Style Talk with Lucas Nicholson: Gucci loafers, vintage Ralph Lauren shorts and wearing black in summer

Some men collect stamps, Lucas Nicholson collects Gucci loafers. Eleven pairs and counting, each in a different leather, including a vintage crocodile pair he scored for a steal. That small detail says a lot about his approach to style: rooted in quality, character, and a touch of the unexpected. For Lucas, summer is a season to lean into comfort without losing polish: loose linen shirts in vibrant colors, vintage Ralph Lauren shorts, and shoes that work as hard on the Riviera as they do in London.

In this Style Talk, he shares the pieces he can’t leave the house without and why eBay is his playground for fun, easy watches. He lets us peek inside his South of France packing list, explains the logic behind breaking “no black in summer”, and reveals the subtle tricks that keep him looking sharp in the heat.

We caught up with him for a late summer #StyleTalk. Here's what we found out.

What’s your go-to summer look?

“Loose shirt and vintage shorts (Ralph Lauren Tyler) with a loafer of some kind if I’m working, or a plain plimsoll if I'm off work.” - Lucas Nicholson

What’s your favorite fabric to wear when it’s hot, and do you have a favourite brand?

Lucas Nicholson: I tend to run hot! So as soon as summer hits I tend to go for loose fits in lightweight natural fibres, mainly linen if possible. Shirts I tend to get from Luca Avitabile in Naples. I had a chambray shirt made which is woven in linen by Thomas Mason that is great, with two pockets which I feel you need in the summer for carrying things if you aren't wearing a jacket.

Lucas Nicholson’s love affair with Gucci loafers runs deep. So deep, in fact, that he’s amassed quite a collection, each in a different leather. For him, these shoes are versatile enough to work with a crisp summer outfit or elevate a casual look, always adding that unmistakable touch of elegance he’s known for.

You like to wear Gucci loafers. Do you have a favorite pair and a crazy story behind it?

Lucas Nicholson: Ha! Yes I'm a fan. I think I'm at around 11/12 pairs now all in different leathers. No crazy stories but one of my favorites are a pair in vintage crocodile leather that I got for an absolute steal! 

We know that sunglasses and watches are essential accessories that elevate any outfit by adding both function and style. A great pair of shades not only protects your eyes from the sun but also frames your face, giving your look an extra layer of personality. Similarly, a carefully chosen watch reflects your taste and attention to detail while keeping you on time. With that in mind, we asked Lucas about his favorite sunglasses and watches.

Favorite brand of sunglasses to wear during the summer?

Lucas Nicholson: As I wear glasses everyday I tend to wear the Moscot Lemtosh as my glasses and their clip ons (cliptosh) for ease! But I also lean on the classic Ray-Ban wayfarer, or Oakley for a more sporty look! I also have some Randolph engineering semi aviators in metal which can feel a bit more dressy.

Favorite watch brands? Which timepieces do you trust to complete your look?

“Watches are something I’m not as in to as clothes, but I have a great one I bought around 6 years ago which is a Cartier Tank Basculante which feels really special to me.” - Lucas Nicholson

Lucas Nicholson: If I am not wearing that I have a vintage gold chronograph that was pretty cheapo from eBay and I just had the strap changes by ABP in Paris to a turquoise lizard skin. Or an arabic dial Seiko which is a classic stainless steel and integrated strap. I also have a G-Shock made in Japan which is my go-to travel watch.

Where do you usually go when you’re looking to buy a new watch? Any favorite shops or online spots?

Lucas Nicholson: Honestly I love eBay. If you are buying something really expensive (above £5k) I would maybe go somewhere slightly more reputable but for fun easy watches ebay is great!

Packing light and smart is key when heading to a stylish getaway, especially somewhere like the South of France. We wanted to know what essentials Lucas takes with him to stay comfortable and sharp under the sun, so we asked about his go-to pieces for a week away.

You’re escaping to the south of France for the week. What are you packing?

Lucas Nicholson: I bought 7 bright colours of very loose linen shirts in a market in the south of France so I would pick them up, Paraboot sandals and a couple of pairs of the Ralph Lauren shorts mentioned earlier. I like to pack light! I might throw on my Permanent Style Overshirt for travelling as it has a bunch of pockets

Favorite local tailor in London you’d recommend?

Lucas Nicholson: Ooo tough question, I love what Fred does at Taillour and I have a jacket from him. The guys at Speciale have great taste as well.

Tell us more about Novel Mart. What’s a must-have from the brand for the summer?

Lucas Nicholson: Novel Mart was started after I left Drake's. It was a total right place right time situation. No one could travel as it was covid and so I sold hats and t-shirts with cocktails and food on. So even if you couldn't travel you could represent your favourite vacation snack/drink.

Do you switch fragrances for the season, or stick to one signature scent? Which one?

Lucas Nicholson: I don’t switch per season necessarily but in the summer I lean more to lighter fragrances. Current favourites are Sunday Cologne by Byredo and Aqua della Regina by Santa Maria Novella.

What summer style rule do you love to break?

Lucas Nicholson: Not wearing black. I don't find that lighter colors make me feel cooler so I think in the evening, a lightweight black shirt with buttons undone can be a very sexy look. Makes the tan pop.

Your everyday essentials. What three things do you never leave the house without?

Lucas Nicholson: Pocket knife, phone and keys. That's all I need.

In your view, what are the timeless pieces every modern gentleman should invest in, no matter the trends?

Lucas Nicholson: Good shoes, can really lift an outfit. Also shirts get over looked a lot but especially in summer a great shirt can be a whole outfit. So make sure it fits and choose an interesting cloth.

Do you have a hidden gem in London you love to escape to? Could be a café, park, bar…

Lucas Nicholson: My favourite is my local area. There is a walk from Putney to Hammersmith, which is along the river and shaded. There are also a handful of very good pubs along the route so it feels like you are out of London.

Pictures: Lucas Nicholson, Lorenzo Sodi, Jamie Ferguson