Winter Walk...David Nolan

DAKS Introduces A Winter Walk With Friends of DAKS

Catching up over a winter walk with friends of the brand, industry leaders, creatives and all-round exciting individuals that have worked with and alongside DAKS over the years. To kick off this initiative, DAKS have caught up with long-time friend of the brand and renowned menswear stylist, David Nolan to talk about his love of timeless pieces, Hampstead and his girlfriend’s meatballs!

David Nolan is a stylist based in London specialising in classical menswear - which is truly where his heart is as far as clothes go. David has worked closely with various brands throughout his career, some highlights including Anderson & Sheppard, Daks, John Smedley, Gieves & Hawkes, Turnbull & Asser, Omega. Along side this David also styles artists within music and film. Some of his highlights on this side of his work have been working with The Arctic Monkeys, Andrew Garfield, Clive Owen, George Ezra, John Cale, Ricky Gervais, Stanley Tucci, Woody Harrelson to name a few.

Go to spot for a winter walk...

I moved to Chalk Farm this summer, so I now have Hampstead close to me. It’s brought me a lot of pleasure exploring this part of London, and in particular, more than the actual Heath is to stroll through the streets of Hampstead.. the houses and roads are so singular and unique. It feels like the area must have grown and developed in a very slow and natural way, unfolding over time. It’s got an incredible charm and beauty of it’s own, really love going for walks in this area.

My favourite winter warmers...

I have an old vintage Chesterfield coat in a very heavy mousey coloured wool I love to wear. It’s been a companion for many years now, and although it is admittedly quite battered and worn, I still take great comfort and pleasure in wearing it. I had a pair of Chukka boots made several years ago which are a real Stalwart, they have a storm welt and a bellows tongue, so can pretty much take whatever the weather can throw at them, and their leather gets more beautiful with age…if I’m wearing these two things I’m good to go.

Perfect dish...

Meat balls!.. my girlfriend has been making these in quite a variety of ways, from Italian style to Asian, all of which are the ideal comfort food.

Best way to wake up...

Breakfast!.. just the thought of it gets me out of bed, It’s one of my greatest pleasures. Once I’ve finished making it I’ll get back into bed to eat and drink my coffee, absolute bliss if only for a short while, sets me up perfectly for the day ahead.

Everyday life looks like...

Being self employed, the days can vary to some degree depending on the projects I’m working on, but they all tend to follow the same process. Starting with planning the shoots firstly, then preparing them to ensure I’ve sourced all the pieces I need, ideally in person because I like to view the garments and accessories first hand to make sure they feel right and that I want to shoot them. Then the actual shoot days where I make the imagery, and then It’s post production. When I have down time it’s usually spent researching and planning new ideas for shoots.

Style in three words...

Well loved classics.

Incorporating style into everyday life/work...

I’m in the lucky position to be able to wear the things I love and that also feel right for the work I do. The way I dress personally reflects in the images I make and the brands I shoot for. I’ve had to wear various uniforms in a previous career, so I know It’s fortunate when you can express yourself with your personal style in a way that also goes hand in hand with your work.

Most treasured item in my wardrobe...

I have a single-breasted patch pocket blazer that was tailor made for me in 2013 which I really love. It’s in a brown Holland & Sherry moleskin which has taken on some wear and tear, some deep creases and a beautiful patina and so much character over the years. There are few garments I own that I enjoy wearing as much as this one. I feel attached to it as it was made by hand by someone, I’m very fond of and has given me much comfort. A really beautiful thing.

What inspires me...

Whenever things are done in a unique and original way, be it in film, writing, art or music. Those creative mediums never cease to astonish me and serve as a source of inspiration.

Wind down outside of work...

I love to do a little exercise.. the greatest way to clear your head. I read, listen to music, BFI player for more creative and artistic film, and Netflix for something more light-hearted and fun, and very much eating out when ever that time comes again!

First place I visit when lockdown ends...

I’ll be hanging out with my mum and brother again.