You’re an icon in the fashion industry; from red carpets to TV screens, you’ve made your mark as a household name. At what point did you realize you could turn something you love into something you could live off?

I wasn’t ever 100% that would happen, but I remembered my mom telling me when I was a teenager to find a career that I loved and everything else would follow.  She was right!

When did you know that fashion was what you wanted to do, and how did that push you to where you are now?

I have always been fascinated by Hollywood and the Fashion industry.  I used to watch “Fashion Television” religiously every single week because I just craved the information and soaked it up like a sponge.  When I interned at Vogue in New York I knew that I wanted to work in fashion.  I could barely sleep I was so excited to go in every day.  That experience really laid the foundation for me building my way up to having my own business.  

You recently got to be part of the Platinum Collective, a private group of influencers and curators. How has social media changed the way entrepreneurs and businesses work in your field?

I think now there really is no behind the scenes because everything is documented.  I am able to show my fittings, working with clients, getting my clients ready, the final look! You name it! You can really define your brand through your social media channels. 

Being such a big name in the industry, and so heavily invested in fashion critiques, how do you stay so on top of current trend and remain so timeless?

I have definitely fallen victim to some trends! That’s for sure.  For the most part though, I wear what I want.  Whatever excites me in the moment and I encourage my clients to do the same when I am working with them.

For our readers who are looking to branch off into the industry, do you have any advice on building yourself?

Start from the bottom. There is a lot to learn so allow yourself to be teachable.  I got coffee for people, emptied out the garbage, etc. before I was ever invited to be on a photoshoot.  You have to work your way up and it doesn’t happen overnight.  It’s been almost 10 years for me.

You’re a style icon. But who are some of the people you personally consider style icons?

Well, thank you! Ryan Gosling and Jared Leto are two of my faves.  They always get it right.

You’ve worked with companies such as Kate Spade but is there any designer on your radar you’d love to start working with?

I’d love to work another great American Heritage brand like Ralph Lauren or Tommy Hilfiger.

Vintage can be a huge hit or miss, are there any designers whose vintage pieces are always a hit?

You can never go wrong with vintage Alaia or Dior.  The construction and materials are so beautiful.  

“Anti-Fashion” has become really topical recently, with the rise of brands like Vetements. What’s your view on the current counter culture in fashion?

I think it is really cool! I love that designers such as Demna Gvasalia are taking clothes and making us see and wear them in a new way!

Brands like Kappa, Fila, and Juicy Couture have been seen making their way across catwalks and runways over the last few seasons thanks to collaborations with other brands. Do you think this new wave of collaboration fashion is a hit or a miss?

It’s a hit! I am lusting after the Champion collaborations.  It’s important to keep reinventing in fashion, giving brands new life and introducing them to a new customer.  I like seeing the way people interpret these brands now and how they become cool street style. 

Is or are there any fashion faux pas that you support?

I support them all.  There shouldn’t be too many rules.  Fashion is meant to be a way for us to express ourselves and who we are.  That’s not to say that everything is to my taste, but it definitely makes the world more colorful.

What’s your ideal day-to-day outfit?

I like one statement piece whether it’s a great embroidered bomber jacket or a fun pair of shoes.  I wear them with jeans and a tee and it looks polished and elevated.  You need one conversation piece always!

And lastly, for those who don’t know you yet, any last words to describe yourself?

I am a good Canadian boy! HA!