: What is your typical day? Most challenging part of the day for you?
Up at 7:30 AM, check emails, coffee, Facebook / social media updates by 9 AM, second large latte, start researching ideas / looks for clients, by noon I typically have an event / luncheon or networking opportunity, late afternoon hit the gym, then back to the office or meetings ’til 7 PM, dinner, then catch up on reading magazines / trades, before bed I check in with distributors, suppliers in Turkey & China. I’m currently working on a men’s collection called Kerry M. Most challenging part of the day is getting to bed.
[quote]I’m currently working on a men’s collection called Kerry M.[/quote]
Q: Is there one look that you styled that you would consider your “signature” style?
Yes, of course. You can reference my website kerrymmitchell.com to see this, but basically I like a very simple, structured look of high quality fabric and construction that can be easily complemented with seasonal trends.
[quote]I like a very simple, structured look of high quality fabric that can be easily complemented with seasonal trends.[/quote]
Q: What’s the biggest “faux pas” when asked to style a celebrity?
There really is no such thing; I treat each client equally … it’s important to listen and continually get their feedback or a buy-in from them.
Q: Have you ever had a designer who refused to send you clothes? Had a celebrity refuse to wear an outfit / or designer?
No, never; most clients are open to my suggestions and trust my opinion. That’s why they’re here.
Q: Who in your opinion has flawless style? Yesterday, today and tomorrow?
Gwen Stefani has always looked flawless to me and for a guy I like Ryan Seacreast; he’s always well put together.
Q: Name your three favorite shops? Name three items every man should have in his closet in order to have GREAT style
Stores: Opening Ceremony, Fred Segal and Saks Men. Clothes: A pair of premium dark denim, a light V-neck sweater and a dark or gray blazer to be worn with denim or slacks.
[quote]Every man should own a pair of premium dark denim, a light V-neck sweater and a dark or gray blazer.[/quote]
Q: What is your favorite trend right now? Which trend would you like to see pass?
I like color blocks and I especially love the pink pops in men’s collections. Suit jackets with shorts and knee-high socks have got to go … not appropriate for mature, successful men. Might work for a 16-year-old schoolgirl in Bermuda.
[quote]Suit jackets with shorts and knee-high socks have got to go.[/quote]
Q: Who would you allow to style YOU for an event?
Tom Ford
Q: What are you wearing RIGHT now (knowing that this is an online, at home interview and nobody’s looking).
I’m wearing a red Mark Jacobs polo (who I’m totally obsessed with), G Star denims and chucks.
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ABOUT JAMES MACLEAN
Trend-setting, accomplished and passionate. Those are just a few words to describe luxury marketing expert James MacLean, who has transformed the celebrity product placement industry through events such as GRAMMYS, Nickelodeon’s Kids’ Choice Awards, American Country Music Awards, Golden Globes, Spike TV Video Game Awards, BET Awards, NAACP Image Awards, Sundance Film Festival and Grand Prix Monaco. He continues to set the pace and raise the bar in some of the most glamorous settings around the globe.
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