Model Profile: Oliver Cheshire

Introduction

Today, for only the second time in the history of our style icon series, FashionBeans shines the spotlight on a young male whose sartorial presence both pays and paves his way in the world.
Our previous model profile focused on the world’s first male supermodel and all-round menswear maven, David Gandy. This time, we continue down the British route by analysing the style CV of Mr Oliver Cheshire – someone who is currently making fashionable waves both at home and abroad.

Mr Oliver Cheshire

For a time known simply as ‘Mr Pixie Lott’, Cheshire has managed to step out of his other half’s considerable shadow due to his on- and off-duty fashion exploits. A regular in ‘Best Dressed Of The Week’ segments and the face of global campaigns at every level from high street to high fashion, the stock of his chiselled cheekbones has certainly risen somewhat since he debuted alongside the singer.
He may only be twenty-five but Mr Cheshire is already boasting a rather impressive professional CV. Scouted at just sixteen, Cheshire was quickly cast as the new face and body of Calvin Klein Jeans and never looked back; shoots with Vivienne Westwood, Dolce & Gabbana, Missoni, Paul Smith Swim, Superdry and Marks & Spencer have since followed.
In fact, Cheshire’s relationship with Marks & Spencer was further solidified this year as he was selected to front their highly coveted and sought-after ‘Best of British’ collection – a campaign that is set to increase his profile dramatically and should ensure he becomes instantly recognisable by the masses.
Mr Cheshire’s growing presence within the industry only further signals a transition away from the skinny, androgynous look that was previously a defining characteristic of many male models. Much like David Gandy, Cheshire belies the stereotypical model archetype with his masculine, powerful physique and lean muscle mass – something that is clearly not inhibiting his progress within his chosen profession.
However, Mr Cheshire is much more than just a pretty face; his knowledge of fashion and style extends way beyond looking good in front of a camera and he is now a regular columnist for Telegraph Men.
He also runs his own blog, ‘I Wear The Trousers’, where he voices his thoughts on current trends, collections and brands, stating that he is “passionate about fashion full stop and I blog about anything that interests me in the industry.”

Recent Campaigns

M&S Best Of British Autumn/Winter 2013
Superdry Spring/Summer 2013
Henry Cotton Spring/Summer 2013

Personal Style Analysis

Like his portfolio, Cheshire’s personal lookbook makes for impressive viewing. In no way afraid to mix it up – whether incorporating statement elements and on trend prints or keeping it simple in sharp tailoring/off-duty staples – Mr Cheshire is well on his way to becoming a true icon of style.
Certain pieces stand out as clear wardrobe favourites: the roll neck makes appearances throughout in a variety of looks, from sophisticated smart-casual to on-point creative layering.
The denim jacket is another piece that Cheshire really makes work for him – the Americana staple takes pride of place in many a man’s wardrobe and Cheshire shows why, using it to its full extent as both outerwear and a layering component.

Personal Lookbook

Inspired by Pieces

• Nudie Jeans Organic Long John In Black
• Asos Leather Biker Jacket In Slim Fit
• Farah Vintage Hudson Shirt In Blue
• River Island Fisher Suit
• Allsaints Tonic Crew T-shirt
• Reiss Steel Wool & Silk Dinner Suit Scarf Black
• He By Mango Medium Wash Denim Jacket
• Reiss 1971 Thomas Long Sleeve Polo Neck Top Grey
• Topman Stone Crombie Coat
• Pier One Trenchcoat – Beige
• Valentino Square Tortoiseshell Sunglasses 154444
• He By Mango Slim-fit Premium Cotton Chinos
• River Island Black Lace Up Formal Boots
• Grenson James Loafers
• Topman Tan Suede Brogue Shoes

Get The Look

Look One: The Statement Print Shirt

Cheshire doesn’t shy away from introducing a bold focal point to his outfits, and he does this exceptionally well when dressing down. Printed shirts are currently experiencing a moment and make an effortless statement in any casual ensemble.
Don’t try to work in too many stand-out pieces when styling this look; let the shirt do all the talking. Aid the shirt’s pursuit of this by pairing it with timeless, neutral wardrobe staples.
You can never go wrong with khaki chinos – they’re the lifeblood of any off-duty wardrobe and right up there with indigo jeans in terms of timelessness. Alongside them, layer up with a denim jacket – another piece that is infinitely versatile and helps to compartmentalise the shirt’s bold pattern.
Complete with some comfortable, on trend retro running trainers in a burgundy tone. Turn up the chinos once or twice for a weekend look that strikes the perfect balance between current trends and classic style:

• Asos Shirt In Short Sleeve With Ditsy Print
• Cheap Monday Heavy Staple Denim Jacket
• Reiss Bell Moleskin-style Trousers Fawn
• New Balance 574 Suede

Look Two: Roll Neck Reliability

As previously mentioned, a piece that Cheshire favours heavily is the roll neck. This versatile knit has been prevalent for a few years now and can help upgrade both your formal and smart-casual looks instantly.
A fine-gauge knit oozes sophistication and metropolitan style, especially in a dark, neutral colour such as charcoal grey or navy. Skip the jacket and head straight for a coat – a blockbuster, power-dressing piece of outerwear is ideal.
A single-breasted Chesterfield or overcoat perfectly complements the roll neck, especially in a timeless camel hue which injects an additional splash of suave.
A pair of tailored trousers and some double-monks completes an outfit that is ready to carry you through the day and into the night in unrivalled style:

• Reiss Moon Extra Fine Merino Roll Neck Navy
• Acne Garret Wool Overcoat
• Carven Mottled Wool Tailored Trousers 172706
• Topman Burgundy Leather Monk Shoes

Look Three: Simple, Sartorial Perfection

When it comes to tailoring and dressing up, Cheshire knows just what to do and exactly when to do it. He’s completely mastered the basics, and in suiting that is more than half the battle. Our icon doesn’t rely on bold patterns and statement pieces to grab the attention, he keeps it simple, slick and sharp – a combination guaranteed to make him the best dressed in any room.
Sticking to a classic neutral colour palette is a timeless, sure-fire choice, and Cheshire rarely deviates from the grey, navy and camel.
A grey suit with subtle check print is very much on trend and offers a good way to mix up your traditional formal wear without losing any wearability or versatility.
A pressed white shirt is a fail-safe option whilst a knitted tie breaks up the look and adds depth with a textured pop. Cheshire often favours a simple, white handkerchief over a more focal pocket square, but this comes down to personal preference.
A pair of brown leather Derbies polishes off this outfit in a refined manner. Keep the detailing minimal and your shoes shined to really nail this simple but sharp sartorial effort:

• Reiss Navigator Non Stretch Poplin White
• Reiss Napolean Three Piece Suit With Subtle Check Grey
• Drakes Knitted Silk Tie
• Ben Sherman Qewy Officers Shoes

Final Word

Cheshire’s rise in the world of fashion has been swift and unrelenting. His campaigns have resulted in big boosts to each brand’s revenue and sales, and he’s already shown how he can adapt to both high-end and high street shoots, all the while remaining accessible and likeable to men from all walks of life.
Quite simply, Oliver Cheshire is well on his way to becoming the UK’s next big export. Like David Gandy before him, Cheshire has shown a willingness to promote British style and fashion not just abroad but at home as well – and he is truly doing it justice.