Tom Close on switching from fancy stage outfits to a doctor’s coat

TOM Close wears two hats; well not literally, he is a physician by day and an entertainer when the sun sets. This requires frequent wardrobe adjustments to blend with the different surroundings. The singer/doctor shares some of the fashion tips he lives by. What’s your preferred casual wear on an ordinary day? A white or colourful shirt or t- shirt and for the trousers, I don’t take too much time choosing a pair. I prefer white shoes. You have a day job as a doctor and you also have to hit the stage once in a while for performances. Is it hard shifting from formal to casual? To strike a balance between being a performer and a doctor, I choose an outfit depending on where I’m going and what I’m going to do. Does your day job in any way influence your dress code? Yes, there are some stage outfits that I can never wear at work because I want to look professional. What style or clothing items do you think men should avoid forever? A man should always dress like a man. I think they should avoid outfits that make them look otherwise. Where would you recommend men to shop for clothes? It’s always good to shop from clothing stores but I prefer having a personal designer, more so if you are a public figure. When someone knows you, they will search all corners to get you what they think you will like. What’s your take on second hand clothes? This is Africa and getting brand new things is difficult, so yes I wear them. But I put into consideration the condition they are in. What hair style do you think grown men should avoid? I think anyone should have the hairstyle of their choice depending on what pleases them and the kind of work they do. But I prefer to keep it simple. Do you think facials, manicure and pedicures are necessary for men? No. I think men should remain natural. Who do you borrow your dress sense from? I don’t look to anyone. What do you consider when shopping for clothes? It depends on the occasion but generally I prefer unique things. What’s your favourite fashion accessory? Watches and shoes. What accessory do you think every guy should have? It might not be an accessory as such but every guy should have a wallet.