Toronto’s Best Dressed: Michael Wekerle

Toronto’s Best Dressed: Michael Wekerle

Michael Wekerle
Wekerle, at home near Bayview and Steeles, wears a Tom Ford tuxedo, Ralph Lauren shirt and Santoni shoes (Photograph by Evaan Kheraj)

For a notorious eccentric, Michael Wekerle’s approach to fashion is downright conservative. “My mother always taught me to be a well-heeled man,” he says. “Because it doesn’t take any money to make sure that your shoes are polished, that you’re well manicured. The people who look successful tend to be successful.” By that logic, Wekerle is thriving. Whether he’s marching down Bay Street or spewing fire on Dragons’ Den, he favours snugly fitting three-piece suits and starched shirts with French cuffs and big collars, all made in the best, most comfortable fabrics—because, well, he’s earned it. “I make very quick decisions about clothes, and I rarely try things on,” he says. “I know what I like when I see it.” What he likes is big bow ties, rakish hats and sunglasses all day and night—a little business, a little rock ’n’ roll and a whole lot of swagger.

My Stuff

Italian Footwear
“Santoni shoes are custom-made in Italy. They come in several styles—mine are croc.” $850–$3,500. V Hazelton, 5 Hazelton Ave., 416-323-0909.
Signature Scent
“Tom Ford’s citrusy Neroli Portofino is one of my favourites. I’ve been wearing it for ages.” $245 for 50 mL. Harry Rosen, 82 Bloor St. W., 416-972-0556.
Sunscreen
“Hampton Sun makes a great spray gel. You’ve got to take care of your skin—especially when you’ve got lots of tattoos, like me.” $66. Canadabeautysupply.ca.
Bespoke Suit
“Tom Ford is my go-to business look, but I turn to Kiton when I need something really cool.” $5,500–$8,600. V Hazelton, 5 Hazelton Ave., 416-323-0909.

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