‘I like a bit of glamour’: The outfit Tim Ross would never wear to fly
Each week, we quiz a prominent person about their style and the inspiration behind it. Ahead, comedian Tim Ross.
Tim Ross loves his suits that were designed by his wife, Michelle Glew-Ross. Credit: Caroline McCredie
How would you describe your style? There’s a consistency and timelessness to how I dress. I wear a uniform: a chore jacket and matching pants in navy or camel with a T-shirt or shirt. About four years ago, after I’d been wearing the same jacket for 10 years, my wife [fashion designer Michelle Glew-Ross of My General Store] made the “Modernister” suit for me, and I’ve worn it since. It’s unfussy and relaxed.
What’s the oldest thing in your wardrobe? A pink 1970s three-piece suit that I bought in the mid-’90s; it still fits, which is a miracle.
And the most recent addition? A darker navy version of my “Modernister” suit to wear on my tour.
Tim Ross wears Adidas “SL 72 ” sneakers to feel a bit glamorous when travelling.
What would you wear … on a first date? Jeans, a shirt and runners. … on a plane? I love the excitement of travelling, so not a tracksuit! I wear a relaxed navy suit with my blue Adidas “SL 72” sneakers: a bit of glamour without going over the top. … on the red carpet? A black suit, white shirt and black Church’s shoes. I avoid ties.
What’s your favourite fashion era? For someone who’s quite fond of things from the 1950s, ’60s and ’70s, I’ve never really dressed in the styles of those decades. If I could wear a pair of tennis shorts and look like Björn Borg, I’d be the happiest guy in the world, but sadly, I don’t. I can, however, dress like a middle-aged advertising exec from the ’80s and feel happy about it.
Who’s your favourite fashion designer? My wife, Michelle, because I want to stay married but also because she’s got impeccable taste.
What’s your fragrance of choice? “Eau d’Italie” from the Le Sirenuse hotel on the Amalfi Coast in Italy, where Michelle and I stayed on our honeymoon. Smell is the most nostalgic of the senses and when I wear it, it reminds me of that time. Whereas if I wore “Kouros” [by YSL Beauty], it would remind me of lining up to go to a nightclub when I was 18.
What are the three essential items in your wardrobe? My “Modernister” suit, white Uniqlo T-shirts and Blundstone boots.
Any go-to jewellery? A couple of silver cuffs; I like the ritual of putting them on.
Can you remember a favourite outfit you wore as a child? There was a vinyl and red faux shearling jacket – a classic ’70s disco jacket – when I was about seven. I vividly remember the sadness of growing out of it.
What was your first fashion moment? I was 19, living in Melbourne with a bunch of mates, going to university, seeing bands. My aunt had passed away, and she had these amazing women’s stretch body shirts from the ’70s. I wore one out and everyone said how cool it looked. The Country Road chambray shirt was banished forever. It was a great awakening.
And your worst fashion mistake? It was at the other end of the decade when I embraced late ’90s streetwear and wore a pair of burnt-orange cargo pants with little zips and drawstrings. I should’ve stayed with my body shirts.
What’s on your wish list? I have a friend who gets suits made in London. I’d love that experience, going to a tailor and having a suit made to see me out.
Is there something you would never wear? A singlet.
Is there a current trend you like? I’m enjoying the return of 1990s fashion. It gives you value, seeing the kids discover and embrace the music, fashion and culture that you lived.
Who’s your favourite fashion icon? The late architect Richard Rogers. I remember seeing him in white pants, a bright yellow shirt, aqua jumper and aqua Crocs. It’s not for me, but I like his style a lot.
What’s your favourite off-duty, casual Sunday look? A pair of shorts and the oldest T-shirt I can find.
Tim Ross is touring Sydney, Melbourne and Canberra from March 21.
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