JASON BRODERICK
The Fashion Director of Menswear, Sports and Fine Watches for Harrods gives the inside track on his favourite London hangouts and what he is most looking forward to at LC:M.
What is your number one recommendation for a new-comer to London?
The Thames Path has a little bit of everything; from the Design Museum to the Southbank Centre and Westminster, there is so much superb architecture and some great places to stop off for a snack along the way.
Which designers are you most looking forward to at London Collections: Men?
We are very excited to be bringing both Hardy Amies and Gieves & Hawkes back into our tailoring offer for the AW14 season and we can't wait to see what they have created for their SS15 collections.
Which emerging menswear designers would you consider investing in now as the stars of tomorrow?
I have really enjoyed seeing the growth of Christopher Raeburn who we now have in-store and Astrid Andersen. They have both been able to take a sporty aesthetic and put their own individual stamp on it, plus their use of texture and materials is particularly interesting.
What advice would you give young menswear designers trying to establish themselves in London?
Menswear in London has such a buzz around it at the moment. Get out there and see what men are wearing at LC:M and what collections are popular with buyers, but ultimately try to define a unique aesthetic for your brand.
Do you have a favourite movement or subculture within London style, and why?
The Mod movement has always been close to my heart, the juxtaposition of very classic tailoring with military fishtail parkas is very interesting and is still inspiring designers today.
Where is your favourite venue for live music?
Ronnie Scott’s is an excellent jazz club and it has that prohibition 1920's feel with small, candlelit tables; both the atmosphere and the music are first class.
The best thing about London is…
Harrods of course! It's both an incredible building and a fantastic destination for menswear.
ROBERT KONJIC
Swedish-born, Croatian model and Menswear Committee member Robert Konjic gives us the lowdown on his favourite aspects of London
Which emerging menswear designers would you consider investing in now as the stars of tomorrow?
Agi & Sam and Craig Green.
What advice would you give young menswear designers trying to establish themselves in London?
I don't feel that you have to be too commercial in your first few seasons. Go with your gut instead.
Describe your favourite London neighbourhood and some of its highlights.
I've always been a West London Boy, but lately I have become drawn towards the North. I think it is because I've spent too much time in New York with my daughter lately. All that concrete is causing me to crave nature. I need parks and fields.
Can you recommend a hidden gem to a seasoned Londoner?
Whenever I've told people about hidden gems in the city, it gets too busy! So I'm keeping them to myself, you’ll have to find your own.
Where is your favourite venue for live music?
The Royal Albert Hall or Koko in Camden.
What is your favourite London landmark or building?
I love flying into London on a clear sunny day and seeing the city from above. The plane always flies along the Thames and you can see all the big landmarks and buildings.
Do you have a favourite movement or subculture for London style, and why?
I do love the Punk era but I also like the 90's Metalheadz and Drum & Bass. I love the trainers, heavy jewellery and the sportswear.
And finally, your top style tip or piece of advice.
Always spend money on good shoes.