Celebrity stylist reveals the only time he’s been starstruck – and it wasn’t by The Rolling Stones
William Gilchrist, who has worked with everyone from The Rolling Stones to Jude Law, tells us which celebrity gave him goosebumps
What’s it like working with the rich and famous? “I was only ever starstruck once: when I was at a friend’s house party and I turned around and Joe Strummer from The Clash was there. I was literally stuck at that moment. With bands like The Rolling Stones, however, the first time I met them, I was focused on the job and getting to know their characters as best as I could.
“What really impresses me is if I am seeing someone doing what they love doing very well. It is their talent that impresses me. When I recently worked with Jude Law, who was doing a play at the Barbican [performing arts centre, in London], I saw him in his element. It was just like seeing The Rolling Stones perform. It’s these moments when I get goosebumps.”
What menswear brands excite you? “Caruso, at Joyce Gentleman, is a good example of a brand that has taken on board traditional craftsmanship while still having fun. It’s not satisfied with just producing a classic suit; it wants to inject character. Also, I think it’s going to be interesting to see what Haider Ackermann does with Berluti, because I enjoy his sense of colour and knowledge of fabrics.”
