Gok Wan

Gok Wan

From issue 4, Autumn 2009

Worrying about how to look fab for less? Never fear because Gok Wan is at hand to offer advice on looking good on a budget.

What advice would you give to people who are shopping for clothes and want to save a bit of money?
I would say make sure that any piece you’re buying can be worn with a minimum of three outfits – if it’s a top, it needs to go at least with a skirt, a pair of trousers and a pair of jeans. It’s just about being slightly more careful with what you buy and taking slightly longer to shop. The disposable clothing days are over. The last couple of years we’ve gone mad, it’s got a bit ridiculous, and now we need to be a bit more careful. Our choices need to be far more informed. I’m here not only to fix you from a fashion point of view, but also to give you those insider secrets that allow you to be your own stylist.

What kind of secrets are you talking about?
The idea of successfully mixing textures, fabrics, colours, different genres of fashion, different kinds of look. The idea that you can get a day look and dress it up or dress it down with accessories. It’s pick and mix fashion.

So you don’t need a new wardrobe every season?
Absolutely not. Get your capsule wardrobe and then just add to it every now and again. It’ll save you money in the long run.

Do you ever buy clothes from charity shops?
I do. In fact the leather jacket I’m wearing today cost me £3.50. I got it in Edinburgh – thank you very much Edinburgh – and it’s one of my favourite items of clothing. It’s one of the jackets I wear that people say “Oh my God, I love it, where’s it from?” “£3.50 baby!”

Who are your favourite designers?
On the high street I love what Top Shop is producing at the moment. They’re in their element. And also I think Mango are giving them a bit of a run for their money. Their stuff’s great, it’s really really clean and beautiful.

You do love what you do, don’t you?
I love it, I absolutely love my job, it’s brilliant. I get to play dress up every single day – the world is one big dressing up box. It’s fabulous.