Journalist Dylan Jones has been one of the most important movers and shakers in the UK fashion indusrty for the last 20 years. Best known for his role as Editor of GQ, he has also spearheaded i-D, Arena and The Face as well as contributing editor posts for The Sunday Times and The Observer. As host of this year’s Birmingham Style Awards he let us in on his own fashion secrets.

How would you describe your own personal style? I would have to say very traditional. I really like a good-quality, tailored suits from Saville Row in London which I suppose is quite a classic

Which celebrities do you think get it ‘right’? I think the people who look best are those who don’t try too hard and appear effortlessly stylish. Nowadays people seem to attempt to outdo each other in the fashion stakes but simple, classic style always stands out. A perfect example is Prince Charles because he always displays a natural, classic style.

What’s your biggest fashion faux par? I think it has to be a black, fake fur bomber jacket from 1985. It even had fake talons on the collar and ‘gigolo’ written across the back in silver plastic!

What’s the most exciting thing about working in the fashion industry? There are so many interesting people to meet in the fashion industry. It’s great to mix with such a wide and diverse range of people.

What item of clothing do you always turn to when you want to feel fabulous? I definitely feel my best in a good tailored suit, preferably in blue.

What’s the most embarrassing CD you own? Oh I have hundreds – well, to me they don’t feel embarrassing but I know that they are. I think if I had to choose, my most embarrassing CD would be Chris Rea’s Greatest Hits.

What item of clothing is still in your wardrobe that should’ve been dumped long ago? A pale blue corduroy suit – on the other hand, actually I may wear it to the Style Awards next year!

Who are your favourite designers? Well as I keep mentioning, I do like a well tailored suit and Richard James, Oliver Benjamin and Paul Smith do some really excellent ones.

What are your favourite high street stores? My favourite high street store is River Island, but I suppose I have to say that because my wife works for them. I do also quite like H&M, I think there’re some good pieces found there.

What’s your top fashion tip? When it comes to shopping, men need to learn how to browse. Men are normally straight in and out of shops but there is a lot to be said for having a proper browse. Also a lot of men get their wives to buy their clothes – please don’t! Oh and always brush your teeth before you go out.