“It’s not about what you have, how much of it you have, or what brands they are…it’s all about how you wear it.” – Rick
Every time I have seen Rick, he’s never disappointed. The man can dress. When Rick stops by Reruns, I see him in bright colors, perfectly tailored jeans, slacks or shorts and at least one very epic accessory which he later tells me is the key to any great outfit. I’m drawn to his fearless but conservative pairings. Tribal print loafers, hand embellished denim, and family heirloom work-wear via granddad. He even commissioned local fashion designer and former Free People creative, Konane, to hand paint a pair of ordinary Ralph Lauren khakis. They’re amazing by the way.
B: How does your fashion sense play into your interior design?
R: The use of color and co-ordination, the melding of all different patterns. Throughout the house you’ll see the use of pattern with the geometric rug; just bringing that all together. I’ve always done that. In fact at one point, I went to market in Atlanta and this lady asked my partner Jim if I got dressed in the dark because I had on so many patterns. But I’ve toned it down a lot over the years.
B: How long have you been interested in fashion? Were you first interested in fashion or in interior design?
R: Fashion. Because I can remember the first designer name I had was a white Ralph Lauren polo shirt with the player on it. I can remember I was always one of the best dressed in school.
Beaded Donald J. Pliner mules
B: When you were younger what style were you into most? Did it change a lot?
R: It changed a lot. I’ve always been interested in color and my philosophy is you don’t want to be like anyone else. Why would I want to be like everybody else walking down the street? I want something that sets me apart even if folks think that I’m crazy. I was probably much more trendy when I was young but now I’m more conservative than I used to be with a unique element every time.
B: I agree! Do you feel that the trends have caught up with you?
R: That’s hard to say. I tend to shy away from being trendy. I do what I want to do.
Though his 2000sqft loft is vibrant and patterned it never seems over stated. In fact, it is very elegant and playful. And after perusing his lock and key closet, I see the influence carry over. Despite his almost 100 piece belt collection his wardrobe is modest in size but not in scope. Well organized yet abundant in texture, pattern and color the selection is artfully curated. Although there is play with high/low (JCP sweaters/Stubbs and Wootten loafers) I did spy a pair of horn-rimmed Cartier sunglasses. In other words, he’s willing to back a few choice pieces.
As Rick pulled down his prized L V backpack, I spied an incredible oversized, cross-body carpet bag. He reveals his love of anything Ralph Lauren and praises the designer for creating a life style brand, “He creates a lifestyle not just a design and I think that’s fabulous.”
Interview by Brianna Lamberson, Photos by Amanda McCall
Reruns Boutique 