When not tending to Beson Kading Interior Design Group or his South Florida vacation home, interior designer Billy Beson cultivates his wardrobe. His room plans are known for blending elegant and exotic elements, and Beson has translated this trademark aesthetic into his attire by combining classic navy suits with a punch of Roberto Cavalli whimsy. At Beson’s Minneapolis penthouse, we skipped the sweeping view of Loring Park to tour his masterpiece closet, four chandeliers and all.
His best outfit:
“Joystick brown T–shirt with leather patches and white True Religion jeans.”
Labels he loves:
“In general, I really like Cavalli. But Dolce & Gabanna, Gucci, and Prada are also high on the list.”
Secret to being a man of style:
“Accessories make the outfit: belts, shoes, cuff links, ties, and pocket squares.”
What he wears to Lunds:
“I usually wear crap from the Gap. Or maybe something sporty. If you dress up too much or look too nice, people are afraid to approach you. I don’t like that.”
Not a sports fan, but . . . :
“I own a Kansas City Chiefs jersey. I only wear it when I visit my friend who plays for them—Tony Gonzales, number 88.”
One of his craziest impulse purchases:
“Several years ago, I was at brunch in Chicago. After consuming several bloody marys, I wandered into the fur department at Neiman Marcus. Seven thousand two hundred dollars later I was on a plane back to Minneapolis. The coat was monogrammed and hand-delivered by courier. I now have bloody marys after shopping!”
Where that coat is now:
He sold it to a hairdresser friend for $1,000.
Currently reading:
Running with Scissors, by Augusten Burroughs.
Signature scent: Boucheron Jaïpur cologne by Boucheron Paris.
Signature cocktail: Sidecar, up.
Advice for the less style-inclined:
“For people who have trouble building a wardrobe effectively, find a fashion consultant or personal shopper who can help you develop your look and style.”
His personal shopper of choice:
“Todd [Fliginger]at Neiman Marcus. He knows what I have in my closet and lets me know when something I might like comes into the store. I also use Neiman Marcus for tailoring.”
Never, ever would wear: “Clogs.”
| Beson’s Top Shelf Printed, graphic bright shirts: From Cavalli to Kuhlman. Ties: Bold is always better. Shoes: His favorite pair is definitely these Armani pony-hair loafers. |