James Andrew at home - photo Gabriel Everett

Legendary designers like Albert Hadley, David Hicks, Billy Baldwin and fashion/lifestyle icons like the Duke of Windsor, Gianni Agnelli and Lapo Elkann, all continue to have a huge influence on my thinking. If one were compelled to draw a defining lesson from these ultimate taste makers, I think it would be “great style is always in fashion.” While it’s a slogan that’s been bandied about a bit on the inter-webs in one form or another, it’s an idea that I’ve been considering as I field questions regarding trends and fashion. Granted, we all have outside influences, and I’ve made no mystery about mine, but I do refuse to blindly follow trends in design or in dress, preferring to be more “stylish” than “in style.” While the distinction may seem a bit semantic, I hope our readers see there is indeed a difference. Much in our society has become disposable, I think that is a given, but one doesn’t necessarily need to march to the prevailing drum. I personally want to be able to enjoy a favorite jacket, a comfortable sofa (occasionally reupholstered of course) , or some other accessory, twenty years down the line!

Referencing a photo of Diane Vreeland perched on her sofa (one of my favorite fashion pundits), I’m sporting a Tom Ford rustic charcoal wool silk mouline priest hat tweed “country jacket” with leather buttons and brown suede patches, white cotton shirt with French cuffs, teal and black hounds tooth cashmere silk tie, teal corduroy pant, teal and navy silk pocket square, Tom Ford era Gucci brown suede loafers, aquamarine and diamond cuff links, Gucci python belt my fragrance is Creed Windsor.

James Andrew, Top of the Rock. photo by Gabriel Everett

Over the years, teachers, guides, and gurus have all espoused the idea that we form our reality through the thoughts we have, and that we can become what we most want in this very moment. Of course, maintaining an elevated attitude and vision is not always an easy thing to do—I, for instance, do have some rather grand plans after all, and sometimes my bank account doesn’t exactly cooperate! So one needs a lot of determination to move forward despite these apparently less than perfect conditions, listening to our thoughts and beliefs along the way, encouraging the positive ones, and letting go of the detrimental ones.

I, for one, choose to believe that our reality can change in an instant.

I’ve had some “down-to-soup” days in my life—and that can be pretty scary, but rather than go to a place of fear and panic, I somehow always found a way to be at peace, and to have a kind of “knowing” that things would work out perfectly—magically it seems, and in some instances, quite immediately, I would get a call or email from a client saying, “let’s do this or that now, come and collect a check” —problem solved and I’m back on the path of abundance!

I like the idea that our thoughts create our reality—want to be a millionaire? Think like one, feel like one, and why not dress the part while you’re at it to really fill out the picture? This can go a long way toward attracting the right kinds of conditions to make opportunities happen—and at the very least, I think we can all agree that it’s simply better to feel better!

Recently I was feeling a bit off, and, sensing a gloomy mood coming on, I decided it was definitely the right time to shift gears. I put on one of my more spectacular suits, met friends at the Four Seasons for drinks, and then had a lovely dinner at Blue Smoke. To elevate the mood even further, we followed all this up with an inspiring visit to the glorious “Top of the Rock” observation deck at Rockefeller Center. If you haven’t been there, then you must go. If you’ve already been, then it’s worth revisiting. There’s a palpable sense of possibility when taking in the view from this perch high above the city—it’s a top-of-the-world feeling that leaves me feeling invigorated and renewed—inspired to press on in the pursuit of my most lofty dreams and desires!

Inspired at the “Top of the Rock,” I’m sporting a Tom Ford era Gucci black cashmere top coat, the most sensational Tom Ford three piece suit in charcoal wool cashmere Prince of Wales plaid, checked cotton shirt with French cuffs, a Glen plaid cashmere silk tie, black and saddle leather loafers, black pearl cuff links, Turnbull and Asser black and gray silk polka dot pocket square, Rolex Oyster perpetual watch, and my fragrance is Creed Royal-Oud.

James Andrew at the Mandarine Oriental Spa - photo Gabrial Everett

I’ve been accused of having my own Dorian Gray portrait hidden away somewhere to absorb my many indulgences, but the truth is, I keep my years at bay with healthy foods, a youthful attitude, and, of course, a top notch skin-care regimen.

Which brings me to facials. When only the absolute best treatment will do, the Opulent Rejuvenesence facial given at The Mandarin Oriental Hotel Spa wins hands down.

The Opulent Rejuvenesence facial is an intensive, two hour, anti-aging treatment that incorporates result-driven Beauty by Clinica Ivo Pitanguy products developed by Dr. Ivo Pitanguy, famed Brazilian cosmetic surgeon to celebrities, royalty, and socialites around the world, proven to boost collagen and give the skin a more youthful appearance.

James Andrew - under the able hands of the fantastic Fini at The Mandarin Oriental Hotel Spa

These facials are administered with some seriously state of the art equipment (e.g., rotary brushes, an opal sonic infuser, and a high frequency current wand), and really have a long lasting and cumulative effect.

Of course, the proof is in the pudding, so to speak—during an after spa luncheon, my friends all insisted that I must have received Botox and Restylane injections (which I had not). Needless to say, I’ve sold them on the Opulent Rejuvenesence facial!

WIJW recommends The Vip Room at the Mandarin Oriental Spa

Feeling particularly radiant, I’m captured (top) on the 35th Floor spa at the Mandarin, sporting a Tom Ford suit jacket in a olive wool silk tweed over check and silk pocket square, Tom Ford era Gucci ivory cashmere turtleneck sweater and J Brand jeans, vintage Rolex oyster perpetual watch, tan leather tasseled loafers by Gucci and my fragrance is Creed Royal Water.

James Andrew at Grand Central - photo Gabriel Everett

A camel hair jacket is one of those must-have staples in a gentleman’s wardrobe. The marvelously neutral color and super luxurious fabric makes it hugely handy in both top coat and sport coat incarnations, and can complete any number of different looks. Whether you are going super casual, (pairing camel hair with jeans and a cream cashmere turtleneck for instance), or doing something dressier, (say with a fab shirt and tie), a camel hair jacket will ad a perfect touch of uber wasp chic and proven historical precedence to your well considered ensemble. From the board room to the playboy mansion and beyond, a good camel hair jacket will take you there!

I’m sporting a Tom Ford version of this iconic jacket, i.e., a tailored “Country Jacket” in camel silk cashmere twill with suede accents, cotton plaid shirt, silk knit tie, brown wide wale corduroy pants, saddle leather loafers, vintage moon stone cuff links, Rolex oyster perpetual and brown and camel silk pocket square, Gucci double horse head buckle python belt and my fragrance is Creed Himalaya.

James Andrew - photo Gabriel Everett

When decorating a client’s home, I try to insist on the best possible quality materials and workmanship. However, even the wealthiest of my clients has a budget! With that in mind, I’ve found one can still achieve superior results with modest materials by applying a high level of craftsmanship and design. For example, I might seek out a simple cotton/linen and trim them in gross grain ribbon to produce some rather spectacular looking curtains. It’s a high/low approach. The same goes with my wardrobe. I have no problem mixing no-compromise brands like Tom Ford and Savile Row tailoring with basic items from Uniqlo like jeans and sweaters. Uniqlo, in fact, produces some quite well made/designed basics in fantastic colors. I often wear Uniqlo jeans and a cashmere sweater paired with a Tom Ford jacket and shoes for a super stylish yet casual high/low ensemble.

Enjoying a snowy afternoon shopping at Uniqlo and the Tom Ford boutique, I’m sporting a Gucci tweed top coat and brown wool hand knit sweater, Uniqlo jeans, Le Chameau wellies, Sermoneta dark green leather gloves. My fragrance is Creed Bois du Portugal.

James Andrew at Stephen Score's Metro Show booth

During my time as a designer for Parish Hadley, the emphasis was on marrying pieces that shared a “sympathetic spirit,” rather than matching periods and styles. Needless to say, this approach allowed for some wonderfully playful and unexpected juxtapositions, and was very much at the heart of Parish Hadley’s most innovative and dynamic interiors.

Happily you’ll find a similar approach at the inaugural Metro Show where dealers and designers have brought together an exciting and eclectic mix of fine collectibles from a wide degree of time periods and styles, both new and old. In fact, it may surprise many to know that this is not a particularly new design trend! As Leigh Keno notes, “… the term ‘modern’ apparently originated in the late 16th century. Even in the early 17th century, a room filled with ‘modern’ furniture and accoutrements very often had ‘antiquities’ mixed in, whether collected or inherited.”

Wherever your specific interests may lie, I’m certain you’ll find some tantalizing object to admire at the marvelous NYC Metro Show. But hurry, it’s only open until Sunday January 22 (the Metropolitan Pavilion, 125 West 18th Street, NYC). I had the great pleasure of exploring the show’s special preview, and I was so thrilled with the selection that I’ll be returning this weekend with some of my clients in tow.

I’m pictured (top) at the booth of Boston dealer Stephen Score, sporting a Tom Ford “Buckingham” jacket in black and ink wool wide twill damier, pale blue mini herringbone cotton shirt with French cuffs and a black silk pocket square, Gucci black flannel pant, black and gray micro stripe tie and black leather tasseled loafers, black alligator belt with sterling buckle by Ralph Lauren, pearl and pale blue sapphire cuff links, vintage Rolex oyster perpetual watch , amethyst sun glasses Tom Ford era Gucci, Hildestahl Medium III bag in purple leather and my fragrance is Lorenzo Villoresi’s Garofano.

James Andrew — photo by Gabriel Everett

The 1970′s, along with all of its glamor and decadence, are a huge wellspring of creative inspiration for me. In fact, I’ve spent most of my life developing an appreciation for slightly over-the-top living, and so it shouldn’t surprise you that I dashed right out to see the limited engagement of Whitney Smith’s “Ultrasuede: In Search of Halston.” The film is as much about the time as it is about the rather inscrutable Halston (a characteristic that so many iconic figures seem to share), and I’m quite certain that if you, like me, love a dose of disco-era fabulousness, elegance, and excess, then this flick is for you. Oh, and if perhaps you’d like to revisit our 2009 thoughts on Halston to get you in the mood, you can find them here!

Ultrasuede: In Search of Halston

Scott McBee and James Andrew at the Four Seasons

This week has seen both the monumental and marvelous as our very own beloved Scott McBee has just turned the half century mark, and, in addition, our six year anniversary is coming up!

So yes, a week of celebrations are afoot, and we’ve already made some good headway, having enjoyed a spectacular birthday dinner with close friends at the most glorious Four Seasons—and if you are wondering, for his special day I gave McBee a Tom Ford tuxedo and evening ensemble—and oh he does wear it so so well! I love a man in a tuxedo.

Anniversaries do give one pause to reflect. With such an incredibly high attrition rate these days, one can be truly grateful for a lasting relationship. Of course there is some effort involved—so much of it is about being on the same page. Looking back over my six years with McBee, I can say we’ve never had any agenda. We’ve resisted the somewhat unnatural pressure to “get somewhere”—rather we take each day as it comes, making time to listen to each other, and giving space where needed (we are both pretty busy with careers). We enjoy hitting the town as well as spending quality time together. Above all, we continually cultivate an attitude of admiration and mutual respect for one another. That’s a big one. In short, we’re still very much in love!

I look forward to sharing ever more beautiful experiences with my very best friend and gorgeous companion. Cheers to you, Mr. McBee!

For birthday celebrations, I’m dressed in the most sensational Tom Ford three piece suit in charcoal wool cashmere Prince of Wales plaid, checked cotton shirt with French cuffs, hounds tooth black velvet bow tie, black and white silk pocket square and black and saddle leather loafers, black pearl cuff links, vintage Rolex Oyster Perpetual watch and my fragrance is Creed Royal Oud

James Andrew and Hildestahl Medium III Bag - photo Gabriel Everett

When I saw the Hildestahl Medium III bag I, of course, simply had to have it. It’s the most perfectly useful and stylish every-day bag that one could ever want—and, AND, yes, in this fantastic shade of purple!

Now, you might think a man’s handbag in purple would be a bit over the top, but I can tell you, (and I know a bit about his sort of thing), purple is a hugely versatile color that works well with practically any combination. Gentlemen, do be bold! Wear the colors that you want, whatever they may be!

As far as securing YOUR purple Hildestahl, it is in quite a limited edition of 5, and now that I have one of them, well, you can do the math. So be quick about it.

I’m photographed here by the very talented photographer Gabriel Everett, sporting my marvelous Medium III Hildestahl bag in purple, dusty gray blue suede motorcycle jacket and grey cashmere turtleneck sweater both Tom Ford era Gucci, Etro wool challis scarf, Uniglo slim dark denim jeans, vintage Rolex oyster perpetual in stainless steel, Gucci black suede loafers (not shown), Dior sunglasses and my fragrance is Creed Himalaya.

James Andrew at Strawser and Smith - photo by Gabriel Everett

In an era where very little is actually made here in the USA, it is truly refreshing to come across a place that celebrates the craftsmanship that this country was once famous for. Enter Strawser & Smith Inc. whose motto, “older is better,” manifests in the repurposing of antique and vintage American industrial relics to create objects with an elegant contemporary twist.

A low console at Strawser and Smith Inc.

We ventured out to the exciting and vibrant neighborhood of Williamsburg in Brooklyn to meet with David Smith, founder and creator of Strawser & Smith, and to tour his gorgeous gallery. Over lunch at a local haunt we had a chance to chat with Smith about his brand. He had been working for some years as an interior designer until the financial crash of 2008. With clients evaporating, it seemed like a good time to shift gears. Smith had already been creating pieces using reclaimed industrial materials and decided to put all of his energies into developing a gallery to showcase these unique pieces along with a selection of vintage artifacts, all celebrating a made-in-American ethic. Needless to say, the concept has been a huge success, and Strawser & Smith is now a go-to resource for people across the globe who are looking for distinctive, functional, American pieces.

At the Strawser and Smith Inc. gallery.

Stylish AND “green,” Smith’s work is the product of a most perfect marriage—and a quite literal example of opportunity found in the overlooked!

Seated on a 1931 Harley Davidson Model D motorcycle, one of the most exquisite examples of made-in-America beauty and craftsmanship, I am sporting a Tom Ford suit in a olive wool silk tweed over check, pale blue cotton woven herringbone shirt with french cuffs, cream wool knit tie, brown crocodile cap toe suede shoes, “Nicolo” sunglasses and a beige and brown silk pocket square, cuff links are vintage agate, vintage Rolex Oyster Perpetual and my fragrance is Creed Windsor.