Steven Giles, curator, Base Miami
As the curator at Base, Giles must know a thing or two about fashion. The store has been featured in The New York Times, Ocean Drive, Lucky, GQ, and Elle Décor, among others, and is a Lincoln Road institution. His job? He’s the man responsible for the sultry mix of Nixon watches, life-sized horses, up-and-coming brands, and indie magazines found at the store."

How does Miami influence your personal style?
“Living in a constant tropical climate calls for some adaptation. Tweed is not an option, for instance, so I have learned to dress appropriately for the weather without losing all sense of style integrity.”

How has Miami shaped your career?
“I guess it gave me unparalleled opportunities to be myself and to have found an audience that seems to appreciate what I do.”

What separates the Miami male consumer from that of other markets?
“Without wishing to offend in any way, I do wish more men saw clothing as something other than mere covering. If I had wanted to wear a uniform, I'd have joined the Marines. We live the lifestyle dream in Miami, and that should be expressed in every possible way. There are alternatives to button-down shirts and boat shoes! Most style is largely the result of peer pressure and perhaps that extra layer of confidence is yet to permeate our market, which is undeniably filled with some of the most attractive specimens on the planet.”

Photo: Courtesy of Steven Giles