The Dapper Diaries

The Celebrated designer duo and the understated actor come together for a sartorial escapade.

- Shantanu Nikhil & Nikhil Mehra With Abhay Deol

The gentle pitter patter of an early monsoon drizzle softens the otherwise steamy edge of a summer afternoon, as three dapper and accomplished gentlemen assemble under one gleaming roof – at Shantanu and Nikhil’s flagship men’s couture store. Designers du jour, Shantanu and Nikhil, along with their virile muse, Abhay Deol, strike a pose as Justin Timberlake’s latest hit plays over the vintage grey sadarali stone environs from Abhay’s personal iPod. An accomplished actor and scion of the famed Bollywood Deol family, (he is the nephew of iconic film actor, Dharmendra) Abhay’s style savvy is evident – the perfect fit for Shantanu & Nikhil’s sculpted designs comprising of sophisticated and sleek lines.

The air is charged with typically macho bonhomie as the trio join HELLO! for a unique sartorial tête-à-tête.

Your personal style aesthetic…

Shantanu Nikhil: “Simple and straight forward. ‘Banker-chic’ is what best describes me. Custom made lounge jackets teamed with crisp shirts, skinny trousers and occasionally a rugged pair of jeans with a sporty tee or a polo, is my signature style statement.”

Nikhil Mehra: “My style is a window for my self expression. I like to mix and match and keep it subtle. Classic chic with small details such as bow-ties, belts, pocket squares, cufflinks and brooches, are what sets me apart.”

Abhay Deol: “I always keep it simple, comfortable, not too loud (with regards to colour) and appropriate for the occasion.”

How has your personal style evolved over the years?