Harper’s BAZAAR: What does fragrance mean to you? What kind of scents do you tend to veer towards and why?
David Gandy: Fragrance is important to me. Scent has the ability to transport you to a memory or moment experienced, which you may have completely forgotten about otherwise. It also helps to lift your mood and even carve out an identity for yourself. I love it when someone associates a fragrance with me. In summer I tend to veer towards a crisp and citrus, masculine scent, so I love Light Blue.
Any tips on fragrance application or how you like to wear your fragrances?
DG: I actually like to spray the perfume on my clothes. I also think it’s quite a nice idea to spray my pillow because it’s comforting to be able to smell someone’s scent, even if they aren’t with you at the time.
How would you describe the Swimming in Lipari scent? Does it remind you of anything in particular?
DG: Swimming in Lipari is very crisp and fresh, so it conjures up memories of diving into a swimming pool or going for an early morning dip in the sea on holiday.
How does Swimming in Lipari differ from the other Dolce & Gabbana Fragrances?
DG: I like the Dolce & Gabbana Fragrances. I love Light Blue for its freshness and vibrance. For me, Swimming in Lipari stands out as the perfect summer fragrance and is actually my favourite of the limited editions. But I also like The One and Vetiver from the Velvet Collection for the evening or a special occasion.
Who is the Swimming in Lipari man?
DG: The Swimming in Lipari man is adventurous, energetic and masculine. He appreciates the beauty of nature, good food and culture. He is someone who likes to explore new and exotic locations, but is also happy to relax on a beautiful beach.
To which countries/cities would you take Swimming in Lipari to?
DG: You can take it anywhere and it will transport you into summer, whether you are already somewhere hot and exotic or somewhere cold and windy and you want to be reminded of sunnier settings.
How would you describe the modern man’s relationship with grooming?
DG: I think it’s a lot more acceptable for men to take pride in their appearance, and there’s a lot more products out there for men now, too. At the end of the day, everyone wants to look and feel at their best, so it shouldn’t matter if you’re a man or a woman doing that.
What are some of your grooming essentials? What are a few products you feel a man shouldn’t live without?
DG: I don’t like to spend too much time on grooming so I keep it quite simple with a few key products, like my SK-II moisturiser, some rose oil as well as one of the Light Blue fragrances.
In the past, men used to only own one scent and one scent only. Do you feel like men need a variety for different occasions?
DG: I think some men do like to pick a scent, own it, and make it part of his identity. I tend to wear something light and vibrant in the warmer months. On some dark and gloomy English winter days, it’s nice to spray Light Blue and be transported into my memories of the Mediterranean.
What’s the best part about being a Dolce & Gabbana model? What does representing the brand mean to you?
DG: I think travelling to the Mediterranean is a definite highlight. I’m proud to represent the Light Blue fragrance as I really like it and I wouldn’t be where I am today without it. I’m very grateful for everything we’ve achieved together.
What else can we look forward from you with regards to your partnership with Dolce & Gabbana, or in other aspects of your career?
DG: I’m still working with the British Fashion Council, and I do lots of work with my charity, Battersea Dogs and Cats. I’m also expanding the David Gandy line at Marks and Spencer.
If you’re keen on meeting the man himself, David Gandy will be making an appearance at Sephora, ION Orchard, on 18 October 2015 from 4-5pm.
Interview by Amelia Chia
