8 April 2019

Style Scene - Dave Elliot

| Daniella Jukic
Start the conversation

Dave Elliot, Executive Director at Agile Digital. Photos: @wearefoundau.

Style Scene is a series that showcases the best of Canberra’s street fashion. Produced by Daniella Jukic, Style Scene is out to prove that the nation’s capital is just as fashion-conscious as its big-city counterparts.

Street style photography is a great way to show that fashion has a place in our everyday life. Fashion from the catwalk is translated to the streets as wearable trends. What we wear is an expression of our individual style. My aim is to focus my lens on the streets of Canberra to show that fashion is very much alive in the nation’s capital.

I like when life surprises you and challenges your current way of thinking. Recently I met with local software engineer David Elliot who challenged my style assumptions of the IT industry.

Dave’s background is in Computer Science and Engineering, having studied at the ANU.

I will be honest – traditionally I wouldn’t turn to the IT industry for a style stalker. However, I was pleasantly surprised when I saw David walking down Lonsdale street wearing confidence and pops of colour.

In today’s world, we can longer afford to stereotype how people dress. There are less fashion ‘industry’ norms which is a fantastic evolution in styling, in my opinion.

Name: David Elliot

Occupation: Executive Director at Agile Digital

Describe your style in three words? Fun, fresh and social.

I agree with Dave’s description and couldn’t help but highlight that the IT industry wasn’t a usual place I find style stalkers. He proceeded to share a lovely memory with me that has since influenced his style ethos in his career.

“I remember going to a career day at Canberra Grammar School in 1989. They brought in a number of professionals such as lawyers, doctors, and a computer programmer. He looked like he wasn’t having much fun. I didn’t want to ever be that person. When I dress for work, I try to bring some pizazz to an industry not known for its’ sartorial splendour,” said David.

His outfit is courtesy of MJ Bale for the blazer and Blades for the suiting.

His outfit is courtesy of MJ Bale for the blazer and Blades for the suiting.

I think Dave has done just that. His outfit is courtesy of MJ Bale for the blazer, Blades for the suiting and finished with shoes handmade in Europe.

“I love shopping at Blades and have been a fan since my high school dances.”

“I am a repeat customer because when I walk in, Rodney goes, ‘hi Dave’ and hands me clothing that simply fit perfectly. They are professionals in what they do.”

Early in his career as an intern, Dave picked up a piece of fashion advice that has stuck with him ever since which is: ‘people are judged by their shoes’.

“Too many people tend to neglect their shoe choice. The focus is generally waist up, thinking that is good enough. If someone really cares they will have a great pair of shoes to complete the look.”

Laughing, Dave explained that “I have a philosophy when I walk into a meeting and want to know who the boss is, I look at their shoes.”

A great pair of shoes complete Dave’s look.

What I loved about Dave’s look was his attention to detail. The pocket square perfectly complimented the buttons on his crisp white shirt.

“I think there has been shift in men’s fashion, ties have fallen out of fashion. Men are now looking to other things like pocket squares and socks,” Dave says.

Dave is a testament to the fact that clothes maketh the man.

And to round off his look? the one thing Dave can’t live without is the Truefitt & Hill West Indian shaving range ensuring a close shave and good skin.

Start the conversation

Daily Digest

Want the best Canberra news delivered daily? Every day we package the most popular Riotact stories and send them straight to your inbox. Sign-up now for trusted local news that will never be behind a paywall.

By submitting your email address you are agreeing to Region Group's terms and conditions and privacy policy.