Behind closet doors: Nikhil Thampi

Nestled in the cosy bylanes of Lokhandwala, Nikhil Thampi’s 22nd floor penthouse is swanky and airy. While Thampi welcomes us with a hearty greeting, his beloved

Nestled in the cosy bylanes of Lokhandwala, Nikhil Thampi’s 22nd floor penthouse is swanky and airy. While Thampi welcomes us with a hearty greeting, his beloved beagles, Noah and Cara, seem just as excited to see us. Thampi’s love for fashion is evident when we enter his walk-in closet. A long rack bursts with jackets, vests and blazers, and a sliding mirror opens up to reveal an enviable shoe collection.

Closet staples: “I live in my denims and feel that indigo is the most versatile colour when it comes to jeans. Black and blue T-shirts are another must-have. When I have to dress up, I enhance my basics with a waistcoat or vest, which I mostly design myself. I love capes and draped kurtas as well. I feel a black blazer and crisp white shirt can see you through any occasion.”

All in the details: “Men have limited options when it comes to clothing, so I try to keep it interesting by adding fashion-forward details to my outfits. I am big on brooches and mostly sport customised ones designed by Mrinalini Chandra and Nitya Arora.”

Sunglasses mania: “I’m a sunglasses addict — I just can’t do without them. In fact, my father recently issued a warning that if I buy even one more pair, he’ll throw me out of the house. I have about 77 sunglasses that are a mix of designer buys and high-street finds. I generally wear big aviators but experiment with unique, quirky styles once in a while too.”

Thampi’s collection includes about 77 sunglasses that are a mix of designer buys and high-street finds (Pramod Thakur/ Hindustan Times)

All about watches: “A watch is a must for every man to finish his look. I don’t mind splurging on them as I feel watches are a great investment. I’m particularly attached to a vintage Rolex, which is a family heirloom. Other than that, I am a big Hublot fan.”

Favourite places to shop: “I can shop everywhere from Zara and Roberto Cavalli to vintage and flea markets. Hong Kong and London are my favourite cities to shop in, while Paris is great for high-end brands.”

Shoe story: “Slip-ons and loafers are more in tune with my style than lace-ups and brogues. I prefer nude, tan and brown shoes over black ones. A Dior pair that I’ve had for many years now is one of my favourites. It’s still as good as new.”

Next buy: “I’d love to own a large collection of Hublot watches, so I have been saving up for that. A Balmain jacket is high up on my lust list too.”

Fashion no-no: “I’d never wear low-waist baggy pants; they are unflattering. Loud colours and clashing prints are not my style either.”

Style inspiration: “Rahul Khanna has been a big influence. His style is classic, elegant and absolutely gentlemanly. My father is a very particular dresser too. So being well-turned-out is an inherent part of my DNA.”