Style Strategies
⇾ Geoff Haggray, Photographer
& Model
On the benefits of buying vintage, splurging on good socks and inspiration from Japanese magazines
Geoff Haggray is a man who's used to working on both sides of the camera. An accomplished photographer, Haggray studied the art and science of taking pictures at the revered Savannah College of Art and Design. Inspired by the work of veteran street photographers, Haggray found his calling by capturing small, quiet moments in the world around him—with a focus on vibrant colors, light and texture. His images are deep—the kind you want to stare at and keep noticing new things. The small details that drew him to snap his shutter in the first place.
He'll capture images with anything. Sure, he prefers his Leica M6 (who wouldn't?), but he's also produced amazing and stylish images with his iPhone and even disposable film cameras (remember those?). And when he's not on the street, behind the camera, he's in front of the lens—in photo studios or on locations as an in-demand model for such brands as J.Crew and Gant. Not surprisingly, the guy has impeccable taste and a great sense of personal style. He mixes classic prep with rugged vintage workwear and is a master at layering. So we had to ask him how he shops and what he's into at the moment.
Describe your personal style in
five words or less.
Amekaji, ivy and Popeye city boy.
What have you been into lately?
I've been working on collecting some of the inspiration I've found online, and archiving it in my own way. Whether it be Instagram or Pinterest, there are so many great images of style and clothing that I've found over the years. I want to be able to access these photos without having to be on the apps.
Best thing you’ve bought
under $20 recently?
This is probably the hardest question, as everything is so expensive now, but probably a copy of Popeye magazine—it is where I get a lot of inspiration.
Logan duck shoe,
$228 / $159.99 by Polo Ralph Lauren
What’s a purchase that was hard
to pull the trigger on?
I hope this counts, but I'm still thinking about buying this bike I've found online—it's a vintage style that I like. I'm just debating on whether I will get enough use out of it. The same can be said for these duck shoes made by Ralph Lauren that I've been looking at for months. I think they would make a perfect gardening shoe, but how often do I garden?!
Vintage Drizzler jacket,
$45 by McGregor
Anything else you’re looking to buy at the moment?
I'm looking for a good light spring jacket, something along the lines of a Harrington or McGregor Drizzler. I want it to be casual, but also wearable with an OCBD and a tie.
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What are you listening to lately?
Recently I've really been into '90s bands, including The Sundays, Everything But The Girl, and the Chinese band Supermarket (超级市场).
Model55 loafer,
$249 by Wildsmith
What’s your footwear rotation looking like these days?
This past winter I've been heavily relying on leather footwear. A favorite style has been my Classic Ranger Moc by Rancourt & Co.—they're easy to slip on and go with almost everything in my wardrobe. I'm normally in my Paraboot Chambord, but I've worn them to death, so they are in hibernation until I find a good cobbler. I have started wearing loafers as well these past few months. I have the Style 55 from Wildsmith in black and the Modena from Pompeii Brand. On rainy days, I have been wearing my ALDxNB Rainier high tops since they are built with Gore-Tex. Lastly, I've been loving the Middle English from Aurora Shoe Co.
How do you tend to shop: More online or more in person?
I try to shop in person because I like to get a feeling for clothing before I buy it—texture is very important in determining how long a garment will last and how it will age. Although, I do tend to shop online when I'm looking for something super specific. I see so many great pieces online, mostly vintage, but I would say I window shop more than buy.
Best city for shopping?
In my experience, I would have to say Tokyo. When I'm there I find myself looking to find clothing pieces that can act as anchors in my wardrobe. The types of items that you can base multiple outfits on. I particularly go to shops and brands that I can't find in America, or ones that I can find for much less. I also tend to come back from these trips with many knick-knacks. Japan has an overwhelming amount of objects for sale, whether it be toys, ceramics, cutlery, clothes, or books and magazines.
Bushtail socks,
$40 by William Ellery
Necessary extravagance?
This may be an easy answer but I would say my socks! I try to get only really comfortable socks. My sock drawer is mostly William Ellery wool socks, which I wear year-round, and primarily with my leather/suede shoes. I also have some cotton socks from Rototo, which I tend to wear with sneakers.
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Something you refuse to spend
a lot for ...
I would have to say food. I do eat out quite a lot, but I never eat at fancy or expensive restaurants—even for special occasions. Cheap eats always feel more worth it.
Nike Waffle Racer, $150 at StockX
Anything you buy multiples of
(either by design or default)?
For the last seven years, my favorite sneakers have been the Nike Waffle Racers. Many late nights, I have found myself searching the web for pairs in my size on the second-hand market. At the moment, I have six pairs, four of which are still wearable. When the warm weather comes, I love to hit the pavement in those shoes. I like to walk long distances through the city and they get the job done.
What’s one shopping tip or hack that you can let everyone know about?
I would recommend following and supporting vintage sellers. I think the best deals on vintage clothing can be found on the Instagram stories of vintage sellers. There are some dangerously good deals being made every day! I follow almost every vintage-selling account I can find.
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