My Style: Sergi Arola

A chat with Sergi Arola – two-time Michelin-starred chef, and the man behind Mumbai’s hottest Spanish restaurant – on bringing rock ’n’ roll to the kitchen

Describe your style.
Comfortable and casual. It’s been the same for the last 30 years; the only difference is that the colour of my hair has changed.

What was a defining fashion moment for you?
The­ first time I went to Tokyo. I love how the Japanese dress – I met people over the age of 50 who dressed casually and didn’t care about how they’d be perceived. Saying that, if I have to wear a tuxedo for a formal event, I’ll wear a tuxedo.

Your favourite designers?
I love Japanese brands, especially UnderCover, Visvim and Evisu. I don’t mind paying a price for these labels because you’re guaranteed great quality.

What do you wear when cooking?
Jeans, always. I’m a big fan of G-Star RAW’s denim.

What will you never throw out?
My boots and leather jackets. I have 30-odd leather jackets, and I still have my ­first pair of Doc Martens and Red Wings.

A trend you endorse?
I’ve been wearing bombers for years, although they’re everywhere on the runway now. They’re the biggest trend this season.

Three things you always travel with?
A good pair of jeans, a jacket and a couple of T-shirts.

What’s on your iPod?
I love the West Coast country rock of the Sixties and Seventies – The Clash, the Ramones, R.E.M. and the Foo Fighters are some of my favourite bands. Music is important to me – I also play the guitar and write songs.

Cooking aside, what are you passionate about?
Bikes. I own a Harley-Davidson, a Triumph and a BMW.

- Shivangi Lolayekar

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