Living anywhere in which spring weather fluctuates from slightly chilly to stagnantly hot, you’ll need to learn the art of layering. One of my favorite artist & designers Hamid Holloman from West Philly has a unique take on spring layering and style in general. His brand Custom Lifestyle by: Hamid Holloman includes an array of handmade clothing & re-purposed vintage pieces (with many ethnic twists). Once you take a look at his collection, you’ll walk away with an understanding that Hamid is a true artist that share his skills through the art of creating clothing.
For a bit of inspiration, I’ve tapped Hamid to show off his creative spring layering style and to tell you a bit more about his style philosophies. Remember, let us know what you think about this feature in the comments below.
Vested & Patchwork Pants
Straw Panama Hat – Vintage Bally | Watch – Vintage Swiss Military | Navy Polo Shirt – Vintage Pierre Cardin | Denim Vest – Vintage Lee Brand | Patchwork Pants & Denim/Leather Duffel Bag – Custom Lifestyle by: Hamid Holloman | Longwing Shoes – Frye | Glasses – Lucky Selectism
Creative spring layering is based as much in style as it is in function. What stands out about the way Hamid puts looks together is that his style encompasses a workwear meets eclectic artist. That being said, functionality seems to reign supreme in his choice of breathable fabrics, layered with denim that can take a beating when his in his workshop creating new clothes.
“My style is every bit of abstract and unplanned artistic execution but my foundation is always based on knowledge. Knowledge of what’s going to last and what’s appealing and most importantly knowledge of what represents me. Comfortable, unique and stylish is everything I represent in terms of style. “, says Holloman.
Denim Jacket & High Tops
Woven Straw Hat – Super Duper Hats | Gold Watch – Peugeot | Multi-colored Shirt – Vintage Eddie Bauer | Yellow Chinos – Polo by Ralph Lauren | Red Canvas High-Top Sneakers – Adidas
It’s no secret that a denim jacket is a spring layering essential — in fact, it’s a life essential. What Hamid demonstrates throughout this entire is the concept of reverse layering. Reversing laying is easiest to pull off when you layer a piece of outerwear over a longer shirt. This look can be executed my layer shorter knit pullover shirt (sweater/sweat shirts) over longer t-shirts.
MSP: How has living in Philly influenced your style?
HH: “The influence is great because it kind of puts you in a world where your forced to be creative. I mean you have the option of following what others do here but for the most part a lot of creatives take charge and try to create something unique, I think that energy is just in the air here. Be creative, be unique, be yourself and everything else will fall into place just by “keeping it real”. Philly is definitely a unique experience from other place I’ve been, it’s random happening kind of place which has always been influential to me.”
Unsuited
Newsboy Cap – Knickerbocker mfg | Watch – Vintage Swiss Military | Vest – vintage (tailored in Philadelphia) | Pants & Shoes – Vintage | Leather & Fur Briefcase – Vintage | Green Socks – American Trench
MSP: When you think about layering a spring look, what is the process of selecting pieces & do you have any go to pieces for spring?
HH: “First, the style, weight, fabric and lastly colors. Comfort is most important in my book. In regard to go to spring pieces, it would have to be the lightweight ethnic prints pants with denim pockets. Lightweight t-shirts and suit vest are good sources of lightweight layering and pattern mixing — provided what look one may be going for.”
Photograpy: Sabir M. Peele
Special thanks to Hamid for participating. To see more of his clothing & accessories line Custom Lifestyle by: Hamid Holloman – click the image below.
