Introducing our newest GURU Style Star — Michael Poole.
Michael is a Towson Town Center shopper and a manager at West Elm (Level 2). On the day I photographed him, he looked like he could have been on his way to a fashion shoot!
Michael’s thin grey cardigan and skinny jeans are both PacSun finds. The sweater is 4-years-old and remains a staple of his wardrobe. The fitted oxford is from Express. His tie is American Eagle. Michael scored his Sperry shoes from Journeys. He looks at store mannequins, magazines and TV shows for inspiration.
Here is our Q&A.
How would you describe your style?
Michael: I know what I like. I believe in good basics with some trendier things you can mix and match in when putting together an outfit. For example, cardigans and thin v-neck sweaters should be a staple so you can layer them with henleys and dress shirts. I like versatile pieces.
What is your favorite store in the mall?
Michael: I do like Banana Republic. Gap from time to time. American Eagle for certain things. They have some really good prices.
What is the most treasured item in your closet?
Michael: I love my Frye boots. You can get them at Nordstrom. If you are going to buy something that is expensive, you need to know it is quality. The boots get better with time…. If your home is burning down and you can only take one piece of clothing, I would take my boots.
What is the biggest misconception about guys and clothes?
Michael: That it takes a lot of work to look nice everyday and that you have to sacrifice style for comfort. I find a lot of time guys that have to wear uniforms to work all the time — whether a suit or scrubs — they have a hard time on their time off finding their personal style.
More of Michael’s thoughts on women and men when it comes to style: I feel that most women learn at a young age what to put together and what looks good, where as with men, no one takes the time. They may know what they like but are not sure how to put it together to meet their lifestyle.
Thanks for the tip, Michael!
I left our chat feeling inspired to talk to my own 7-year-old son about how to pick out his outfits. I have to admit that I lay out his clothes each morning, where as my 5-year-old daughter and I usually spend way too much time talking (and often debating) about what she will wear each day.
If you’ve missed my other GURU Style Stars, here is a look back.
1/19: Laquita Carrington
1/12: Lindsay Lopez
1/5: Sisters, Ryleigh and Ashley
Stay tuned for next Thursday’s GURU Style Star! I’m on the prowl for anyone showcasing the latest trends and those setting their own!
