This story originally appeared on the Gents Cafe Newsletter. You can subscribe here.
Meet Mr. Kevin Turton (@kevinturtonartdealer) from West Midlands, UK, Head of Art & Art Dealer at Graham Budd Auctions (@grahambuddauctionsltd).
Kevin, how do you define your style?
I would say my style is much more comfortable/contemporary as I get older. I really enjoy muted colors and soft cuts. I used to work as a tailor for Gieves & Hawkes on Savile Row. My style back then was much more “structured and British”. I now opt for super soft Italian fabric suits from SuitSupply as I love their light shoulder padding. For casual wear, I tend to stick to navy or black knitwear from Reiss and Uniqlo. Occasionally I will go made to measure which will be Italian or British cloth, cut in the Neapolitan style.
What does it mean for you to be a Modern Gentleman?
It has very little to do with the outward and everything to do with the inward. Manners, manners and more manners. I know it’s said time and time again, but it can’t be getting through to Men as most still lack any decent manners. Treat people well, be decent, control your anger and always look after your appearance (wear the best shoes you can afford).
When it comes to style, where do you mostly get your inspiration from?
I get inspiration from a few people. I like things simple. I like the guys at Thom Sweeney. Also, an entrepreneur called Charles Finch. He tends to have a very relaxed but elegant look. Individuals aside, I love browsing through Instagram for inspiration. I love the style in movies like Layer Cake and The Gentlemen.
What’s your personal style signifier?
I have two style signifiers which I am known for. The first is a beautiful ring I was gifted from Turkey. It has an aqeeq stone and is big and eye catching. The second is Tom Ford Oud Wood. I adore this scent and wear it daily alternating with Creed Aventus. I also try to look after my Cheaney Shoes and often get complemented on how well polished they are.
What are your favorite wardrobe essentials?
I love unstructured jackets. I own around 10 from Reiss and SuitSupply. Tailored trousers, navy or black roll neck jumpers, suede loafers and my Omega watch. I also own more dark t-shirts than I care to count. When not wearing a formal shirt, I live in dark t-shirts and roll necks.
What are your main passions and how do you cultivate them?
I have four daughters who are my world. Family is HUGE for me. After family is faith. Beyond Family and faith, I love, sell and collect Art, watches and cars. I collect watches with my daily being an Omega Seamaster. And my occasional vice is Cuban Cigars. One thing I try to do daily is walk for 45 minutes and read a book. I used to love reading but with social media, lost the passion. I am trying to ‘re-light’ the book passion. I once owned a Renault 5 GT Turbo. Best car I owned. I now seek another.
What does your ideal Sunday look like?
Sunday always starts at 10am with a coffee. I adore coffee. I then pick up a copy of the Sunday Times and catch up with the weeks events. I especially enjoy the business and culture pull outs. Afternoon is a family walk in the park then home for supper and the antiques road show on the BBC.
Describe an interesting trip you have taken and tell us and what’s the next destination on your bucket list.
In 2021 I was lucky to visit the Damien Hirst exhibition in Paris at the Foundation Cartier. Covid restrictions where still in place but it was a great experience to be able to see Hirsts cherry blossoms. I really want to do the Amalfi coast in a 2 seater sports car. But Indonisia with the family is next.
Tell us what can never be missing in your liquor cabinet.
I quit drinking 20 years ago. I stick to rich French coffee these days… and Montecristo cigars.
What are your three favorite books?
My handbook: How to win friends and influence people by Dale Carnegie. A MUST READ FOR ALL.
My spiritual uplift: Hearts Turn by Michael Sugich. Keeps me calm.
My Time Out: The Arrival of Spring by David Hockney. Brightens my day.
What are your three favorite movies?
Oh I am a big Guy Ritchie fan so it has to be The Gentlemen and Snatch. Witty British gangster movies with classic style, charm, and class. The Big Short is also a great movie, funny and sadly accurate.
Never miss a story – subscribe now to the Gents Cafe Newsletter, a bite-sized read about men’s lifestyle to enjoy over a coffee or a nice cocktail.