This story originally appeared on the Gents Cafe Newsletter. You can subscribe here.
Martin Copland-Grey (@caballero_copland_gray) lives in Stratford-upon-Avon and working as the Retail Manager for Shakespeare’s Birthplace Trust. “My name sounds very ouble barreled English,” he says, “but actually my father was from Argentina. It should have followed the latin tradition of combining your parents surnames, however it skipped a generation or so. Works a treat when you’re making a restaurant reservation, though!”
What are your main passions and how do you cultivate them?
Style, Music, Literature & Coffee. I’m always open to expanding my knowledge and appreciation of all of them. For example, digitally crate digging for tunes is an enjoyable experience now I no longer collect vinyl and it can be really inspiring. Likewise, discovering a coffee shop that serves a proper decent double espresso, killer brownies and has a welcoming atmosphere. This is where I like to write and watch the world go by.
How did you first develop an appreciation for style?
My appreciation for style began in the early 90s. I worked in fashion retail from the mid 2000s but it wasn’t until I moved to London in 2012 and met the tailors Richard Anderson & Mark Powell that my appreciation and understanding of what style means to me really hit home. I worked for both of them—albeit briefly—and during that time they were incredibly inspiring to me and still are to this day. Richard is, in my humble opinion, the best tailor out there, classic Savile Row but with an eye to Modernity. Mark is the epitome of Soho tailoring, more daring with a large helping of sex, drugs & rock n roll. One’s a glass of prosecco at The Wolseley and the other’s a pint of lager at Trisha’s on Greek Street!
Where do you primarily draw your style inspiration from?
I used to read a lot of men’s magazines for inspiration, but less so nowadays due to some of their political & brand affiliations. Instagram & Pinterest are on my radar these days where I follow stylish gentlemen such as Alessandro Squarzi, Bruce Pask, Robert Rabensteiner and a couple of friends of mine, Richard Biedul & William Gilchrist. They all appeal to different aspects of my style. I love to dress smart in a well cut blazer, knitted polo, slim cut trousers and loafers but more often than not I’m at my happiest in how my Dad, Douglas used to dress—Navy sweatshirt with the sleeves pushed back, beige pleated chinos with turn ups and a pair of off white pumps or sneakers. Classic.
What does “being well-dressed” mean to you?
It’s definitely not about trends, certainly not at my age anyway! I mix high and low fashion and over time I’ve learned that it’s less about how much you spend and more about how you put it together. For me, it’s being comfortable in your own style and dressing appropriately for the occasion. After all, the apparel oft proclaims the man.
Learning to connect with my breath on a daily basis has helped me navigate the path to being the best version of myself.
What’s a small habit that has made a big difference in your life?
Meditation and yoga have become an essential part of my life. Learning to connect with my breath on a daily basis has helped me navigate the path to being the best version of myself.
What’s a place that holds significant meaning for you, and why?
Venice. I’ve been visiting La Serenissima for more than 20 years and it holds a very special place in my heart. One summer I lived there for just over a month whilst performing in a Shakespeare play in the Teatro Fondamente Nuove that looked out over the lagoon. From that moment, I fell in love with the city. I’ve always had an affinity for the sea, and over time I’ve developed a passion for Venetian art, food & style. To me, it’s my second home.
What’s a brand that embodies your idea of quality?
Adret, just around the corner from Savile Row. It’s owned by a friend of mine Adam and is one of the most thoughtfully curated brands I’ve ever known. The style is elegantly casual and the quality of their fabrics is second to none. To me, the style evokes images of the Italian riviera of the 1950s. Quite simply sublime.
What podcast are you currently listening to, and what do you enjoy about it?
In Our Time with Melvyn Bragg. It’s an hour long conversation between him and a series of experts in their respective fields. Culturally, historically, scientifically & socially it’s all there and they really help me to wind down after a busy day. The episodes discussing the Sistine Chapel and The Arabian Nights are particular favourites.
What are your three favorite restaurants/cocktail bars?
Cafe Murano, St James’s—incredible authentic Italian dining by Angela Hartnett. The cuisine is super tasty and the staff are amazing.
The Osteria at Venissa on Mazzorbo—flavours direct from the Venetian lagoon courtesy of Chiara Pavan & Francesco Brutto. What can I say? I’m hooked!
Harry’s Bar, Venice—the original and the best. I’ve been visiting for nearly 20 years and I still love eating there. Mix me a Sidecar, pass me a bowl of olives and I’ll happily stand at the bar and people-watch all night.
What are your three favorite books?
The Count of Montecristo by Alexandre Dumas – the quintessential revenge story.
M Train by Patti Smith – beautiful, poetic & heartwarming prose from a fellow coffee devotee.
Shogun by James Clavell – Epic storytelling and the beginning of my love and fascination for all things Japanese.
