Ryan Seacrest Won’t Give Wedding Advice…Unless It Comes to Suiting
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Ryan Seacrest is a force to be reckoned with. Aside from being the brilliant producer of Keeping Up With The Kardashians and all of the subsidiary spinoffs, he is also a successful television host, radio personality, and now…designer! Last year he launched Distinction—a line of men’s suits and accessories with Macy’s. Before he kicks off his latest endeavor (a Fox game show called Knock Knock Live in which he literally shows up on your doorstep), we caught up with the media mogul to talk style inspirations, which famous designer has offered his expertise, and what wedding advice he is and is not comfortable relaying.
Yahoo Style: What was the impetus for starting a line of men’s suits with Macy’s?
Ryan Seacrest: About two years ago we were approached by some reputable partners, including Macy’s, who were very convincing that menswear, especially tailored clothing and accessories, was ready for a new, accessible brand. I’ve always appreciated fashion and I was encouraged that with the right partners, we could successfully develop a collection that would be accessible to guys that was both comfortable and looked great. I’m really proud of what we’ve brought to market over the last year. We’ve already learned a lot and are making adjustments, and have plans to expand the product offering this fall. We’ve received encouraging feedback and the business is growing—so we’re off to a good start I think.
YS: Do you have any people past or present that you look up to for style inspiration?
RS: Sure, I really like the old school looks of Frank Sinatra, Cary Grant… they had an effortless style that has proven timeless.
YS: Do any of your Kardashian-Jenner friends give you style advice or vice versa?
RS: The family has so much style, I more or less just stand back in awe and appreciation.
YS: Since summer wedding season is upon us, what advice can you offer dudes for how to look stylish in the summer heat?
RS: I don’t know if I’m quite qualified to give wedding advice…But as far as summer formalwear goes, my advice is to lean towards lighter fabrics that can help combat the heat. I also like unstructured jackets, which you can mix and match with different pants. Europeans do summer evening dressing in an elegant yet easy and comfortable way, and we tried to replicate that a bit with some of our sport coats.
YS: Next month is Father’s Day, how has your dad influenced your style? What stylish pieces should every dad own?
RS: My dad is a lawyer, and lives in the South, so he always looked sharp in a suit and tie. He instilled in me the notion that if you want people to take you seriously, you should be well-dressed, and a tailored suit is always a great way to make a positive impression. Every guy should have a signature tie—striped, patterned or a bold color perhaps—and a crisp white shirt, preferably with some texture. We offer both in the Distinction collection.
YS: Having done a suit line, would you ever venture into a full ready-to-wear collection?
RS: The Ryan Seacrest Distinction collection already includes men’s tailored clothing, shirts, and accessories—ties, belts and jewelry, such as cufflinks and tie bars. For Fall 2015, we’re expanding the collection to include sweaters and outerwear, and winter wear including hats and gloves. We’re also exploring sportswear, and a bespoke collection at some point is not out of the question.
YS: Are suits the appropriate thing to wear when you barge into people’s homes like you will for your new show, Knock Knock Live?
RS: Well, we’re going to knock first, so we’ll definitely be getting permission before entry. And, yes, I expect I’ll be wearing a suit when I host the Knock Knock Live show this summer. But I may mix it up, pairing a jacket and vest with jeans, or jacket and tie with jeans.
YS: You were a big fan of Burberry at one point; what have you done with all of those great suits and tuxes? Do they still occupy your closet?
RS: Burberry will always be part of my wardrobe, their tailored pieces and coats are amazing. Christopher Bailey is a creative genius and has been so supportive of me pursuing this fashion venture, and generously given me some great advice.
YS: How would you describe your wardrobe/style?
RS: Understated and comfortable.
YS: Your skin is flawless. What is your skincare regimen?
RS: My secret is Dr. Harold Lancer. He has great products that I’ve used for many years.
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