A stylish conversation with Christopher Modoo, menswear stylist, London
- 11 minutes ago
- 6 min read
Dear readers, for most menswear connoisseurs, a new season means bringing a fresh breath of air into your wardrobe and re-energising your sensitivity and enjoyment of style, with new pieces and thoughtful combinations. In the world of classic menswear, especially tailoring, there is a clear framework that preserves formality and traditional silhouettes in order to respect the heritage of a tailoring house, but that does not mean that newness and creativity are absent. On the contrary, innovation in classic tailoring is often very subtle and difficult: it may lie in the choice of fabric, colour, and pattern, in the details of the craftsmanship, or in the way accessories are selected and combined. These elements might sound minor, yet they can profoundly alter an ensemble, and the perception of your personal style, taste level, and even your way of being in the world.
In the past, I have invited some very talented menswear stylists to share their insights on style, particularly in the sphere of tailoring. This time, I am thrilled to welcome another seasoned stylist, who is based in London, for a conversation on classic menswear for the coming spring summer season, his career journey in men’s fashion, and his enduring passion for refined clothing. Mr. Christopher Modoo is a London-based menswear stylist, but his talents extend far beyond styling alone. Having devoted more than three decades to men’s fashion, Chris began his career as a menswear salesman at the esteemed British department store, Selfridges, before progressing to roles at some of the most respected British tailoring houses. From heading the made-to-measure department at Ede & Ravenscroft, one of London’s oldest tailoring houses, to serving as Senior Creative at Savile Row tailor, Chester Barrie. Chris has built deep, multi-faceted experience in men’s tailoring, spanning styling, fitting, design, and merchandising. In addition, he is an accomplished menswear writer and has been described as a “sartorial guru” in respected publications such as The Rake.
Photo by Hannah Miles
If you are intrigued by classic menswear and style, and curious about how to dress with ease and distinction this spring summer, then this blog is for you! Without further ado, let’s dive in.
My Modern Darcy: Hi Chris, it’s such a pleasure to have you with us today. To begin, could you share what fascinates you about menswear, particularly tailoring, at the first place? And what makes you realize that menswear is something that you wanted to build your career?
Christopher Modoo: Thank you. I have always been interested in clothes and fashion. I see clothing as a form of unspoken communication. Tailoring fascinates me because it can convey so much — from the cut of a jacket to the number of sleeve buttons — yet to someone else it can appear completely anonymous. That tension between detail and discretion is what drew me in.
MMD: You started on the shop floor at Selfridges and went on to senior creative in Chester Barrie on Savile Row; looking back, how has this journey shaped the way you work and think about menswear today?
CM: Starting as a salesman on the shop floor gave me invaluable insight into what customers actually want. It grounded me. Today, as a private stylist, I enjoy speaking with sales staff just as much as designers. The shop floor teaches you realities that the studio sometimes doesn’t.
Photo by James Campbell
MMD: You now work independently across styling, design, and consultancy. What aspects do you find the most rewarding? And in what ways has this independence challenged you, and how did you overcome them?
CM: Being independent affords freedom. I enjoy being able to say yes to interesting projects and shape my own direction. The challenge, of course, is that you don’t have a team behind you — you are the team. I’ve learned to be disciplined with my time, selective with my commitments, and clear about my value.
MMD: With your decades of expertise in tailoring, how would you define a piece of well‑made men's tailoring? In your opinion, what details should a gentleman pay close attention to before considering a purchase?
CM: The cloth — always the cloth. No matter how well made or how beautifully styled a garment is, the cloth is the key. It determines how it drapes, how it wears, and how it ages. I’ve noticed that some entry-level luxury brands now use excellent textiles — sometimes the same mills as top-end houses — and that makes a significant difference. A gentleman should pay close attention to cloth quality, handle, weight, and how it complements his lifestyle.
Photo by James Campbell
MMD: In this increasingly casual and “dressed down” era that we are living in, from your point of view, what role does tailored clothing still play in this modern time? And why do you believe it continues to be relevant or has its value of existence?
CM: Tailoring — and particularly the suit — has become formal wear in many settings. But the right clothing still conveys professionalism and understanding. Good tailoring is flattering. It creates structure, presence, and proportion. In a more casual era, that clarity of intent is even more powerful.
MMD: In a digital age where many of us can buy almost everything online, and against a backdrop of economic uncertainty, why do you feel that menswear styling, and even in‑person shopping, still matter? And how can a good stylist genuinely add value for a modern gentleman shopper?
CM: As clothing becomes more expensive, customers are rightly focused on value and longevity. A stylist’s role is to help them make informed decisions. I take pride in guiding clients toward pieces they will wear for years. I am under no pressure for them to buy unnecessarily. Trust is more valuable than a quick sale.
MMD: Turning to the new season, could you share your styling thoughts for spring summer? In terms of silhouette, fabric, colour, and pattern, what directions are you most excited by, and what do you consider essential pieces for a gentleman’s wardrobe this season?
CM: I am enjoying the renewed interest in structured clothing and a refined English country influence. A wool blazer in a rich navy, cut with shape, in a high-twist resilient cloth, always looks smart. Texture, depth of colour, and proper structure feel right for the season.
Photo by James Campbell
MMD: Let’s talk about your own wardrobe. For spring and summer, what would you describe as your favourite ensemble or your “signature” look? The outfit that feels most “you” and that you can return to timelessly?
CM: I return to my navy wool seersucker blazer, a double-breasted contrast waistcoat, and grey trousers. It feels balanced and considered. In the warmer months, I enjoy wearing two-tone shoes — they add character without being loud.
MMD: What are three items in your wardrobe that mean the most to you, whether for sentimental, aesthetic or practical reasons, and why are they so special?
CM: My covert coat, which was the original sample for Chester Barrie made in the Edward Sexton studio; an old Thomas Pink shirt from 1990 that has been re-collared; and my Gaziano & Girling Oxfords. I’ve long admired the brand and was delighted to finally own a pair. Each piece carries history as well as craft.
Photo by James Campbell
MMD: Beyond your client work, you also write about refined menswear and host styling sessions with brands such as Rampley & Co. How do you balance your day‑to‑day projects with these collaborations, and what have you learned about managing your time and energy along the way?
CM: I write a to-do list and I am realistic about my time. Discipline is essential. Creative work requires structure if it is to remain sustainable.
MMD: When you hear the word “style”, what does it mean to you? How would you describe someone who genuinely has “style”?
CM: The ability to express yourself well in everything you do — not just how you dress, but how you speak, write, and behave.
Photo by James Campbell
MMD: Aside from being well‑dressed and well‑groomed, what other qualities do you believe a modern gentleman should possess? And why is that essential?
CM: A sense of humour and a sense of proportion. Both prevent vanity and keep things grounded.
MMD: If someone came to you and asked about the “secrets” to becoming a great menswear stylist today, what is your advice?
CM: Get a job on the shop floor. There is no substitute for learning how real people buy, wear, and respond to clothing. It teaches you more than any theory ever could.
Photo by Hannah Miles
Special thanks to Mr. Christopher Modoo.
Image courtesy of Chris Modoo, London.
Cover photo by Hannah Miles.