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WALE OYEJIDE

wale oyejide

Wale Oyejide lives in four dimensions. He’s a lawyer, singer, artist and fashion maven who refuses to leave any experience on the table. He wants it all, and we believe he’ll get it. Recently, we caught up with Wale to discuss travel and the launch of his site, LessGentleMen. It’s a wonderful resource for style and inspiration. As Wale describes it, “The site is all about the unbridled hubris of the ever-evolving man.” Scroll down to view the entire interview.

Interview: Taj Reid
Photography: Justine Chang for wejetset

wale oyejide

beginnings

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It’s hard to pinpoint where my love of art and fashion began. I’ve pursued a lot of different things because I’ve seen someone I admire doing it in an interesting way and realized that I could do it too – not necessarily better, but in a way that represents what I’d like to see in the world. So whether it’s the law, music or my fashion, I’ve always felt like I have something positive to add to the conversation. Plus, I have really talented friends that inspire me and help me put together my ideas – people like Dave from 12RND who’s a fantastic photographer. Together, we’ve found a way to create our own voice with some of the style shots you see on LessGentleMen.

fashion travel

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When it comes to travel, going to Japan was my first major fashion memory. There I saw people making a huge effort to dress well – especially the guys going to work. It was beyond expression. It was regimented. It was the official work way. I also noticed their menswear – they’re taking bits and pieces from Europe and executing it in a way that puts them at the forefront of fashion these days. That’s what I love about travel. It exposes you to so many styles and ideas – especially in cities that collectively do fashion well. But, in all of my travels, I would say Paris is as close to a fashion capital if one exists. Every street corner feels like a post card. That’s the best city visually.

travel experiences

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The first time we came into Japan we were riding the train from Osaka to Hiroshima. It was dawn and you could see the sun coming up from Mount Fuji. It was beautiful. A nice reminder for why anyone should travel. There’s so much to see and experience out there.

travel essentials

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I always travel with a sport coat. You need something that allows you to dress up or dress down. That way you’re prepared for any occasion. You never know what situation you may find yourself in, so a nice sport coat is invaluable.

travel tips

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It’s important to dress well when you travel. Don’t wear sweatpants. My parents always told me that when I travel I represent where I’m from so it’s important to represent that place well. That’s why I get dressed up whenever I travel, so maybe you’ll wonder where I’m going and where I’m coming from.

— el fin.

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