Self-portrait wearing ‘ripped/modified’ collerless denim jacket, London UK – Summer 2015
I never really thought about it until I began this biography journey. I’ve come to realise I’ve created a few simple looks which I’ve rotated between over the years. I’d be wearing this stuff both on & off stage & the more I’ve refined it on-stage the less I wear it off stage! It’s nearly always pitch black, I think the plain t-shirt has been the big one; long or short-sleeved, the suede ‘desert boots’, the self-cropped jeans. I’d cut the collar from a denim jacket to make a frayed, collarless edge & wear leather shoe laces around my neck & wrist. I’ve been inspired by the things I love, it’s hard to confess but I must have been inspired by many others all at once. More recently I’ve introduced more of a ‘touch of class’ with things like a charcoal suit blazer.
Sam Jones
Humming the same tune.
My journey with DressCode is never dull. There have been some really interesting challenges or opportunities along the way.
Working with Sam Jones has really ‘filled my glass’. We’ve had a few people ask about sponsorship and collaborations. Heck we’ve already done some projects that I’m really proud of, stuff that I’ve had great fun developing. Of all the approaches we received, Sam stood out for me. I could see someone with the same drive and perseverance. A kindred spirit. Someone prepared to take the path less trodden.
What he has achieved is seriously impressive. He was born deaf! Discovered a love of percussion and rhythm at a very young age, following the vibrations at first. He’s gone on to establish himself, writing, performing and promoting his own UK and European tours. Pretty much single handed. That’s real determination and drive. Which I seriously admire. I’ll be honest, I wouldn’t know where to start. Yet he remains very humble and grounded. I love that, I hope that others, people who know me, would say the same about me????
Spending time together, talking through his life, his musical experiences and passions outside of clothes, yes we didn’t just talk fashion, was simply a really enjoyable thing to do – hopefully that comes across in the vids.
It has been so interesting. I’ve learnt loads, not just about Sam, but about myself and the way that I’m wired. When you’re in the thick of it, whatever the ‘it’ is that you’re doing, taking the time to look at, reflect and step away is powerful. I’m so pleased to have got to know Sam, learnt more about his life as a musician, writer and performer. And of course, talking fashion, up cycled fashion in particular and clothes.
The next time something outside the scope of your day to day comes along, what will you discover?
Andy Boothman
Wearing IKON ORIGINAL ‘monkey boots’, Stockport UK – November 2023
Wearing RELCO LONDON outfit, Poznań PL – Spring 2017
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