Gabrielle Trach

On the latest episode of Let’s Talk Clothes I sit down with photographer, future dog owner, and coffee enthusiast Arman Bahreini. In this episode Arman and I discuss personal style evolution, dressing for comfort and practicality, and emotional attachment to clothing.

When asked about his personal relationship with clothing Arman has to take a moment to think about it; sticking to a simple personal dress code since his youth, Arman doesn’t consider himself “fashion-conscious”. After giving it some thought, however, he realizes that most of his clothing choices have been quiet rebellions since childhood. Being able to wear what was comfortable — jeans and a t-shirt — over what was seen as appropriate — button up and dress pants — felt like a transgressive act. As he got older Arman tried out a more polished look for himself, but it never felt quite right. Now in his mid-twenties, Arman has made himself a uniform of sorts, usually comprised of a (plaid) button-up and jeans; a good balance of casual and just a little bit polished. 

Arman’s uniform is also based out of comfort and practicality; he doesn’t enjoy wearing clothing that feels inauthentic to who he is. As mentioned before, he tried the dress shirt and tie look, but it didn’t feel right. Arman’s work, and art practice, also allow him to dress for comfort rather than to a specific dress code being dictated to him. Both his day job and art practice require him to be on his feet for long periods of time, which calls for comfort over style more often than not, and this suits Arman just fine.

Like many people, Arman has sentimental attachments to his garments, namely his collection of band t-shirts. Since high school, band t-shirts have acted as mementos from the concerts of his favourite bands, connecting him to memories and experiences. This tradition has continued on into his adulthood; Arman has amassed countless band t-shirts over the years. Wearing band t-shirts not only allows Arman to show his support for his favourite bands and artists, it’s also a point of connection and a potential conversation starter with others. This sentimental connection to his clothes makes it difficult for him to part with these garments, but is worth the creative storage solutions if it means holding on to mementos and keepsakes.

Other things discussed in this episode: Arman being one of the first supporters, as well as creative collaborator, of the podcast, as well as the early creative concepts for the podcast (see below); David Bowie as a style icon (so many eras and looks to choose from); and my (still unfulfilled) promise to make Arman a quilt out of his old band t-shirts and other favourite shirts.

If you want to see what Arman is up to, or check out his photography, you can follow him on Instagram @armanalog or check out his website. You can follow the podcast on Instagram at @talkclothespodcast, or get in touch by emailing talkclothes@gmail.com. Please share, subscribe, and rate on Apple Podcast — I’m trying harder to get the word out. If you like what you see and hear, tell a friend! Thank you for stopping by and I’ll see you in a couple weeks!

-Gabby