Theo Martins Talks Style, Fall Fashion Hits & Misses (Exclusive Interview)

(Photo by TONE)

We’re obviously well into the fall season, but if you happen to find yourself clueless when it comes to which threads to rock this season, we fully understand. But fear not, because today we’re giving you a taste of what looks will be in this fall thanks to Providence rapper/My City vet/fashion connoisseur Theo Martins.

Where He Resides: Providence, Rhode Island: “We're the smallest state in the country with such a large grasp of culture & taste.”

The 411: Since the release of his first mixtape, "The Birth", back in 2008 Providence-based emcee Theo Martins has gone on to tour with Kidz N The Hall and Warren G, his music has been featured on television network ABC, he’s released a number of mixtapes, and the list of musical accomplishments seems to go on.

Signature Style: “My signature style would best be described as classic. I don't necessarily have a specific look but when it comes to clothing pieces or styles I look for classic pieces: blue Oxford shirts, Clark desert boots, Boat Shoes, even Jordan Cement 3's. I'm all for variety and true expression so I make sure to follow those desires when adding to my collection.”

His Take On Fashion: “Fashion is generally defined as a style of dress, way of living or another expression that is popular at present and I agree with that. I enjoy fashion as well as the trends that follow but I'm more focused on style than fashion, it's much more timeless. Kelis said it best, 'How I dress is a reflection of me.'”

What’s In: “Americana style has been on the rise within the last year. Sweaters, boat shoes, Shawl cardigans, Paper boys, along with many other styles are being seen on more and more men around the globe.”

What’s Out: “I think the excessively baggy clothes are slowly making their way out as it looks like more and more young men are putting more value into the clothes they buy as well as the quality.”

Fall’s Must Have Item: “The must have item this season are the Tasseled Moccasin's and Lighthouse Boot from the Street Etiquette/Sebago Collaboration alongside Ronnie Feig. Superb shoe quality from Sebago along with incredible design from my good friends Joshua Kissi and Travis Gumbs of Street Etiquette.”

On Accessorizing: “Military bags or duffle bags (day bag as I was taught) for men traveling in and out of town or for those who aren't interesting in carrying around a backpack and want some variety. Scarves, whether a heavy wool scarf or a light chambray scarf - the option depending on preference, of course - this accessory will be a great piece to accompany you on a brisk afternoon or one of those windy autumn evenings. Watches, G-Shock seems to be the trendy timepiece of the moment but there are also other good pieces. Timex & J.Crew recently collaborated [on] a small number of timepieces that range in Military, Vintage Field Army and notably the 1600 (also worn by the great JFK).”

Brands To Look Out For: “J.Crew, I'm an avid supporter and I'm a fan of their product line. Within the past few years they've been becoming much more aware of the consumer and have found ways of adapting and setting trends with their quality collaborations and pieces. Sperry Topsider, if you're familiar with my music and my taste in style than you should be more than acquainted with this brand, phenomenal quality on their product. I have several pairs of their boat shoes and they seem to ripen with age, I love ‘em. TOM Shoes, In college I used to work for a shoe company that would sell these particular shoes, after learning of the brand's mission and history I became a supporter. The product quality is pretty impressive and they're collection is continuing to spread, I just tried on a new pair of some boots they have for the fall and they're great.”