This story originally appeared on the Gents Cafe Newsletter. You can subscribe here.
Meet Mr. William Rothwell-Torres (@willrothwell_) from San Francisco California, Client Advisor at San Francisco based suitmaker Tailors Keep.
William, how do you define your style?
I would dub it “Utilitarian menswear”. Everything in my wardrobe has a purpose, and it all meshes and works for me, whether it’s my daily commute to the tailor shop or a quick drink around the corner with my colleagues after hours.
What does it mean for you to be a Modern Gentleman?
A modern Gentleman is a person continuing to uphold the standard definition of “A gentleman” and keeping those traditions and values alive in an ever-changing world.
When it comes to style, where do you mostly get your inspiration from?
I get a lot of my influence from Ralph Lauren who, in turn, takes inspiration from Old Americana. Sprinkle in a dash of Italian tailoring nonchalance from time to time.
What’s your personal style signifier?
My Vintage Levis Trucker jacket. It’s been with me since I found it in college, and there have probably been plenty of other places guessing by the fades in it. It’s always been my go-to layering option when all else fails.
What are your favorite wardrobe essentials?
It has to be my vintage Brooks Brothers bangle stripe OBD; It works with my suits, jeans, and off-day outfits. I miss the days of a great Brooks Brothers oxford and its versatility. I find myself making a new one every year, but I can’t quite capture the roll and look of a vintage one.
What are your main passions and how do you cultivate them?
I’ve been enthralled with Menswear since I was a pre-teen, but only really had the means or the knowledge to get into the industry after I graduated from university and took up an apprenticeship with a tailor by sheer chance. Since then, I’ve worked and met with some of the best in the industry and have made lifelong friends that keep the passion alive.
What does your ideal Sunday look like?
Spending Sundays with my girlfriend and our dog Juno at the farmers market. Or, if it’s baseball season, being at a Giants game.
Describe an interesting trip you have taken and tell us what’s the next destination on your bucket list.
I spent two weeks traveling around Italy in October, and it was one of the best trips I’ve ever taken. Getting to meet in person with many people and brands I found via social media was terrific. Not to mention the overconsumption of negronis and carbs along the way. The next trip is to Paris in the Summer to visit my family.
Tell us what can never be missing in your liquor cabinet.
Currently, it’s Jameson because no one has ever said no to Jameson. But one day, I’ll change my answer to Fuji Single Grain here.
What are your three favorite books?
The Witcher Series, F*ck yeah Menswear, and The Man in the High Tower.
What are your three favorite movies?
So many to choose from, but off the top of my head: The Prestige, American Me and There Will Be Blood.
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