Words by Grayson Brewer, Stylist

In an era saturated with social media and advertisement, overconsumption has become commonplace in the world of fashion. For many, the essence of personal style has been lost in the pursuit of microtrends and pressure to conform to what’s considered ‘en vogue’. Amidst this sea of trends, I had the privilege of delving into Costia’s approach to styling. His perspective on style is refreshing and intentional, prioritising quality and natural fibers, pairing thoughtfully curated statement pieces with timeless silhouettes. His day-to-day looks exude an elevated effortlessness, seamlessly transitioning from daytime lectures to evenings out.

How would you describe your personal style (in three words or less)?

Versatile, classic, individual.

What themes do you incorporate into your style, and how would you style a look?

I believe my style to be adaptable, as I gravitate towards outfits that can easily transition from casual to elevated. It not only saves me time when getting ready for spontaneous evening plans, but also reduces the necessity for a vast wardrobe and participation in overconsumption. Having a versatile wardrobe also proves to be practical during my travels, allowing me to harmonise my look with my surroundings, the climate I’m in, and the daily activities that the environment entails. For example, when I’m in Russia I wear newer clothes and sometimes logos, aiming to look more polished, whereas in the south of France I don’t mind wearing hand-me-downs, linen, and more loose-fitting, relaxed outfits.

The way I choose to style a look greatly varies on the occasion, however, I always tend to gravitate towards pieces made from natural materials, prioritising neutral colours and simple silhouettes as the foundation of my outfits. From there, I enjoy adding personal elements that will either bring a touch of colour or an eclectic flair, particularly in the choice of accessories, bags, and shoes.

Who (or what) inspires you in fashion?

Couture designs from both past and present Fashion Week runways are a major source of inspiration for me. Their handmade nature, focus on tailoring and craft resonates with me as I also design and sew my own pieces. More particularly, I find myself drawn towards Zegna’s runway collections both for designing and styling my outfits. In my opinion, their use of natural materials and the elegant, but colourful silhouettes strike the perfect balance between formal and casual wear, perfectly aligning with my own style preferences.

Where do you source your clothes from (retail, thrifting, passed down by generation, etc)?

Most of my clothes are either hand-me-downs from family members or my own designs, allowing me to tailor more classic pieces to my liking. I rarely buy new clothes, except for what I would call statement pieces: most of which I often end up wearing daily after all. When choosing a statement piece, I try to seek out different textures such as velvet, silk, or mohair. I also try to find items in unique colours that I don’t already have in my wardrobe. I also pay attention to craftsmanship and the overall design of the piece. I try to have clothes that I can mix and match so that any outfit can look relaxed and fit for daily wear, or be dressed up by incorporating more formal elements in the evenings. This could be done by putting an evening jacket on top of my daytime outfit or by adding more accessories such as an evening bag or switching out the shoes.

Costia wearing his favourite red velvet mules.

Tell us about your favourite item of clothing or what piece of clothing you would consider your ‘signature’ look.

My red velvet mules currently hold a special place in my wardrobe as they offer a striking contrast to my predominantly neutral attire. The deep, rich red hue of the velvet provides a bright pop of colour which offers a vibrant accent to my outfit, making it bolder and more sophisticated without being too overpowering. The texture of the velvet adds a flair of elegance to any outfit, making them my preferred choice for both casual and semi-formal occasions. In addition to their texture, their unique design by Alessandro Michele pays homage to the rich tradition of Italian craftsmanship, which I find blends the timelessness of classic pieces with contemporary style. Their unparalleled comfort makes them an effortless selection and prompts me to reach for them without hesitance. Although they may not be the most practical for the rainy Scottish weather, they are a favourite nonetheless.

Timeless Style with a Personal Touch: Costia Mareschal