Wardrobe-building with János Grosz
In this series, you can get a glimpse into my clients' wardrobes.
Through Ábel FP's photos, we present the outfits we designed together, while also getting to know János's style and his impressions through the interview.
Could you please introduce yourself in a few sentences?
-I’m János Grosz, 41 years old, living in Budapest with my wife and my 11-year-old stepdaughter. I’m a dentist, and I can call it my vocation, as it’s important to me to represent the highest quality, a mindset that extends to many other areas of my life. Besides this, I also work in education, organizing courses for dentists. Along with professional knowledge, we hope to soon offer lifestyle tips and hedonistic experiences to the participants. Additionally, I have a mid-level sports coach qualification, although I only use it for my own benefit.
How would you describe your style? What memorable moments or influences have shaped your taste? (study, travel, culture, etc.)
-In everyday life, I would describe my clothing style as classic, clean, and elegant. These are the values that are important to me in dressing, along with my love for quality and attention to detail.
As a child, I would study while Fashion TV was playing in the background, which was my first exposure to fashion. Later, during university, I met Kati néni, who was not only a store clerk but also a true style consultant, who guided me towards quality and elegant dressing. The next big influence came in London, where I traveled frequently for work. I explored the city center on foot, observing how people dressed, and I was in awe of the Savile Row shops and British tailoring style. Simultaneously, I was introduced to Italian style by my Italian colleagues, which also had a significant impact on me.
What is the one clothing item you can never have enough of in your wardrobe, and why?
-This has changed a lot throughout my life, revolving around shirts, shoes, bags, cycling- and sportswear. Since environmental consciousness is essential to me, quality is more important than quantity. I’d say that if I can always wear shoes that are appropriate for the occasion and for my outfit and are comfortable as well, it will greatly contribute to my sense of authenticity and comfort. For example, even with a simple dark pair of jeans, I can create a completely different effect depending on whether I wear white sneakers, hiking boots, loafers, double monks, or brogues. This variety is important to me.
Which is your favorite tailored piece of clothing, and why?
-Oh, I’ve thought a lot about this answer, because it’s hard to single out just one piece; many have their own story. Perhaps I’d highlight my latest navy blue double-breasted blazer, because I had wanted one for a long time, but I wasn’t brave enough to get it. Now you gave me the confidence to do so, and it turned out to be a great decision.
What tip would you give to someone who doesn’t yet have tailored pieces in their wardrobe?
-For those just getting familiar with this world, I’d recommend thinking in terms of a full concept, a way to build a wardrobe. Start with classic, simple pieces, but take advantage of the fact that you can control every little detail.
Has clothing always been important, and much so?
-My love for clothing has accompanied me since high school. Even as a young person, I tried to be a "memorable" personality, although my style back then was quite different from my current mature one. I come from a simple middle-class family and didn’t have many clothes, but I always carefully selected what I had, often spending my student loans on one or two more eye-catching pieces. Later, when I had more opportunities, elegant attire came to the forefront, and eventually, I distanced myself from fashion trends, finding my style in the custom-made but simple wardrobe. I’ve developed tried-and-true, simple combinations, so I don’t have to think much about what to wear in the mornings (the eternal struggle), and this way my appearance doesn’t feel forced, and I feel comfortable in my skin.
Do you think taste, style, and expressing one’s personality through clothing can be learned?
-It’s something that can be learned and developed, and it’s important to get to know and learn the basics of style, the history of fashion, and its traditions. However, it’s essential to find our path and the little details that make us authentic. I could wear the most expensive clothes, but if I don’t feel comfortable in them if they don’t feel like "me," it will be noticeable in my appearance.
How often do you wear a suit and on what occasions?
-Due to my job, I spend most of my day in medical attire, so I have fewer opportunities to dress up nicely. However, I try to dress elegantly once a week, just for myself. I regularly wear suits during my lectures and at conferences. I believe that when I stand in front of an audience, I not only need to set an example professionally, but also with my life and attire. As a speaker, I feel this responsibility, and although formal dress codes have relaxed significantly, I still like to honor my audience with a tie.
Who influences your style and life the most? Why is their opinion important to you, and why do you look up to them?
-I try to follow my own path, but I’m always impressed by how certain (mostly Italian) speakers wear a classic ensemble with such ease. Otherwise, I draw a lot of inspiration from social media, but I usually ask for your opinion on matters of style.
Do you have any other hobbies, and what have they brought into your life?
-Sport has been a part of my life since I was young, currently in the form of cycling and running, but any outdoor activity works for me. Sports teach discipline and consistency, and besides that, maintaining my health is a positive side effect, which is important to me.
