Style Strategies: Michael Hill, Creative Director, Drake

In the evenings I will dig deep into the Internet. discover new brands and get different sources of inspiration on how to dress. One brand that I keep hitting the refresh button on is Drake’s. Beyond its impeccable ties, suits and shoes, the brand’s editorial page is one of the best lifestyle magazines for any clothing company. Regardless of whether the team is at the famous British restaurant St. JOHN or on the set of their latest seasonal campaign, the Drake gang demonstrates that great clothes are an integral part of a life well lived. And the man who brings it all together is creative director Michael Hill.

Drake’s was founded in 1977 by Michael’s father Charles Hill and Michael Drake. The duo founded the brand on bespoke ties and eye-catching scarves, which remain staples of the collection today. Growing up, young Michael accompanied his father to meetings and factory visits, so it was almost inevitable that at some point he would take over. He officially became the brand’s creative director back in 2010, but his path to the position involved studying in his hometown and abroad: “I spent time in Italy learning the ropes and Savile Row with Richard James learning at work, that’s important,” says Hill.

For a brand that’s been around for over four decades, it’s still relatively new in the States. Did you know that Drake’s has only been available in the US for the last six years? One thing’s for sure: they helped set the tone for the Ivy/Prep revival with their made-in-England shirts and Casentino fleece—not because it’s a trend for them, but rather out of the principle of dressing well in timeless clothing. . The brand’s lookbooks reflect Michael’s style, which is elegant and approachable. The guy in the soft-shouldered blazer, well-tailored trousers and polished Alden trousers looks both sharp and like he’s easy to talk to. We caught up with him to find out how he shops these days.