[the style setter]

Mario Olimpio 
36, Italian. General Manager at add mind

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What’s your favourite wardrobe item?
A blue shirt — it’s simple and can be worn for casual or formal occasions, which is useful for my work as I have a new Italian concept opening soon in Dubai. Blue represents loyalty and is a happy colour for me to start my day with.

How would you describe your style?
Mixed; mainly casual as well as trendy with a little twist.

What does your style say about you?
I am a conservative man and respectful of traditions, which is reflected in the way I dress. However, there should always be little details in what I wear that break the rules.

What’s the best style advice you can give our readers?
Always wear the jacket; don’t let the jacket wear you.

What’s the best style advice you’ve ever been given?
My father told me to wear something that I feel comfortable in, and not to wear anything for anyone else. He also told me to always wear something that has sentimental value to it.

How has your style changed as you’ve got a bit older?
It has changed quite a lot! Sometimes when I look at a picture from when I was a child I am very surprised. As I have got older, I’ve tended not to follow trends and dress to create my own identity, not someone else’s. 

Does your style change when you travel?
I am a chameleon at all times with my style, I don’t like to be in a box. I simply adapt to the situation or country I am in. For me, style is something that links with occasions rather than locations.

Who’s your style icon?
I have a few icons I look up to style-wise, such as James Dean, Alexander McQueen, Marlon Brando, Tom Ford and Jude Law.

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