Manish Mishra talks about fashion, shopping & more

The ‘Wonder Woople’ series features users who are passionate about fashion or food or both. They are the people who spot new, interesting things and love self-expression. They are our tastemakers, influencers and curators.

Manish Mishra is this week’s Wonder Woople. He is a fashion and a lifestyle writer. He also happens to be the first man to be featured in this series!

I am a style addict, a pen-pusher who can’t stop writing about fashion. I suffer from OCD: Obsessive Couture Disorder and love anything Limited Edition.

Tell us one activity that you are really passionate about.

Shopping for sure! As clichéd as it sounds, I see it as a form of art. The sheer thrill of collecting exquisite fashion finds from a plethora of places is unparalleled. From a designer boutique to a hole-in-the-wall thrift store, I like to explore the ultimate and unique in men’s fashion. I have a collection of neckpieces that I have collected over the years from myriad places. I feel fashion is even bigger than art. While art embellishes a corner of your living room, fashion is something that flatters your body and speaks volumes about who you really are!

Is it true that clothes maketh a man?

Definitely! I think Italian men are the epitome of fashion. What you put on your back is exactly what you are in life. Dressing up should be a way of life and not an occasional practice.

Which is your favorite menswear label?

I don’t really have favourites. They change with the seasons. Currently I am in love with Troy Costa’s jodhpur breeches, Arjun Khanna’s structured jackets and Zara’s summer blazers.

Do you shop for clothes online?

Not really. I am very old school that way. I like to go to a boutique, browse through the racks, feel the fabric, give my measurements and come back for trials till I get it the way I like it. Also, I am super fussy about the fits so I would never buy a T-shirt online. Maybe a wallet, a pair of sunglasses and other accessories, if I am too lazy to step out and need something real soon.

What do you find to be the biggest challenge for guys who want to look good, but don’t know where to start?

I think there are just a handful of designers for men. Also, most guys end up buying from the same stores and all end up looking the same. I think young fashion enthusiasts should learn to have fun with clothes instead of following a style rule book or a magazine. Is your look classic preppy or is it preppy with an edge? Are you a biker or a British dandy? Once you have identified your personal style, it’s smooth sailing.

Apart from clothes, what defines a man’s taste - watches or shoes?

Both actually. If you are opting for pointy brogues for an evening with a slim dial watch, you are definitely an elegant man. However, if it is a chunky chronograph and you opt for tasseled suede loafers, it projects a more daring and playful personality. There can be so many like these.

If you could splurge on one thing, what would it be?

I am obsessed with trench coats. So it’d be a Burberry trench with leather accents.

Which song is on loop on your iPod/iPhone right now?

Blue Jeans White Shirt – Lana Del.

What are your guilty pleasures?

Sushi and chocolate.

Your favourite getaway destination?

I love Dubai. Great for shopping.

Who would you love to see most on Wooplr? (Celebrity/Friend)

Rahul Khanna, always stylish!

What is your take on wooplr.com, what do you love about it?

It’s a fun site and it’s good to read about my fashion contemporaries.

My recommendations:

For structured menswear and evening wear: Troy Costa’s store in Khar and Arjun Khanna’s store in Colaba.
For summer jackets: Zara at Palladium
For luxe accessories: The Collective, Palladium
Stylish TV shows you must watch: Downton Abbey and Mr Selfridge (both set in 20s London)

Here are Manish’s recommendations posted on Wooplr:

Waffles from Indigo Deli, Bandra West, Mumbai