Chris Bowater, CEO and company director of Bowater Hyundai, Isuzu and Renault, has perfected the smart casual business look. Chris accredits his style to knowing what he likes, being efficient and, of course, a few tips from his wife Yvonne.
What are you wearing today?
My Abelard shirt and Rembrandt chinos are from Nelson Tailors Menswear. I got the jacket from Japan while we were there for the Rugby World Cup, and my boots are from Singapore.
What is your style?
I would say business casual meets smart casual. I like simplicity and classic tailoring with a twist.
What is most of your wardrobe made up of?
Suit pieces (jackets, shirts and trousers) as most of my week is spent in a business setting.
What are you loving at the moment?
My classic denim jacket, it’s weathered and old but looks great with everything.
Where do you buy most of your clothes from?
I like to buy local, so much of my wardrobe is acquired in Nelson. From jandals bought at Hogey’s on Hardy Street to business wear from Sharon at Nelson Tailors Menswear on Trafalgar Street. Sharon has a fantastic range, and she gives great dress advice. My other pieces tend to be sourced from holiday travels.
What is your approach to shopping?
Efficiency! I know what I like and what suits me. I hate trying on too many options, so I zone in on those pieces quickly and then make a decision to buy or not to buy.
What is your all-time favourite clothing item?
My American college-inspired Nelson Rugby Football Club team jacket, it still looks fantastic after almost 30 years.
What has been your worst clothing disaster?
Most of my wardrobe choices in the 1980s (life before wife!). White trousers, striped toe socks with jandals… never going to be good looks for me!
What wardrobe item should everyone invest in?
I would say a well-tailored jacket, especially a suit or sports jacket, and a timeless classic denim jacket looks good with everything. They are really versatile and can be dressed up or down.
Do you have a style rule you always obey?
Not so much a style rule but an absolute must for me is wearing the pounamu gifted to me by my precious daughters. It holds a very special meaning and I wear it every day, with everything.
If you could raid one person’s wardrobe, who would it be?
It would be the two Ryan’s – Reynolds and Gosling. I love their casual smart, put-together style.
Finish this sentence – You would never catch me wearing…
An Auckland Blues rugby jersey or anything Auckland Rugby!
