The nation first met Oliver Proudlock in 2011 when he appeared on our screens as part of the Made in Chelsea cast.
Arguably the most stylishly dressed of the Chelsea cohort, it was little surprise when Proudlock – as he is known to his friends and fans – announced that he was launching his own clothing line, Serge DeNimes.
The urban brand centres around streetwear, with a collection of tees, hoodies, sweatpants and jewellery featuring the Serge DeNimes logo and his trademark smart-but-distressed designs.
The trendy brand is loved by celebrities including David Beckham and his fashion-forward eldest son Brooklyn, as well as One Direction’s Liam Payne, who has even been spotted wearing Serge DeNimes on stage.
Few know better than the bespectacled designer and reality star how to rock a great glasses look, so we asked him to take some time out of his busy schedule to talk to us about his personal style and love of eye-catching eyewear.
"Your glasses are such a reflection of your personality and can really finish off a look. Be bold and also own a few different styles - the more the merrier!"
Percival
How would you describe your look?
It’s quite eclectic, so it’s a mix of different styles. I always like to put my own twist on things, but generally my look is pretty laid back. For me, comfort leads to confidence and I think that’s super important when it comes to one’s style. My outfit is always finished with accessories, whether it’s jewellery or glasses.
My style icons are Pharrell Williams, Tom Ford and Ralph Lauren – they all come from very different genres and inspire me in different ways. I always say you should you pick up certain things from your style icons and then give it your own unique twist.
Were you always a proud glasses wearer?
Definitely not! I first found out I had to wear glasses when I was about 12. I was too scared and embarrassed to wear them to school, so I would just sit at the back of the class and squint my eyes. But over time you adapt, become less self-conscious and find your individual style.
What do you think are the biggest specs trends at the moment?
The most exciting thing about glasses at the moment is that there’s such a wide mix of styles. I see a lot of variations of tortoiseshell glasses and I love mixed-material frames.
"The most exciting thing about glasses at the moment is that there’s such a wide mix of styles... I love mixed-material frames."
Dresden
What advice do you have when it comes to finding the right glasses?
When it comes to the right fit, make sure that the top of the frames doesn’t go above your eyebrows and that the bottom of the frame sits on the top of your cheekbone. Also, they shouldn’t be too narrow or wide as it will distort the shape of your face. The fit is super important as it needs to reflect the shape of your face, and that leads to comfort.
I’d also say don’t be afraid to look outside the box. Go for a bright colour or quirky design. Your glasses are a reflection of your personality and can really finish off a look. Be bold and also own a few different styles – the more the merrier!
What’s the best thing about working in fashion?
Being able to freely express yourself creatively. I also love collaborating – with everyone bringing individual skills to the table, you have the potential to create something so much better. I love working with young designers as well as established ones. My first collaboration, which was definitely one of my career highlights, was my shoe collection with Oliver Sweeney in 2013.
