This story originally appeared on the Gents Cafe Newsletter. You can subscribe here.
Dylan Layzell (@dylanlayzell) is a Real Estate Advisor based in Squamish, British Columbia. Originally from South Africa, he moved to Canada after spending his youth in the UK.
A caring father with a love for cycling and coffee, he carries a lifelong appreciation for detail and style shaped by his early years in motorsport. His philosophy is to wear what feels comfortable and confident while living with intention both at work and at home.
Whether it’s a morning workout, savoring a well-made cup of coffee, or sharing family dinners, Dylan finds meaning in small rituals that set the tone for a balanced and fulfilling life.
What are your main passions and how do you cultivate them?
Aside from being a dad, my biggest passions are cycling and coffee. I think it’s great that they also go hand in hand.
How did you first develop an appreciation for style?
Although I didn’t realize it at the time, my appreciation for detail and style began at an early age. I started racing motorcycles when I was just five, and much of my childhood was spent immersed in the world of motorsport. I would read magazines cover to cover, studying the riders’ technique, the motorcycles they rode, the gear they wore on the track, and the style they carried off it.
My introduction to menswear and fashion came later in life, but my approach has always been rooted in quality basics and simplicity. Today, I draw inspiration from timeless icons like Steve McQueen, whose effortless style bridges both fashion and motorsports.
What does “being well-dressed” mean to you?
For me, it’s as simple as wearing what makes you feel comfortable and confident—quality clothing that fits well and suits the occasion.
I make it a priority to sit down together for dinner most evenings. Sharing that time and having real conversations has become an important part of our routine.
How do you find time to unwind and slow down?
I like to slow down by making coffee at home. I set aside time to make the best cup I can and focus fully on the process. Even if it’s only a few minutes throughout the day, I enjoy that ritual.
As a family, no matter how busy life gets, my wife, daughter—although she’s still young—and I make it a priority to sit down together for dinner most evenings. Sharing that time and having real conversations has become an important part of our routine.
What’s a small habit that has made a big difference in your life?
Since becoming a father, I’ve found that starting the day early makes a huge difference. Some days are easier than others, but having quiet time before the house wakes up allows me to get a few things done and sets a positive tone for the day.
Most mornings I try to work out, which helps me feel energized and ready to take on what’s ahead. But even something as simple as enjoying a coffee while reading a few pages keeps me grounded and in a good head space.
What has been your most memorable or adventurous trip, and what made it so special?
I was born in South Africa but moved to the UK when I was young. At 18, I decided to spend a year in Canada, living in the ski resort of Whistler before starting university and settling into life.
Fast forward almost 14 years, and I’m still in Canada, now married and a father. What began as a temporary adventure turned into a lifetime of new memories.
What podcast are you currently listening to, and what do you enjoy about it?
I’m a big fan of Ryan Holiday and his work on Stoicism. I read The Daily Stoic every day, and I enjoy his Daily Dad podcast. The episodes are short but packed with great insight, and I’d recommend them to any dad looking for a quick hit of wisdom. For a longer listen, I enjoy the Acquired podcast—especially the episode on Porsche and Rolex.
What does your ‘daily uniform’ look like?
My daily uniform is casual. The area I live in is very relaxed, and formal wear is a rarity. People typically dress for the elements: we truly experience all four seasons here, so clothing choices depend on the weather. Most days I wear jeans, paired with a T-shirt in summer or a cashmere sweater and overcoat in winter.
What’s the first meaningful accessory you ever owned, and what does it mean to you?
It wasn’t my first watch, but a few years ago my mother-in-law gifted me her older TAG Heuer 2000. It needed a service, but it has worked perfectly ever since.
While it may not be a watch I would have chosen for myself, every time I wear it I’m reminded of the story behind it, and that makes it absolutely meaningful to me.
What are your three favorite books?
Atomic Habits – James Clear
Barbarian Days – William Finnegan
The Spy Who Came in from the Cold – John le Carré
What are your three favorite movies?
