The Man Behind the Style: Robert Wilkerson

​Setting the Stage
The newly renovated The Venue, a luxurious event space nestled in the heart of Columbia, South Carolina, provided the perfect backdrop for our exclusive interview with Robert Wilkerson, a renowned Style Icon of Columbia Fashion Week. The venue's elegant ambiance, with its soaring ceilings, plush furnishings, and impeccable attention to detail, mirrored Wilkerson's own refined aesthetic.

As we sat down with Wilkerson, it was immediately apparent that his style was more than just clothing. It was a reflection of his personality, a carefully curated expression of his individuality. His words, delivered with a quiet confidence, painted a vivid picture of a man who had spent years perfecting his craft.

A Personal Style Revolution
Wilkerson's approach to fashion is rooted in a deep appreciation for both classic and contemporary styles. He described his personal aesthetic as "remaining classic but still adding nuance and flair." This ability to seamlessly blend tradition with newness is a hallmark of his unique style. "I am a lover of a classic style and foundational styling but adding my twists so you can see my personality," Wilkerson explained. "It's about understanding the art of thrifting and high end and being able to blend both." This philosophy is evident in his carefully chosen outfits from colors, to accessories, to patterns.

Influences and Inspirations
Wilkerson's style has been shaped by a variety of influences, both personal and professional. His parents, he revealed, played a significant role in developing his appreciation for fashion. His mother, a skilled thrifter, taught him the value of finding unique pieces and repurposing them. His father, on the other hand, introduced him to the world of high-end fashion, working as a personal shopper at Bloomingdale's and Suit Supply. "I have an understanding of what high end fashion looks and feels like and what fabric and patterns are best for what season," Wilkerson explained. “But also understanding that with the thrifting part of it, there’s a level of humility that you get out of it. And it allows you to be able to make somebody's trash your treasure."

A Contrarian's Approach
While many people follow fashion trends to the letter, Wilkerson takes a contrarian approach. "I never follow trends to its exact T," he stated. "Majority of people are already going to do that." Instead, he selects elements from trends that resonate with his personal style and incorporates them into his own unique aesthetic. This approach allows Wilkerson to maintain his individuality and stand out from the crowd. It also ensures that his wardrobe remains timeless, rather than being dictated by fleeting fashion trends.

Read more in our upcoming Fall publication!