With the Olympics kicking off in London on Friday, Gabriel John, Head Tailor at October House offers his thoughts on the Top 10 Best Dressed of London Olympics 2012.
Lord Coe has played the biggest role in bringing the Olympics to London. Not only that, he’s also a former professional athlete, winning four Olympic medals for Great Britain. A man of many talents, he also happens to be a real dapper chap, with the fashion know-how to put together some top shirt and tie combos.
David Beckham has actively supported London’s Olympic bid from day one and we can’t think of a better Ambassador for Team GB. We’re gutted he missed out on a place in the British football squad but have no doubt that he’ll be present at the Games. We’re hoping to see more of his exquisite suit style. He got it spot on when he lit the torch in an all-blue ensemble, complete with pocket square and tie clip.
Flag bearer and former gold medallist, Sir Chris Hoy will be leading the British Team into the Olympics opening ceremony this month. Team GB’s cycling sensation also leads the way in the fashion stakes and has been spotted in a selection of exceptionally suave suits which he typically likes to team with pale accessories.
Tennis favourite Andy Murray’s hopes were dashed last month when he narrowly missed out on the Wimbledon title to Roger Federer. However, us Brits are hoping he’ll bring home gold at the Olympics. Away from the courts, Andy wears suits with ease, looking every inch the superstar athlete, Andy keeps it modern, adding on-trend accessories such as a bold knitted tie.
Prince Charles was seen christening the Olympic sailing boat earlier this year, and has also actively spent his time meeting members of Team GB Olympic and Paralympic squads. This Royal recently opened the first ever men’s fashion week to hit London and is widely known for his regal style. The Prince is a fan of double-breasted suits for formal appointments and sports jackets for outdoor occasions and is a the ultimate dapper chap.
Will.i.am was one of the more unexpected torch bearers, and even managed to tweet while running with Olympic flame. We’ve accepted Will as an adopted Brit since he came across the pond earlier this year. Not only is he super cool, he’s also got the confidence to dress a bit more daringly. He’s quite the fan of bright colours and bold prints and isn’t afraid to express his personality through his clothes.
Lewis Hamilton is one of Britain’s most iconic racing drivers, becoming World Champion in 2008. He’s also been one of the many celebrity supporters of this year’s Olympics and participated in the torch relay. Hamilton is never far from a star-studded bash and teams his sharp suits with cool sunglasses to add a super slick edge to his look.
Mark Foster represented Team GB at five separate Olympic Games and is one of the most successful British swimmers of all-time. Foster was also given the honour of running in the torch relay ahead of this year’s ceremony. Foster’s suit style is more casual than most, but we big fans of his open-collar look, teamed with a smart blazer.
Ryan Giggs has landed a spot in Team GB’s football team, selected by Stuart Pearce. Aside from his football expertise, Giggs is also a bit of a dab hand when it comes to dressing for the occasion. Giggs often opts for simplicity, but with a perfectly cut suit, this is a winning look for the modern gent.
Tom Daley is one of the most talented young athletes in Team GB and hopefully he’ll be diving his way to Olympic gold next month. We can’t decide if we’re more impressed by Tom’s sporting ability or fashion sense as we’re so impressed by this young man’s knack for wearing a great tux. We look forward to seeing his style evolve in years to come.
