LA CONFIDENTIAL | Q & A: DESIGNER GEORGE ALLEN CLINTON

George Allen Clinton’s eponymous George Clinton brand encompasses everything from ready-to-wear formal pieces, to bespoke suits crafted for the likes of Jason Statham and Joseph Gordon Levitt. We caught up with the talented tailor / stylist / designer in his West Hollywood studio to chat about current trends, his favorite star to work with, and the one suit every man should own.

What’s your fashion philosophy?

It all begins with sourcing the finest materials from around the globe – whether that’s the whole of a Shetland pony from Scotland, the luxe long hair of an alpaca from New Mexico, or the finest cashmere from Tibet. When you pair those materials with precision fit and quality design, you attain an infallible piece of luxury clothing.

What trends are you seeing in suiting right now?

Besides the classic luxe slim tailored look, there’s an emergence of a worn-in and shrunken body contoured silhouette, leaning on the steampunk era of the early 1900’s. The colors are more foggy and watered down. The other main direction in menswear is a nod to the ’80s – an exaggeration of colors, shapes, and volume.

Why go custom versus buying off the rack?

As a bespoke customer, you have the opportunity to freely express yourself and your individuality. I will guide you in fabric selection, color studies, and in developing your own personal style. Basically, I facilitate you becoming your own designer.

Any favorite celebrities you’ve dressed?

Hands down Zac Efron! I love his subtle way of pushing the fashion envelope. I’ve been struck by his knowledge of shapes, colors, and materials, in addition to his deep appreciation for true craftsmanship.

What would you change about the LA fashion scene?

As much as I love LA and its casual lifestyle, I don’t understand why men can’t reach for a soft, worn, tailored shirt to wear with their jeans instead of a ripped t-shirt or sweater. My goal is to inspire a new luxe-casual trend, one man at a time.

If a man is going to have one go-to suit, what should it be?

There is no such thing as just one suit! Every occasion requires a different mood. However, to close the gap, go for a great slim-fitting three-piece suit in a deep olive or charcoal gray with a subtle multicolored plaid, be it navy, black or aubergine. With the right shirt, you’ll be able to look polished and appropriate for any occasion.

With formalwear, what’s the best way to stand out at an event?

Let the fabric speak for itself with a subtle sheen or an unusual shadow stripe. My favorite look for this season’s formalwear harkens back to the first half of this century – be it the dandy of the ’20s in his three-piece tuxedo or the always impeccably dressed Cary Grant of the ’40s. The most important way to stand out in a formal occasion, however, is to always be aware of your posture and be a gentleman!

Los Angeles Confidential | 05.06.2013

By Alexandra Calamari