StyleTails speaks to couture wallpaper designer, Claire Coles and her dainty little Dachshund Pickle. 

Defining the unique work of Claire Coles is somewhat of a challenge. The words; art, design, ethereal and otherworldly come to mind, although none fully capture the essence of her stunning pieces. From her West London studio, Claire creates one-off couture wallpapers and prints for a range of clients including the likes of Liberty and Perrier-Jouët, as well private commissions. StyleTails speaks to Claire and her dainty little Dachshund Pickle to find out more about her beautiful work.

Firstly, how did you get your start as a designer?

I studied Applied arts at Middlesex University and graduated in 2003. I was very fortunate to get some commissions directly from my degree show, one of which was a wallpaper display for Liberty. This gave me the confidence to start up my own business.

Your delicate prints and wallpapers are truly works of art. How would you describe your style and what goes into creating them?

I would say my style is ethereal, elegant and organic. I work by collaging papers with silk, leather and felts, and then freehand machine embroidering these materials together to create a range of surface patterns. I use the sewing machine as others would use a pen or pencil in a loose and fluid way.

What originally inspired you to work in this way and what do you think people love about it?

I have always liked the idea of creating something that captures reminiscence of the past but with a contemporary twist. Using embroidery in a loose way, I am trying to create patterns that appear to have grown to life themselves in a delicate and sensitive way. I think people are drawn to intricacy and handmade nature of my work.

You use a lot of floral motifs – are you inspired by flowers and if so, which are your favourite to work with?

Flowers are a predominant influence in my work, but I don’t really have a favourite. If anything I try and create florals that aren’t obviously recognisable, they are otherworldly.

Your work is inspired by patters in old textiles and wallpapers. Where do you source them?

I collect them from vintage markets, eBay and junk shops.

How long can a private wallpaper commission take to complete?  

Once we have decided on a pattern, it takes two to four weeks for production depending on the size of the room.

You recently worked with French champagne brand Perrier-Jouët (a personal favourite bubble of StyleTails) Can you tell us a little bit about the  collaboration and how it came about?  

I designed and produced three embroideries which were then adapted into surface patterns for a limited edition gift packaging. My inspiration for the works came from their Art Nouveau collection at the Maison Belle Epoque in Épernay and the aromas of the wines. I was contacted directly by the brand to work together, and have recently been invited to be part of their Art Salon.

You’ve worked on some amazing projects. Which are you most proud of? 

I love seeing my wallpaper being installed in someone’s home where is really comes to life, but my project with Perrier-Jouët has been my proudest collaboration so far.

Who would be your dream collaboration?  

I would love to produce a series of rugs, so The Rug Company would be great to work with.

What are you currently working on?

I am currently working on a new collection of wallpapers and panels which I will be launching at Decorex in London this September.

How did you come to own your Miniature Dachshund Pickle? 

I looked after a friend’s dog and I was so sad when I gave her back, so I contacted the breeder she came from and luckily they had one puppy left – it was meant to be.

What made you choose a Dachshund? 

I had a collection of quite a few dachshund objects form jewellery to ceramics and artworks before I got Pickle, so I’ve always been drawn to the breed.

What do you love about Dachshunds? 

I like their feisty nature, funny waddle and they are so charismatic

Pickle enjoying a power nap on her patchwork bed from East End Best Friend

Does she come to work with you at your studio in Notting Hill? 

She does, although she can be a little territorial. She is quite popular so we always get people popping in to see her. Plus, if I’m having a bit of a tough day its great to take time out and have a cuddle.

Can you see her inspiring your work? 

So far I haven’t used her as an inspiration but who knows I might start sewing sausage dogs on my wallpaper, or maybe not!

QUICKFIRE QUESTIONS – PICKLE

Describe yourself in three words?

Long. Petite. Regal

What’s your favourite treat? 

Bones but I’ll give anything a try

Your favourite dog-friendly places around Notting Hill? 

The Elgin in Maida Vale is good – they do great chorizo and serve Perrier-Jouët

Your most treasured possession

My blanket I love to burrow under

What inspires you? 

I love the countryside in Norfolk, great for squirrel hunting

What is your ideal holiday destination and why?

A beach holiday, I love sunbathing and picnics

When was the last time you cried? 

Last week. I didn’t want to sleep alone in my bed I cried until Claire gave in and I slept in her bed

Who is your ultimate style icon? 

Audrey Hepburn

You can see all of Claire’s beautiful work at www.clairecoles.co.uk

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Tuuli & Beans in Rankin’s Hunger Magazine

StyleTails speaks to model, dog-lover and wife of Rankin, the amazing Tuuli Shipster with her trio of trendy pups, Pickle, Beans and Tombi. 

Tuuli Shipster is totally infectious, in the best possible way. Bounding into the beer garden of the pretty Primrose Hill pub with her rescue Whippet Beans,  the model, muse and wife of fashion photographer Rankin is full of errrrr, beans.

It’s not hard to see why, after having met Tuuli on an Elle MacPherson Intimates shoot in 2003, Rankin became, well, rather obsessed with her. With a South African mother and Anglo-Dutch father, Tuuli (her middle name), has definitely been blessed in the beauty stakes, with those annoyingly amazing cheek bones and a body that immediately reminds you, you need to go for a run.

But apart from looking lovely, I was delighted to discover that she is lovely. So lovely in fact that we spent most of our afternoon together going completly off topic, laughing at our dogs and generally annoying everyone else in the pub.

Tuuli talks chewed knickers, red leather cat suits and the mayhem and mis-haps of orchestrating the ultimate doggy photo-shoot………

You’ve worked on some amazing projects in your modelling career. What has been the most fun job you’ve ever done? 

Definitely the launch of the James Bond book, Devil May Care. I got to fly down the Thames in a speed boat wearing a red leather cat suit. How often do you get to do that? I refused to wear a life vest after I saw Daniel Craig wearing one and it looked lame. I was also one of the Santa girls in Love Actually that were dancing and playing the Saxaphone (well, pretending to) with Bill Nighy. I loved those Santa suits.

What would you have done if you didn’t go into modelling?

I originally wanted to study Politics and Economics. I had got into LSE and was going to model for my gap year. I then got a job abroad over freshers week so deferred for a year. I guess I’ve had a gap life!

You’ve been modelling since you were 16, do you still love it?

Modelling’s been great and I’ve had such a wonderful time doing it but I turned 30 last year and it felt like time to do something different. I’m actually about to start an intensive nine week course in LA to become a Bikram Yoga Teacher which is very exciting.

Bikram Yoga is pretty hard. I did it with a hangover once and nearly died. What do you love about it? 

You tried it with a hangover!? That’s crazy! It’s definitely intense. I do it about four times a week at the moment and apart from all the physical benefits, I love the way yoga gives you some head space and calm. It really helps you focus.

Is this the end of modelling for you? 

I’ve done and seen so much through modelling which I’ll always be grateful for, but like most jobs, it does run its course. It can get a bit disheartening being judged on your looks all the time. I’ll still do some modelling work, but it won’t be my main focus. I’m at a point now where I can just enjoy doing the fun stuff, like messing around in the studio with Rankin and doing things like our dog calendar which is a real laugh.

Tuuli & Pickle in a Rankin shoot for Jitrois.

You and Rankin have got three dogs. Have you gone dog mad?!

Yes, it’s crazy having three but we love it. Because we live and work from the studio in North London, they are great stress relievers and so much fun to have around.

Tell us a bit about them? 

We have Tombi, she’s a 13 years old Jack Russell, that I’ve had  since I was 18. She’s quite a grumpy old lady now, we call her Linda Blair after the actress who played Regan in the Exorcist. We also have Pickle who is a four year old Lurcher that we rescued from the RSPCA. And lastly, Beans, a little Whippet who is just over a year old and we rescued her from a little charity called the Greyhound Gap.

Would you like to get more? 

Rankin thinks that I’m their favourite so he wants to get a fourth that will love him most. I told him it doesn’t work like that – I feed them and take them for three walks a day over at the Heath so they’ll always love me best.

Rankin & Beans look down the lens

How did they get their names?

My mum is South African so the name Ntombi (Tombi) came from Xhosa, meaning little girl . Pickle was named by the RSPCA because he was in such a pickle when they found him and he has definitely lived up to his name. In one of the first photos we saw of Beans, she was put next to a can of beans to show how small she was. Apparently she was so small she blew over in the wind. I also thought it went well with Pickle!

What mischief have they got themselves into? 

I’ve had many pairs of designer shoes chewed to bits. My Lanvin boots are full of teeth marks and for some reason they always seem to go for the nice lingerie, never the M&S pants.

We love your annual dog calendar. How did the idea come about?

We first did it five years ago just with Pickle and Tombi for my parents and it’s grown from there. We’ve done a Horoscope themed calendar, Dogue, which was take on doggy Vogue and last year’s was films. I’m still trying think of this year’s theme. I need some inspiration!

Beans stars as Holly Golightly in Barkest at Tiffany’s

What has been the funniest moment shooting the calendar?

A couple of years ago when we did horoscope calendar, we had Tombi in between two ancient taxidermy lambs and she suddenly pinned one to the ground and tried to maul it. I think it may have lost a tail.

Which is your favourite image from the last year’s Film Calendar? 

I love Reservoir Dogs. All the dogs look so cool and they’re such different characters. Also, Tombi totally looks like the leader of the pack she is!

Beans and Pickle are both rescue dogs. Do you think people should rescue rather than buy? 

There are so many dogs who desperately need homes and I’ve found it so rewarding giving homes to two dogs who’ve had such a rubbish start in life. If you’re patient and look hard enough, you can pretty much rescue any breed and any age.

QUICKFIRE QUESTIONS – TOMBI, PICKLE & BEANS:

Tombi does her best ‘come get me’ eyes in 2011′s Dogue Calendar shoot

Tombi: 

You’re 13 now. What’s the most valuable thing you’ve learnt in your life? 

No matter how much you bark at the bottom of a tree, the squirrel will never come back down

What would you do if you were Queen for a day? 

Unlimited rabbit warren access for all Jack Russells

Who spoils you more – Tuuli or Rankin?  

Rankin. I have him round my little claw

Not afraid a some male grooming, Pickle in Tuuli & Rankin’s Dogue Calendar 2011

Pickle:

What would be your last meal?

That’s hard. Either Squirrel or two cans of Lily’s Kitchen Goose and Duck Feast with Fruits

What’s Rankin’s worst habit?

Sleeping in my place on the bed

Who’s your ultimate style icon and why?

The Pink Panther, although he is a cat. Grrrrrr

Pickle & Beans star in Lady & the Tramp

Beans:

Describe yourself in 3 words? 

A bouncy, barky beastie

What’s your favourite film? 

Lady and the Tramp

Who’s your ideal man and why? 

Pickle, because he’s the ultimate Tramp

What a crew! I think I love them all……

ST

*All images courtesy of Rankin

Laura Southern with Bella (left) and Rudi (right)

StyleTails caught up with Laura Southern, Menswear Buyer at Topman with her two stunning Staffs, Bella and Rudi.

Two rather enthusiastic Staffies definitely make for a very interesting photo shoot. I caught up with the lovely Laura Southern, Menswear Buyer at Topman and her Staffies, Bella and Rudi for a hysterical shoot at the Hunter S. Pub in De Beauvoir. Full of beans, Bella and Rudi bounded into the pub, keen for hugs and vying for attention. Without much need for coercion, both happy hounds hopped up onto the sofa ready for their moment of glory.

Laura talks to StyleTails about her undying love for smiling Staffs and an unfortunate incident involving a Burberry bandana.

How did you get your start in fashion buying?

I didn’t go the traditional route through University, I actually started on the shop floor and worked my way into buying. Before Topman, I spent seven years at Asos which was really amazing being part of a company which achieved such successful growth. I recently moved to Topman to buy for concessions and brands.

Fashion buying always sounds like a dream job – getting paid to shop. Is it really all we dream of or is there plenty of hard work? 

I would be lying if I said it didn’t have its perks. You get to travel and see the world, meeting amazing people along the way which makes it so much fun. It does come with stress though as you’re responsible for a large budget and you have to make the right decisions about the product you buy.

What first inspired you to go into buying? 

Definitely my love of product. When I was working on the shop floor I knew I wanted to have the power to make decisions about what product was chosen for the customer. When you know a customer is happy with their purchase and keep coming back to buy again, you know you have succeeded.

What made you choose menswear over womenswear? 

My love of men’s clothing and brands – they are so much cooler and men are far more brand loyal. They are also easier to buy for because I can detach myself and see it purely as a business, without taking it personally. As long as you know who your customer is, then the rest just naturally follows.

Do you buy clothes for your boyfriend?

My boyfriend has is own style, which I like. I have tried to influence him in subtle ways but he has none of it, which is one of the reasons I find him so attractive – he won’t conform for anyone.

What’s your favourite menswear trend for the coming season? 

I love streetwear, always have done. It has been a focus for menswear for a long time, but now it’s so commercial. Nike Roshe Trainers teamed with a pair of shorts and a Stussy Tie Dye tee is a good look for summer.

Do you find inspiration for your own wardrobe from the menswear department? 

Yes! I am quite androgynous so I’ve always veered more towards mens styling. Oversized sweats, trainers, bomber jackets, that’s all I wear at the moment.

What’s your favourite thing in your wardrobe at the moment and why?

My Lazy Oaf Skull shirt, I wear it all the time. It’s such a cool quirky brand that don’t take themselves too seriously, which is what fashion should be all about.

What’s your worst fashion faux pas? 

Ha! I’ve had a lot I’m afraid. The worst was possibly the Burberry bandana phase back in the garage days.

Tell us about your gorgeous Staffies Bella & Rudi

Bella and Rudi are both are rescue dogs and the loves of my life. Bella is four and Rudi is two. I’ve had them both from puppies. They love each other so much, Bella looks after Rudi like a big sister.

What made you choose Staffies? 

I chose Staffies because I wanted to rescue and so many need good homes. They have such a bad reputation and I wanted to give them a chance. After growing up with all different kinds of breeds, I have to say that Staffies are by far my favourite.

Staffies get a lot of bad press, particularly in the UK. Do you think it’s fair? 

No of course not. It is totally unjustified as they are the most beautiful and gentle of breeds. There is no such thing as a bad dog but there are plenty of bad owners. It’s hard when people do not understand the breed and the benefits of owning a Staffie. They are historically known as The Nanny dog as they are so protective and loyal, especially with children.

What’s the best thing about owning Staffies? 

I love the way they smile! They make you feel so loved and they are real fun, they love to play and at night all they want is a cuddle.

QUICKFIRE QUESTIONS – Bella & Rudi: 

ST: Describe Rudi in 3 words 

Bella: Massive cry baby

ST: Describe Bella in 3 words 

Rudi: Fit, Unavailable, Cool

ST: What’s Rudi’s best feature? 

Bella: His bald patch, he’s self-conscious about it but I think it adds character

ST: What’s Bella’s worst habit? 

Rudi: She stares at people and makes them feel uncomfortable

ST: Who would play Rudi in a film of his life? 

Bella: The one and only Arnold Schwarzenegger, strong but sensitive

ST: What would you do if you were king for a day? 

Rudi: Every female would stop and pet me, not bothered about the geezers

ST: What’s on your ipod? 

Bella: Dj EZ, his latest set from the Boiler Room

ST: When was the last time you cried?

Rudi: To be honest, I never stop. I cant help it 

ST

The Refusal by Jo Longhurst: 12 Dogs, 12 Bitches

StyleTails spoke to Grange Prize winning artist Jo Longhurst and Thrill Engineer Brendan Walker, with their two willowy whippets Terence and Vincent.

To say that Jo Longhurst and Brendan Walker love Whippets would be a slight understatement. When Jo and Brendan came to own their two very cool canines – Terence and Vincent (Vinnie & Tel) 10 years ago, the pair became intrigued by the show scene and the breeder’s obsessive quest for perfection.

Using their own dogs as inspiration, Jo embarked on her acclaimed project - The Refusal, photographing and exploring the bloodlines British Show Whippets, while roping Brendan in for some glory in the ring along the way. I met this interesting little family on a freezing morning in Victoria Park to find how to rescue a Whippet off a window ledge and what it takes to scare yourself half to death.

Jo with Vinnie & Tel

ST: Your critically acclaimed 2008 project The Refusal uses the British Show Whippet as its subject. What originally inspired you to work with dogs in your art?

JL: Around the time we got Terence and Vincent, I applied to the Royal College of Art and I was thinking about my PhD project. We started going to dog shows with the Whippets and I became intrigued by the whole scene – the way the dogs were bred to an ideal standard and the breeder’s obsession with creating the the perfect dog. I was struck by  the way dogs were talked about and judged purely as physical specimens which seemed in total contrast with the traditional emotional attachments humans have with dogs. The Refusal was about exploring these human / dog relationships further and looking at this as a microcosm of human society.

The Refusal Part I, Jo Longhurst

ST: You worked very closely with the breeders on the project. Did you get the sense that the dogs enjoyed showing and competing? 

JL: Yes, aboslutely. It was a social event for them.

ST: The dogs look so perfectly still in the images – was it hard to get them to pose? 

No, they were incredibly compliant subjects – it must be the show ring training. My dogs were always really engaged and far better behaved when a camera was on them. They love the attention!

ST: You’re judging the Dog Photographer of the Year competition which launched at Crufts. What will you be looking for from the winning entry? 

Passion, engagement with the dog, something that captures the moment, or the human / dog relationship – not a technically sterile or cliched image.

Brendan and Vincent on show day

ST: You’ve been labeled a ‘thrill engineer’. How did you end up in the business of thrill?

BW: I started out as an aeronautical engineer and then went on to the RCA to study industrial design – I actually designed some pet products earlier in my career. I became quite fascinated with the dynamics of emotional experiences and published The Taxonomy of Thrill in 2005. From there I went on the work with theme parks looking at trends and futurology in rides – so basically, what will cause fear and anxiety for people in 10 years time.

ST: And?

A lot is to do with the idea of terror versus horror. Horror is specific and known, whereas the terror is the unknown which is scarier. There will also be more interactivity on rides – so spectators can control the ride as well.

ST: Is ‘thrill’ the same for everyone?

No, it’s deeply subjective. What thrills one person may not thrill the next – for example one person might be thrilled by cross-dressing, whereas shoplifting might do it for another. People also have varying degrees of sensitivity to things. It takes a lot to get a strong emotional response from some people whereas it can be very subtle for others.

ST: Are you easily thrilled?

Unfortunately no. Jo arranged for me to be tested for the ‘thrill gene’ which some people have. It means that it’s harder for you to get thrilled by things and therefore you feel you need to go to greater extremes to get a kick. I am one of those people.

ST: What’s the scariest ride you’ve ever been on?

BW: It actually wasn’t a ride – I went skydiving in California and chose the cheapiest, dodgiest company I could find. The plane looked like it was falling to bits and they were repairing the parachutes with a sewing machine when we arrived. My tandem instructor was a Korean guy who didn’t speak a word of English and the chute didn’t open properly on the way down. He eventually got it untangled but there was a moment when I really thought that was it for me.

ST: You like to build your own rides. What’s the strangest ride you’ve ever created? 

I created a ride in Hackney last year that involved people in swings with gas masks whose experience could be controlled by their breathing. That was quite odd. Strangely it didn’t get picked up by Thorpe Park.

Jo & Brendan’s Whippets Terence (Left) and Vincent (Right)

ST: What do you love about Whippets?

BW: They’re so affectionate. They love to curl up on the sofa with you like a cat, but they’re better than cats. They really feel like proper dogs – very athletic and so beautiful to watch when they run.

ST: Had you always wanted Whippets?

BW: We had originally wanted a Greyhound and we were searching around in rescues but they were just a bit too big for our lifestyle so Whippets seemed like the perfect alternative.

Did you set out to get two dogs together? 

BW: We had only planned to get one dog but as we were leaving with Vincent, Terence started running around the breeder’s garden and performing tricks for us. We figured he’d chosen us and we ended up going home with two dogs.

ST: What trouble have they got themselves into?

BW: Poor Terence has really been in the wars. He’s swallowed a battery, had his stomach pumped, managed to open a window of our second floor flat and climb out onto the ledge. He also lost one of legs after dislocated his shoulder jumping over a bench to bark at a passing Staffy.

How did you get him down off the ledge!? 

The entire street had congregated by this point and some people were holding a blanket in case he fell. Finally he realised he realised he could get back in the way he came out – through the window.

How dramatic

The Dog Photographer of the Year competition 2013 is now open for entries from budding photographers around the world, both amateur and professional. Enter via the Kennel Club’s website - entries close 31st August 2013

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StyleTails sat down with celebrity make-up artist, Michael Ashton and Managing Director of Insanity Group, Kirsty Williams along with Sir Maximilian, their rather regal pooch.

Owning a dog in a city can be a challenge – what with silly working hours, regular jaunts abroad and a healthy social life. After yearning for canine companionship in the big city for years, dog lovers and best friends, Michael Ashton and Kirsty Williams came up with the very nouveau idea of co-parenting. I caught up with this delightfully unique family to get the lowdown on Adele’s perfect liquid liner, that slit in Angelia’s Oscars gown and of course what it’s like to be co-parents of the devilishly handsome Sir Maximilian.

ST: You’ve been working with hugely successful recording artist Adele for 6 years. How did that come about?

MA: “I started working with Adele just prior to the release of her debut album ‘19’ when we were introduced through a mutual connection. I’m lucky to have been working with her since the beginning and it’s fantastic to have a client whose success is all about natural talent.”

ST: Apart from her amazing voice, Adele’s 60′s hair and make-up have become the signature of her look. Where did the inspiration originally come from and how has it evolved? 

MA: “Like with anything, a style evolves organically over time. Eyeliner has been a focus feature of her make up look since we started working together. She has beautiful almond shaped eyes which means she can carry any look, but I think the classic liquid liner is simple and striking, whilst at the same time just a little bit sexy.”

ST: How did you celebrate her recent wins at the Golden Globes? 

MA: “I had an early morning of business meetings the following day and then a flight back to London, so it was a glass of Pinot Noir and a relaxing bubble bath at my hotel – SO rock’n'roll ! ”

ST: Most of us can only dream of looking as flawless as stars on the red carpet. Make us feel better by telling us how long it takes to create a look for an awards night?

MA: “Depending on the client and the event you’re getting ready for, it can take anywhere between two to four hours, but that often includes allowing time for final dress alterations, jewellery decisions, manicures and body make up to ensure every last detail is picture perfect and ready for the cameras.”

ST: Share with us a trick of the trade that will change our (beauty) lives? 

MA: “Contouring and highlighting your face is the ultimate way of creating a truly three dimensional polish. Analyse your face in frontal low-lighting and see where you get natural shadows under the cheekbones, jawline and nose and then enhance these areas using either a contour powder or cream, or deeper shade of foundation. Once you’ve blended and shaded the areas, use a highlighting product to emulate the areas a spotlight would bounce light onto your face.”

ST: You and Kirsty co-parent Cavalier King Charles Spaniel – Sir Maximilian. How did the idea come about? 

MA: “I had wanted to get a dog for a while, but didn’t know how I could own a dog without having to give up the travel that comes with my job. Kirsty and I were discussing this over a Sunday lunch and it turned out she had been thinking the exact same thing. As we are great friends and live within 10 minutes of each other, we decided that co-parenting would be the perfect solution so that we had shared responsibility and our dog got the best of both worlds!

How did Sir Maximilian come into your lives? 

After deciding that we wanted to adopt a dog rather than getting one from a pet store or breeder, we went to Battersea Dogs & Cats Home to meet with the liaison manager there, Jane Warden. Within a few days 9 month old Sir Maximilian (formally known as Bailey) was heading to his new homes in West London.”

ST: You represent lots of celebrity clients at Insanity Group. What do you think gives some people the edge on others in terms of success and longevity in the industry?

KW: ”I’d say that longevity is probably a mixture of talent, integrity and the ability to grow and adapt with the industry. Success is also down to hard work. I’ve been managing TV Presenter and Fashion expert, Louise Roe, for 6 years now and I’ve never known someone to work as hard as Louise.”

ST: What advice would you give to people wanting to break into the entertainment industry? 

KW: ”Try and get as much work experience under your belt as possible. The industry is so varied, so I’d also suggest trying out different areas before focusing on one. You need to be tenacious without appearing OTT and do your research – I’m always impressed by people who appear to have done their homework.”

ST: What’s the most surreal situation you’ve ever found yourself in? 

KW: ”It would definitely be attending the Oscars last year with Louise Roe. Louise was hosting the Red Carpet pre-oscars show for the official broadcasters, ABC and I was stood to the side of Angelina when she pulled the famous pose in her black gown with her leg cocked to one side. From where I was standing, she looked very elegant!”

ST: Co-parenting is a very modern approach to pet ownership. Tell us a bit about how you and Michael make it work? 

KW: ”I’d say firstly, Michael and I are best friends. When entering into co-parenting you have to be able to trust and appreciate the other person. Michael is freelance which means Max lives with him most of the time, but when Michael has shoots and travels with his clients I will have Max.  He comes into the office with me which is great as all my colleagues adore him and he loves the attention. If we ever get stuck, and we’re both busy, we use James at Hyde Park Hounds who is brilliant with Max.”

ST: What advice would you give to people who are thinking about co-parenting? 

KW: “Ensure that you have been friends for a long while and that you know each others likes and dislikes. You have to be happy to compromise and understand that each others schedules may vary. It’s also great to have good friends close by in case you are ever away at the same time and need someone to look after your dog.

QUICKFIRE QUESTIONS: Sir Maximilian

What’s the best thing about spending your time between Kirsty and Michael? 

I’m lucky that unlike most other dogs I get to have two houses and two lovely big bed’s to sleep in. It also it means that I have twice as many friend’s who I can show my trick’s to.

What’s your most treasured possession? 

My most treasured possession would have to be the bespoke Zigwagz collar that was designed especially for me with my name ‘Sir Max’ on it and a crown – it’s fit for a king!

Describe your style in 3 words? 

Classic, Elegant, Regal.

Are you looking to make a foray into showbiz? Do you think you could be the next Uggie?

I really respect Uggie and everything he has accomplished in his career and I’m most definitely open to the idea. My doggie dream is to be the new face of Mulberry.

What’s your worst habit?

Daddy says I must have an itchy tongue as I’m always kissing EVERYONE, but I’m just an extremely friendly sort of gent or is it a cad ? Also sometimes my doggy pal Mr Falkor say’s I tweet too much, although it’s very important to keep our ‘Klout’ score’s up …….. so be sure to send us a message @1MagnificentMax @MrFalkor

What’s your favourite treat ?

I do like to be in peak physical condition, so my diet is very strict! On special treat day’s I get scrambled eggs with Udo’s Choice Ultimate Oil Blend added in my James Wellbeloved biscuit’s. Sunday’s are my favourite day of the week though as the lovely ladies that work at the pub give me roast chicken from the kitchen when no ones looking.

Who are your ultimate dinner party guests? 

‘Giggy The Pom’ from The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills, David Attenborough because he’s the king of animals and Chris Rock – he is the voice of Marty from my favourite film, Madagascar .

Open your little black book and tell us some of your favourite dog-friendly haunts in London? 

- The Elgin in Maida Vale

- The Bridge House in Little Venice

- The Paradise in Kensel Rise

- Alfies Antique’s Market in Marylebone

- Mandarin Oriental in Knightsbridge

ST

*Special thanks to Adrian and Tessa at The Elgin / Colin Taylor at Just Barking 

StyleTails speaks to the charming Rebecca Rose, owner of online vintage heaven - Juno Says Hello and her glamorous canine muse – Juno.

Seduced by the spellbinding glamour of old-school stars of the silver screen, Rebecca Rose turned her obsession with iconic vintage dresses into a full-time job. Founder of vintage heaven, Juno Says Hello, Rebecca scours the globe for unique pieces from the 1930′s through to the 1970′s, each one telling an exciting and intriguing story. Their stunning gowns have graced the red carpet at glittering events from The Academy Awards and the Emmy’s, to last year’s Royal Wedding. Don’t fret though, you don’t need to be celebrity to slip into one these little numbers – you can find your perfect party frock in their online boutique or by appointment in their Bloomsbury Showroom.

Despite her best attempts to convince me that her default setting is ‘slob’ until 5pm when she turns into 1940′s screen siren, Rebecca is the total embodiment of old school glamour – smart, funny and utterly charming. I sat down for tea and a tart with her and her Dachshund Juno at her Camden Flat to get the lowdown on being a lady.

What sparked your love of vintage? 

The glamour of old Hollywood movies has always captured my attention. Wearing vintage means you can explore the fashions of that time and wear a piece of history.

How did the idea for Juno Says Hello come about?

I realised that my obsession with vintage had become totally uneconomical! I only had one or two  dresses in the beginning but every time I wore them people would comment and girlfriends would ask to borrow them. It was really flattering. I was drawn into the vintage scene and if I found an amazing dress I would have to buy it – regardless of the size. It was at that point that I realised it was a totally unviable hobby – I couldn’t even wear half the dresses, so I had the idea of providing other women with access to these amazing gowns online.

What was the inspiration for concept? 

Juno Says Hello is inspired by actresses in classic films. I’m obsessed with watching clips from old movies and I love that moment in a scene when an actress just captivates you. We try to capture that energy and mystique when we buy pieces for the store.

What do your customers love about Juno Says Hello? 

Personal shopping can have very stuffy connotations and there’s always pressure to buy. We like to make the whole experience very informal and fun. People can pop into the studio with absolutely no obligation – have a glass of wine, bring their girlfriends and just have a laugh. I think a lot of people also believe that you can only wear vintage if you’re a petit little thing with a tiny ribcage, but it’s just not true. It was really important for me to offer beautiful vintage pieces to women of all shapes and sizes so we stock anything from size 4 to size 20.

What advice would you give women looking for beautiful vintage pieces? 

Definitely step outside your comfort zone. So many people come in with very rigid ideas about what they think will suit them.When we finally convince them to try something different and they see how it completely flatters their shape – they fall in love with it.

Your wardrobe must be immense. How do you decide what to wear every day!?

Before 5pm the default setting is slob. Once I finish at the studio and head back to the flat with Juno to get ready – that’s when I really switch into glamour mode. For me it’s all about cocktail dresses. I really wish I could pull off those beauitful women’s tuxedo’s but not with my shape!

Why do you think vintage has continued to be so popular? 

A lot of people love the history aspect. These are ‘action’ dresses – the kind of dresses things happen in. Did they go to a fabulous party? Get into a blazing row with their husband? Have an affair? It’s so mysterious and seductive. I think it’s also appealing to know that you’re wearing something very unique and there’s no danger anyone else will be wearing the same thing, which is always a worry when buying from the high street.

Did Mad Men spark a massive interest in vintage?

Yes, huge interest! So much beautiful fashion came out of that period, especially in the U.S. where a whole new class of professional was emerging after the war. The wives of these Madison Avenue men were expected to host glamorous parties and look the part. We have lots of people coming in to look for costumes for Mad Med parties and once they try them on, they love them so much they want to wear them all the time.

1960′s style inspiration – Betty and Don Draper in Mad Men

What’s been the most exciting stash of dresses you’ve come across for Juno Says Hello? 

Last year I found out about an estate in the U.S. that belonged a very successful professional woman who had passed away. When I saw the dresses, I took almost all of them and they absolutely flew out the door. I’ve never seen anything like it. They were just so beautiful – you almost wouldn’t know if they were modern designs or vintage. I also managed to get my hands on the same dress that Julianne Moore had worn in A Single Man which was very exciting. It was a limited edition and only about 40 were made.

Julianne Moore in A Single Man

How did your dog Juno come into your life?

Juno had belonged to an elderly couple and sadly the wife had passed away not long after they got her. The husband was understandably overwhelmed and not able to cope with the puppy so I gave her a new home. She was actually called Rose when I got her but my last name is Rose and I thought people might think I named her after me, so it became Juno.

QUICKFIRE QUESTIONS – JUNO

StyleTails talks table tennis tactics and Airdale Terriers with the wonderful Katie Greenyer, Creative Director of Red or Dead. 

You know you’re causing a scene when you’re trying to take a photo, only to turn around and find a whole crowd of people snapping away at your subject. “I’m not alone am I,” I said to Katie Greenyer as I photographed her and her two Airdale Terriers outside the Red or Dead 30th anniversary exhibition at the Truman Brewery. “No” she said trying to smile, while holding her dogs and attempting to ignore the 30 people now staring at her.

Having designed for some of fashion’s biggest names from Christian Lacroix to Vivienne Westwood, not to mention her foray into architecture and interiors, along with her famously ferocious table tennis skills, Katie Greenyer is a lady who likes a challenge. I sat down with her and her two gorgeous Airdale Terriers, 11 year old Dougal and two year old Evie, to get the lowdown on making friends with technology, London’s best vintage shopping and how to rescue a dog from the Thames.

You’re the Creative Director for quirky British brand, Red or Dead and have designed for some of the biggest names in fashion. How did you get your start? 

From an early age, I always knew that I wanted to work in fashion.  I used to sit under my dad’s drawing board and make sketches, but it wasn’t until 1989 that I escaped Essex to start my degree in Fine Art Printed Textiles at Liverpool School of Art.  During my time there I stalked Wayne Hemingway until he buckled and offered me some freelance work creating prints and graphics for Red or Dead.

You’re responsible for many of the quirky, colourful and humorous prints Red or Dead are famous for. How have you seen the design process change? 

My god it’s so different now. When I first started out, I sketched and cut everything myself by hand. I spent hours in Colchester Library researching and putting stuff together. The photocopier was my best friend. I knew every button on every model! It could take you days to create a design working with photos and tracing paper and putting it into repeat by hand. I remember being given my first Mac when Pentland bought Red or Dead in 1996. I spent two months just starting at it thinking – you and I are not going to get along. Now you can create a design and variations of the that design in a matter of hours with a few clicks of a button.

Have you made friends with you Mac now? 

Yes, but to be honest, if I’m starting work on a new project and I want it to be really amazing, I still like to go through the old process. Go to the library, do some research and pull the concept together. Although technology is great, I think it makes us lazy and we inevitably end up all producing the same old shit. If you want to create something different, you have to get up from your desk, get off the internet and go and find your inspiration somewhere else.

Where do you get your inspiration from?

It comes from everywhere, honestly! I love trawling through car boot sales. You ask my husband – I come home with so much crap it’s unbelievable.

Any good car boots you can recommend? 

There are some amazing car boot sales on the way to Clacton-on-Sea. There’s one on the McDonalds roundabout that has so much good stuff. The people just don’t know how good it is and write it off. If you’re into vintage shopping, there are also some brilliant shops between Richmond and St Margarets. I ended up there one day when our house boat was moored in Kew and felt like I’d struck gold. I came out with a whole bounty of stuff that cost me next to nothing. I think there’s lots of posh ladies who lunch around there who throw out designer stuff way too early.

You were asked by Pentland to work on the design of their new HQ (a rather impressive space including tennis courts, swimming pool and gym). How was it taking on such a major project? 

I didn’t have any architectural and interior design experience so it was really daunting to begin with. I worked really closely with the architects GHM Rocktownsend, although I did ignore more of what they said. It was definitely challenging but I love projects that scare you. When you keep doing stuff your good at, it gets boring. Doing something like this really makes you feel alive again. I think it’s good to have that feeling – you’re so scared it might turn out shit, so you work extra hard to make sure it’s amazing.

Tell us something we don’t know about you?

I was the Essex under 16′s girls table tennis champion. I’m actually having a table tennis tournament around my place this weekend. I have three friends and their husbands coming over.

Why did you quit an illustrious career in table tennis for fashion? 

I discovered boys. Boys didn’t like being beaten so I had to quit playing them at table tennis so they’d snog me.

How did you end with Airdale Terriers and what do you love about them? 

My Mum had an Airdale called Ben which she got to replace me when I went off to Uni. They’re so gentle and caring like lovely big Teddy bears. Plus like all dogs, they love you no matter what. Even when you’ve had a bad day and been horrible to people, you get home and they jump all over you and say ‘ I LOVE YOU MUMMY!!!’

Tell us a bit about Evie and Dougal

Evie is two – we got Evie on Christmas eve  and she was just this fat little ball of fuzz. I didn’t know what to call her and the most original thing I could come up with was Evie.  Poor Dougal is eleven now and he’s going blind and deaf and has lost most of his teeth. We used to live on a house boat but Dougal fell off the side one night into the Thames in the middle of December. The silly thing didn’t event bother trying to swim and just sank. I jumped in after him and pulled him out but it was absolutely freezing. My husband came out and said, “What the hell are you doing!?’ To which I replied “We fancied a swim!” After that we decided we’d better live on dry land.

QUICKFIRE QUESTIONS – Evie & Dougal

ST:  How would you describe Dougal in 3 words?

Evie: Blind, no teeth, quite frankly he’s falling apart.

ST: How would you describe Evie in 3 words?

Dougal: DISHY! DISHY! DISHY!

ST: Who would play Dougal in a film of his life?

Evie: Sean Penn, cos he’s a bit dodgy looking

ST: What’s Evie’s worst habit?

Dougal: She’s a ditch diver. She dives into  fox poo, road kill, dirt, mud or anything generally smelly and disgusting

ST: Where are some of your favourite places to hang out?

Evie: We love the Woolpack Pub on Bermondsey Street. They give us biscuits and ham!

ST: What would you do if you were King for a day?

Dougal: Eat loads of sausages, mash and gravy. I’d get myself a nice set of false teeth too and finish my look off with a cravat.

ST: Who’s your ideal man?

Evie: Definitely Bear Grylls. We’d go adventuring together and I’d forage for slugs and smelly things for us to eat. He’s fit.

ST

StyleTails caught up with Lee Lapthorne, the man behind some of the most spectacular fashion shows to chat about his thoughts on the future of catwalks and his musings on life with a hungry Beagle. 

Lee Lapthorne must dread the inevitable question, “So, what do you do?” Having produced hundreds of catwalk shows for some of Britain’s best design talent including Gareth Pugh, Peter Pilloto, Zandra Rhodes and Jasper Conran with his company Doll,  launched  On| Off, an international platform bridging the gap between on and off schedule designers and designed his own line of accessories – it’s pretty obvious the man likes to keep busy. I popped to his Newburgh Street office for a chat with him and his lovely Beagle Erin.

How did you get your start in fashion? 

I was studying for my MA in Textiles when I met the amazing Zowie Broach from Boudicca who at the time took an interest in my work. She invited me to assist her on a Suede video for their Filmstar track. She said I had a great eye for casting and suggested I have a go at catwalk production. Emma Cook was my first show and it snowballed from there.

You’ve worked on shows for some of the UK’s biggest designers. Which has been your favourite? 

I loved working with Robert Cary Williams, as he is such a HUGE character, very eccentric and talented individual. We worked together on his acclaimed “ice dress” show, and his show featuring a live horse.

What do you think makes a show memorable?

It’s about connecting with the audience and giving them a truly heightened experience. A show that projects and touches people’s soul from the moment they arrive to when they leave. Building tension and then showcasing theatre through music, great models, hair and make up, styling and finding a great space; that all helps communicate the essence of the designer, brand and collection.

What’s been the maddest idea you have pitched to a client?

The UK launch of the Range Rover Evoque car. The client gave my team and I the opportunity to be as creative as we possibly wanted to. The brief was to create “hysteria” and a WOW factor. I pulled a fantastic team together of lighting, motion graphics, dancers, choreographers, stylist and fashion designers. We directed and produced a 25 minute show that the audience thought was going to be an average PowerPoint presentation.

The powerpoint visually failed onscreen in front of their eyes. We then rotated the seating deck 180 degrees, flew the walls back (which were a projection system) and took the audience on a 360 degree experiential feast of visuals, catwalk models, ballerina, street dancers and acrobats – free runners, ending with the grand finale of the screens flying out and revealing the cars.

Where do you see the future of catwalk shows? 

Catwalk shows are now beamed across the globe as they are happening by live streaming. They have to become more theatrical to capture an on line audience as viewers being able to make instantaneous sales will soon become common place. Shows filmed for buyers and press which then showcase on the internet via video on demand, that truly capture the essence of the clothes will be the answer for emerging designers to raise sales and press.

Tell us a bit about your On|Off concept 

I created On|Off in 2003 to bridge the gap between on and off schedule designers, becoming the first of its kind. Over the past 17 seasons, On|Off has attracted some of the most exciting international fashion designers (over 300) including: Peter Pilotto, Pam Hogg, Louise Gray, Zandra Rhodes, Gareth Pugh, Osman and Mark Fast. In most cases, On|Off offered these designers their first international platform.

As if you weren’t busy enough, you also design a range of ties and scarves. What motivated you to launch the range?

I have an MA with distinction in Textiles. About 4 years ago made myself a scarf and industry key figures kept asking me where it was from. When Selfridge’s staff asked and showed interest to buy, I thought I should give it a go. I LOVE being in the print studio and I’ve just built one in my garden. Lee Lapthorne pieces have been worn by Jessie J, Louis Smith, Jo Whiley and Paloma Faith.

What advice would you give to young designers? 

To take your time, build sales in international stockists and only have a catwalk show once you are financially secure, as they are so expensive to produce. Stay true to yourself and never give up.

Have you always been a dog lover? Tell us a bit about your Beagle Erin.

Yes, I’d always wanted a dog and begged my parents as a child for one, but they both worked full time so we couldn’t. It wasn’t until I bought my own flat with a garden that I was in a position to finally get a dog. I asked my Grandma’s advice and she said YES YES go ahead.

What are Beagles like as a breed?

I wanted a ‘real’ solid dog and a Beagle seemed the ideal. Erin fitted into my hand when I got her, her ears dragged along the floor. People warned me that I’d never be able to train a Beagle and that she would be a nightmare. But far from it – Erin travels most days with me from our Essex country cottage by train and tube into the office on Newburgh Street.

She is of course obsessed with food (being a hound), but she listens and is clever enough to know when to behave. She is like a teddy bear, offering hugs and cuddles which keeps me sane in the madness of the turbulent world of fashion. She is cheeky and great fun too – she makes Londoners smile on their daily commute.

QUICKFIRE QUESTIONS – ERIN

 How would you describe yourself in 3 words?

Loving, conscientious and mischievous

How would you describe Lee in 3 words?

Loving, strict and fun

You’re a veteran fashion hound. I bet you have some stories to tell. Spill?

I once ate the packed lunch from the handbag of the head of marketing of L’Oreal when she was in to see Lee regarding On|Off sponsorship. I’ve appeared on various TV shows, including recently Channel 4’s Human Mannequin and Grandma’s back in Business. I’ve met various famous fashion people including Erin O’Connor my names sake, Jessie J, Nicola Roberts, Tuuli, Pam Hogg and Mark Fast.

What do you think it takes to cut it as a dog in the fashion industry?

To become truly nonchalant and to seemingly ignore the famous and celebrities to make them work hard to grab ones attention (unless they have food!)

You go to work with Lee in Soho most days. Where are some of your favourite (dog friendly) places to hang out?

I love the Society Club Bookshop Gallery and Café on Ingestre Place. Many more places should allow my fellow dogs and I to hang out and socialize over a cuppa tea or a pint like they do in Paris.

Who would be your ideal man?

I’d love to go hunting with Oliver Skeete for a few minutes and then he would have to carry me sidesaddle.

We love you Erin!

Stockists for Lee’s collection can be found at www.leelapthorne.com

ST

StyleTails speaks to the gorgeous Apphia Michael, Online Fashion Editor at design and style bible Wallpaper* and her very handsome Whippet Marlowe.

Elegant, sleek, stylish. They say that some dogs take after their owners (or is it the other way around?), which in the case of a pug, is not always a compliment. In the case of Apphia Michael and her gorgeous Whippet Marlowe, it is very much so.

The Online Fashion Editor at Wallpaper* and self-confessed animal nut (we spent at least 3 hours talking about dogs, cat, rabbits and anything else we could muster up), sat down with me at her stunning flat in Exmouth Market to talk about her schizophrenic approach to interior design, tips for keeping a whippet warm (Toy Story fleece Pyjamas as it turns out) and undescended testicles. I know you’re intrigued. Read-on……………….

You have the very fine job of Online Fashion Editor at Wallpaper*. Have you always been interested in style and design?

I decided on my career when I was twelve! I remember saving up my lunch money to buy ‘contraband’ copies of Vogue and Just Seventeen in primary school in Singapore (my god-fearing parents would not have been best pleased as I clearly wasn’t 17 or in a position to be enlightened about tantric sex and other adult things). It just seemed like another world that I always wanted to be a part of, and I love writing, so it’s the perfect job.

Who inspires your style?

Film and book characters like Gena Rowlands in John Cassavetes’ Minnie & Moskowitz and Mia Farrow in Rosemary’s Baby. But if I had to pick a real person, it would be Emmanuel Alt (Editor-in-Chief of Vogue Paris)– I’m a bit obsessed with her right now.

You’ve just finished the whirlwind that is the fashion season. What was your favourite moment at London Fashion Week?

Well, there were loads of great London shows this season – Christopher Kane, Jonathan Saunders, J.W. Anderson, Mary Katrantzou – but I think if I had to pick a ‘moment’ it would be: Sitting under the glass-canopied roof of Burberry’s Kensington Gardens show space, listening to Tom Odell’s ‘Another Love’ belting out, watching the very professional–looking video camera zooming from one end of the catwalk to the other so the show could be live–streamed around the world; basically taking in the whole fashion spectacle and thinking, ‘I get paid to do this job, poor me.’

So, what’s in store for Spring Summer 2013 (It’ll make us feel better about the winter approaching)?

Metallics, metallics, metallics.

Your biggest fashion faux pas?

White tights

Yikes!

You’ve got a beautiful flat. How would you describe your taste in interiors? 

Schizophrenic. It used to be shabby-chic, then it went all mid-century modern; now I think if I could, I’d live in a big glass box in a forest and deck it out with clean, minimal furniture. So the answer to that second question is, everywhere!

Most people don’t know but you’re a dab hand at flower arranging and even did the flowers for your own wedding. What tips would you give to budding florists? (errr pardon the pun)

My mother is big on flowers – we always have them at home. She used to do friends’ weddings as a hobby and she’d drag me along as her little helper when I was a child. I seem to be going down the same route, but with my dog? I love the look on Marlowe’s face when his living room space is being invaded by buckets of hydrangeas.

My tip is to be prepared to get up at 4am (when the flower market comes to life), invest in a really warm coat (it’s freezing at 4am) and try to remember when you’ve been stabbed for the tenth time by a rogue thorn that it’ll all look beautiful in the end.

Family Portrait: Apphia with her husband George and Whippet Marlowe

You and your husband George were foster carers for Action for Dogs in Singapore.  How was that experience and was it hard to say goodbye to the dogs once they found homes?

It was a bit mental. We had three puppies at one stage! It was painful saying goodbye to one of the dogs because we’d had her for a year and she still hadn’t found a home by the time we had to move back to London. But I guess it was really good practice for having a dog of our own, and actually even choosing a dog that would suit our lifestyles. So many people choose certain breeds because they like the look of them, but don’t think past what that breed actually needs.

Marlowe’s a handsome chap. Tell us about him?

When we moved back to London from Singapore we settled into Broadway Market where we decided we wanted a dog of our own. I’ve always loved whippets and they’re the perfect dog for working couples – they practically sleep at home all day like cats, are really independent, and only need a burst of exercise in the form of a 30 minute run each day.

He’s five years old now and he comes from a line of show whippets, but we’ve never shown him because he had to have his balls chopped off when he was a puppy due to an undescended testicle which might have turned cancerous if left to its own devices – nice!

He loves nothing more than to make a nest on our bed and sleep in what whippet owners call the ‘cockroach’ pose (on their backs with their arms and legs dangling in the air).

QUICK-FIRE QUESTIONS – Marlowe

Describe your style in three words?

Boy meets girl

Which label most epitomises your style and why?

Trussardi by Umit Benan. Because I commend any label that casts greyhounds / whippets in its fashion shows. (Also, the clothes strike a balance between luxury and free-spirited nonchalance, like me. Okay… my mistress told me to say that bit).

You live near Exmouth Market in Farringdon. Where do you like to hang-out?

Our garden sniffing and rolling in fox poo (yummm, love this so much!), chasing a tennis ball in the football field at Barnsbury park (I try to avoid eye contact with any other dogs, which is problematic, as it’s a park for dogs), sniffing the bins on Chapel Market, Hampstead Heath (where my dog walker takes me every day to play, rain or shine), the Royal Oak on Columbia Road (but only if I get to lie out of reach from people and on lots of soft coats).

Who’s your ideal woman and why?

Someone who understands that I need to sleep for 23 hours a day, because I need to sleep for 23 hours a day. But really, it would have to be another whippet, someone elegant who I could stare at all day, who I could share my sofa with, but who also can out-run me in the park. A Bonnie to my Clyde, when it comes to stealing food….

What’s on your ipod?

Bach (or Bark, get it?!)

What’s Apphia and George’s worst habit?

Sitting on my sofa and sleeping in my bed. This is an error. Okay, technically it’s their sofa, and the bed is meant for humans to sleep in, but still….

Describe your ideal day? 

Sleep – eat – sleep – run – sleep – eat – sleep

Shut the door please. I’m getting my beauty sleep.

Exhausted from the gruelling interview, Marlowe was quick to slip into his fleecy PJ’s and turn out the light.

Night

ST

Eric with Jimmy (left) and Rosie. PHOTO: Dan Burn-Forti for Saga Magazine

StyleTails caught up with a man who knows his Boss from his Boateng. Eric Musgrave, former Editor-in-Chief of fashion bible Drapers and author of Sharp Suits talks to StyleTails about proper dogs and the perfect suit.

Having worked with Eric for some time, I can confirm that the man is an adventurous dresser. Not one to blend in, Eric fully embraces a brightly coloured corduroy (I believe I’ve seen him in both pink and red – possibly at the same time) and a pair of statement glasses. Given his penchant for fancy threads, it’s just as well that his career aspirations led him from teaching to fashion journalism. Having started his fashion journalism career at Drapers Record in 1980, returning to the title in 2000 as editor-in-chief, Eric is a stalwart of the UK fashion scene. One thing I didn’t know about him however is that the man is mad about dogs. Not just any dogs though – the elegant whippet and lurcher are his canines of choice. I caught up with Eric and his beauties – Saluki Lurcher Jimmy and Whippet Lurcher Rosie to talk treats and tailoring.

You’ve edited some of the most important fashion trade press in the UK. How did you end up in fashion journalism?

I actually thought I wanted to be a teacher. I did a degree in history but lost interest in that along the way and ended up taking two gap years after I graduated – basically messing around.  Eventually my mother told me it was time to get a proper job. The only thing I could think I wanted to do at the time was journalism. It wasn’t easy or glamorous. The only job I could get was as a press officer for Butlin’s Holidays and had no joy at all getting into newspapers. Eventually I found a way in through trade magazines. I joined Drapers Record as a Junior Reporter on 28 January 1980. By 1985 I was the Launch Editor for one of the first of the modern-era style mags for men, For Him Magazine (later FHM), which was at the time a UK version of Esquire, underpinned by style and wardrobe advice for men. I ended up moving around to various UK and European fashion press but eventually found myself back at Drapers where I was Editor-in-Chief from 2000 to 2006. I have been a freelance writer since then.

You wrote Sharp Suits, an examination and celebration of the modern suit. What makes the perfect suit?

Everything has got to be balanced – there must be symmetry. It starts with a well fitting collar and shoulders. If this is wrong, then nothing else will be right. I remember John-Paul Gautier playing with proportions and it looked comical. It must be balanced.

What advice would you give men who are looking to buy a suit?

Invest in a bespoke suit. I’ve never regretted buying a good suit so, for me, bespoke is the best way to go. It’s made entirely to your measurements and will last you for 20 or 30 years.  A top-quality  ready-to-wear designer-name suit can cost up to £2,000 whereas you can pay £3,000 for bespoke, which is made to your specifications. We have some of the best tailors in the world on Savile Row, which I think represent good value for money. Another good option for suits is made-to-measure, which lots of menswear retailers and brands offer now from about £400.

Are men interested in fashion?

It’s a myth that men aren’t interested in fashion. Whatever they are wearing, they have thought about it. I noticed a few years back how many men were wearing pink. Not just the fashion-forward men, but all sorts of men. That trend filtered right through. Men are also being more adventurous with bright colours, although I do think that in general men would rather blend in. Most people want to be accepted, whereas other people like me like to stand out so my tastes are definitely more adventurous. I always try to seek out interesting garments that other people don’t have.

What have been your favourite eras in fashion?

I like the 1930′s a lot – it was very elegant. The 1960′s was definitely a sharper look with more attitude. I like to see a three piece suit with a nice tie and pocket hanky.

What are you into right now?

I’ve recently become quite interested in hats. I’ve become that old guy with a flat cap and whippet. Being a Yorkshireman, it was a look I’d always tried to avoid.

Eric’s Saluki Lurcher Jimmy AKA Jimmy Chew

What do you love about whippets and lurchers?

Whippets and lurchers are proper dogs; they look athletic like they were built to do a job. When we first thought about getting a dog I really didn’t think my wife would like them because they’re so thin.  When she saw the dogs, she totally fell in love. They’re also fantastically affectionate and beautifully natured.

Is it a challenge to give them all the exercise they need?

It’s a myth that they need a lot of exercise. They run flat out for 20 minutes then sleep all afternoon. They do like to chase livestock though which is a bit of  problem.

Are they naughty dogs?

Rosie is like a shadow. She sneaks upstairs and eats all the cats’ food, totally unheard. They’re also quite tall which means that they are able to steal food off the table or the kitchen work surfaces. They have carried off everything from spaghetti bolognese to cream cakes.

Jimmy, Rosie and Eric drop in to designer Richard James’ offices on Savile Row