Style Profile: James Daly
Jimmy wears red micropleat top by Issey Miyake ME with his own jewellery.
Inspired by a new generation of fashion creatives emerging to rouse the sleepy streets of Perth from their sartorial slumber, Dilettante caught up with the inimitably effervescent man-about-town James "Jimmy" Daly.
Jimmy visited Dilettante to play dress-ups in Issey Miyake's wardrobe of indispensibly luxe staples, and to share his thoughts on fun, fashion, and fabulousness with Dilettante's director, Diana.
Photographed by Tülay Dinçel.
Jimmy wears button-up top by Pleats Please Issey Miyake with pleated bag by Issey Miyake ME and sunglasses by Kuboraum.
Diana: You've been visiting the store lately wearing some cute Issey Miyake and vintage Gaultier tops. When did your fascination with fashion begin?
Jimmy: I think ever since I can remember I’ve been allured by the world of fashion, but one moment really sparked my curiosity. When I was either thirteen or fourteen, I watched Alexander McQueen's Spring/Summer 1996 collection on YouTube at school. I was shook! The models walked down the runway in these beautiful sheer bustiers, flipping the audience the middle finger. I thought it was so punk, but at the same time sexy and beautiful because of the silhouettes.
You work as a merchandiser for Louis Vuitton. What are the perks of working for a powerhouse like LV?
I think the most rewarding part of my job is the platform to grow and learn within the company. My manager is based in Melbourne and I’m here in Perth, so my role quite autonomous. I’m very grateful for this opportunity to work for such a big name like Louis Vuitton, but also to have a supportive manager to help guide me along the journey.
Jimmy wears Issey Miyake ME red APOC tank top and pleated bag. Pants and shoes Jimmy's own.
How would you describe your style?
This is a hard one... I don’t know how to put it into words. As cliché as it sounds, my style really depends on my mood for the day. Some days I’ll wear something loud like a vintage Gaultier mesh top or other days I'll dress more understated and discreet. Luxe casual is usually how I would describe my look for the day haha.
Do you have a style icon?
My number one style icon is Miuccia Prada! I love her approach to fashion and style. She really stays true to herself and doesn’t follow trends, which I admire a lot. Especially today, when everyone copies everyone, Miuccia doesn’t!
What is it about the art of dressing that appeals to you? How does fashion make you feel?
Fashion, the way I see it, is supposed to be fun and expressive. I love the art of planning a look. Taking the time to think about what and why I'm going to wear something. Fashion has helped me feel more comfortable with myself and gives me the confidence to be luxe gay vibes.
Jimmy wears mustard APOC top by Issey Miyake ME with Pleats Please cream cap and sunglasses by Kuboraum.
Did you do anything fun for PRIDE last weekend?
Yes! I went to Rave Relief at the Rechabite - a charity party run by Homopolitan who are doing a lot for the LBGTQ+ community in Perth. It was hot and steamy, with podium dancers and performances by local queer artists. Of course I ended the night (early morning haha) on the terrace at Connections dancing to Madonna.
You just celebrated your 24th birthday with a couture themed dinner party, can you tell us about it?
Omg I love this question. It was absolutely fabulous! It was a curated five-course long table dinner party in my friend Louis’ garden. It took three months of planning by myself and the Couture Committee (yes, I had a committee haha). My friend Nick Harle did the flowers and Manuka did the catering. Lots of vintage Comme and Walter were present that night. It really was amazing!
I have to mention one of my three looks for the evening - my favourite one! The iconic Vivienne Westwood paper bag fish dress that I bought from your store. I’ve had my eye on it for so long and it was perfect for the theme. I styled it with matching Vivienne Westwood pearl earrings and pendant choker, a vintage McQueen blouse, lace gloves and a Venetian parasol. I got to live my Glenn Close in Dangerous Liaisons fantasy.
Left: Jimmy wears long-sleeve yellow top by Pleats Please and pleated blazer and blue bag by Issey Miyake ME. Sunglasses by Kuboraum.
Right: Jimmy wears micropleated blue top with yellow Punching Bag by Issey Miyake ME.
What are your favourite things to do around Perth?
I love the beach, so one of my favourite things to do is go to north Cottesloe for a swim and sun bake. Also hanging out in Northbridge eating cheap Asian food, shopping and antiquing.
Where do you see yourself in 20 years time?
I haven’t really thought of that before! In the last few years I've started to invest in collecting vintage designer pieces from my travels around Europe and whatever I can find online. In 20 years from now I hope my small collection expands to a big archive of unique and one-of-a-kind pieces.
D.
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Throughout, Jimmy wears Issey Miyake.