British croquet champion, classic car collector and connoisseur Simon Carter’s inimitable blend of British elegance and practicality, tradition and panache have won him a dedicated following, which counts Gary Oldman, Will Smith, Jonathan Ross and Robert Downey Jnr  plus a rather thriving label, thank you very nicely.

From humble beginnings, the brand was founded when Carter was still a student and gradually moved from brooches, to cufflinks to watches and today includes a suiting line as well as luggage, jewellery, ohh lets not forget the new Gervaise Doggy Door stops, in homage to Simon’s canine counterpart and a diffusion range in, West End by Simon Carter, which offers a more 1960s inspired sharp clothing collection, aimed at a younger more fashion conscious customer. So he’s not just the “King of Cufflinks”, anymore.

Only recently Simon agreed to dress the “Giant killers” Bradford City FC as they prepare for their historic Cup Final bid at Wembley.

Anyway enough of me, you want to read what the man himself has to say, not me. So please enjoy the pearls of wisdom from Mr Simon Carter ;

 

 

If you could have invented anything what would it be?

The wheel – think of the licensing deals.

 

If you had one day to live what would be your biggest regret?

That I only had one day left to live and that I didn’t eat enough potted shrimps because I wouldn’t have to worry about the butter.

 

What’s your favourite piece of clothing?

A pair of vintage Chelsea Boots by Alan McAfee of Dover Street

 

If you could only wear one brand/Designer (Other then yourself) for the rest of your life who would it be? Why?

Seek out and only wear utility clothing from the 1940’s because it is so well designed and hard wearing.

 

Who is your style icon? Why?

Prince Charles because he always looks stylish. He rarely looks fashionable.

 

Can you tie a bow tie ? If yes, who taught you ?

Yes – I taught myself.

 

What piece of style advise do you live by ?

Style is what you make it. Fashion is dictated by others.

 

What piece of clothing would you relegate to Room 101?

Baseball caps

 

Who would do you ideal diner guests and why?

Quentin Crisp for gently bitchy conversation, Jo Brand because she is so funny and Christopher Lee because he is stylish and interesting. He also has an amazing voice – I want him to say ‘pass the salt please’.

 

How did you get into the industry, what was your big break?

 

It was a hobby and began with 100 brooches for men. I tried the whole of the Kings Road and hadn’t sold a single one. At the last minute a fabulous jewellers called Cobbler & Bellamy brought 50. That was the lucky break.

 

 

If you could collaborate with one brand (Who you currently aren’t) who would it be and why?

 

The V&A Museum – beauty and history what more do you want.