A regular fixture of the international fashion stage, Tommy Ton has long been studying design through a streetstyle lens, absorbing what women wear – and how they like to wear it – compiling an internal album of references and visual nuances that could rival even his sprawling sartorial scrapbooks.
When he took up the mantle at Deveaux, previously a unisex label, Tommy translated all of his knowledge and know-how – which only comes from years of careful observation – into a new womenswear-specific direction for the brand that celebrates diversity, realism and timeless sophistication.
Having held the position of Creative Director for little over a year now – and, in the wake of his first triumphant runway showcase – now seems like the perfect time for Tommy to reveal a little more behind his daily inspirations.
What's the mantra you tell yourself first thing in the morning?
Everything is meant to be at a certain time.
How do you take your coffee?
I don't drink coffee... It's a conscious choice! Instead, I have one glass of celery juice in the mornings.
If you weren't doing what you're doing now, what would you be doing instead? Dog-walker or Marine Biologist.
If you could only keep one outfit in your wardrobe, which would it be? Hawaiian shirt by Prada and my United Arrows for GAP chinos.
Who's one person you'd love to have dinner with?
Barefoot Contessa, because she is the most calming and insightful person.
What's the main thing you would like to achieve this year?
To continue developing Deveaux into a brand, for my dog Mochi to enter the Westminster Dog Show... And maybe to learn Japanese!
Who would you want to record your audio autobiography, voice-wise?
Ina Garten.
Why did you end up doing what you do?
I knew immediately when I was 13 years-old that I wanted to be in fashion.
Click here to shop Deveaux.
More 8Qs:
+ Natalia Alaverdian: "Meeting strangers is often awkward"
+ Alexa Chung:"Nobody has a mantra - except for people being interviewed!"
+ Levi Palmer & Mathew Harding: "I tend to spend a lot of time with my mind in the future"
