Instagram star and model Nick Bateman reveals his sartorial secrets 

If anyone had any doubts about the real-life popularity of Instagram stars, Canadian model and actor Nick Bateman laid it all to rest with the fan frenzy that ensued following his visit to Mumbai last week.

Although the martial-arts expert turned actor has bagged roles in movies and daytime television over the years, it is his carefully curated Instagram account with 6.7 million followers that earned him a role as the face for Bulgari’s new fragrance for men, among his other modelling gigs for brands like Calvin Klein. The model was in India for Lakme Fashion Week in association with Etihad and let us in on his wardrobe favourites and sartorial secrets. 

Suit to thrill
There is little that delivers the satisfaction of putting on a suit that has been made to fit just for you. “An old friend from Canada, Hussein Dalla has been customising suits for me for years.” Offering an alternative to his bespoke suits, Nick tells us that on the occasion he likes to try on suits from Hugo Boss. Capturing his signature two-piece look, this dark blue vertical stripe suit from Boss Menswear’s FC Bayern Munich Collection makes for an occasion staple. With slim fit trousers and a two-button jacket with AMF stitching, this virgin wool suit has a natural stretch and can be combined together for a refined look or worn separately for a host of smart-casual looks. Rs 72, 870 approximately

Regal conquest
A step away from his usual tailored two-piece suit for dressy events, Nick’s favourite Indian ethnic wear is the custom-made black bandhgala with silver jaal embroidery paired alongside a dark navy blue kurta with red lining by designer Manish Malhotra. We think this midnight black textured jacket from the couturier fits the bill. Complete with red piping and an embroidered floral brooch, this jacket embodies the Canadian model’s look while allowing you to hone your own sense of style. Rs 88,000 approximately

Coming clean
“I keep things pretty simple and just wash my face in the morning with water and maybe once a week I’ll use a mask.” Nick suggests we try the Supermud mask from Glamglow. A departure from thick mud masks, this mask has a thin and silky texture that clears clogged pores and removes blackheads. To be used either as a full mask or a one spot solution for blemished areas, this mask works to absorb skin impurities, without affecting any natural oils. Rs 1,600 for 15 gm 

Check mate
Describing his style as practical that can be dressed down or up with the right accessories, a tank top with a button down shirt from DTLA, Zara or H&M are his must-haves for a casual evening. “I am a very neutral guy when it comes to colour and love comfortable fits,” he shares. Paired up with a white tank top, try this tonal brown tartan check shirt from Kiton that infuses a classic flavour to this laid-back look. A straight fit with classic collars, this cashmere-silk shirt is high on comfort. Rs 1,97,050 approximately

Jean theory
“Perfectly fitted denims are a staple for any wardrobe. But I need to be able to move effortlessly in them,” says the martial arts expert who started his training when he was four. For this look, we recommend the mid-rise skinny jeans by Valentino. Italian-made with just the right amount of stretch, these jeans ensure a great fit and effortless movement. Rs 55,370 approximately

Merry-go-round
“The brand I’ve worn consistently is Ray-Ban. I literally buy a new pair each month.” Faithful to the classic style, Nick’s latest pair of sunnies is the tried and tested round silhouette, The Moll. Inspired by the counter-culture movement of the 1960s, this retro gold metal sunglasses from Ray-Ban with green lenses has signature round crystal lenses and a distinct shape that defined the iconic look which was sported by legendary musicians. Rs 10,700 approximately.