In an era where menswear is no longer confined to rigid confines but thrives at the intersection of tradition and rebellion, the role of male influencers has become pivotal in redefining what it means to dress with intention. The modern gentleman’s wardrobe is no longer restricted to a collection of suits and ties; it’s a dynamic canvas that reflects cultural shifts, sustainability and an aspiration for authenticity. Against this backdrop, Man’s World India sat down with Matthew Zorpas, The Gentlemen Blogger, creative consultant, and Istituto Marangoni London faculty member, to dissect what's shaping today’s sartorial landscape, fresh off an insightful panel discussion hosted by Man’s World and Istituto Marangoni Mumbai on “The Impact of Male Influencers on Fashion.”

The event, moderated by Man’s World editor Shivangi Lolayekar, featured a panel consisting of Zorpas alongside design maven Sandeep Gonsalves and men's tailoring savant Jeet Tailor. The discussion delved into the revival of bespoke craftsmanship as a counter to fast fashion, the democratisation of style through digital storytelling, and Gen Z’s demand for experience over aesthetics. As Zorpas states in our interview, influence today is less about fleeting virality and more about “curating identity”—a theme mirrored in menswear’s current renaissance.

Today’s trends are a study in contrasts. On one hand, there’s a return to heritage with sharp tailoring, trench coats, and leather loafers, while on the other, gender-fluid silhouettes and experimental layering challenge conventions, driven by a generation that views fashion as self-expression rather than obligation. Sustainability, too, has shifted from being just a buzzword to a non-negotiable. Consumers now demand transparency, longevity, and ethical production, a movement influencers like Zorpas champion by advocating for “investment dressing” and redefining luxury as something that endures.

Yet, the true revolution lies in how male influencers wield their voice. Gone are the days of polished, impersonal campaigns. Today’s icons blend curation with vulnerability, transforming platforms into dialogues. Zorpas embodies this shift, balancing his razor-sharp aesthetic with a refusal to chase trends. His approach, rooted in “selective adaptation,” mirrors a broader industry pivot toward authenticity. As he asserts, influence isn’t measured by follower counts but by the ability to inspire action, whether through advocating for slow fashion or reimagining formalwear with streetwise ease.

In this exclusive Q&A, Zorpas delves deeper into these dynamics, offering candid insights on the evolution of men's fashion influencers, the delicate balance between personal style and trends, and the ethical responsibilities that come with cultural clout. From debunking myths about the “effortless” influencer lifestyle to sharing his vision for a 1950s-inspired sartorial utopia, Zorpas’ reflections are both a manifesto for modern menswear and a roadmap for navigating its future.

Q: How has the role of fashion influencers changed over the past decade? 

A: The role of fashion influencers has evolved from being primarily aspirational figures to trusted curators, educators, and even entrepreneurs. A decade ago, the focus was on perfectly curated images and collaborations with luxury brands, but today, authenticity, storytelling, and direct engagement with audiences matter just as much. Influencers are now multi-dimensional—launching their own brands, curating collections, building communities and even shaping industry trends through deeper collaborations with designers and brands. 

Q: In the ever-growing space of content creators, do you think influencers still hold the same level of trust and authority as before? 

A: With the rise of content saturation, audiences are more selective about who they follow. Those who have built a genuine connection, consistently delivered value, and maintained transparency still hold significant authority. However, trust is no longer guaranteed simply by having a large following—it’s earned through credibility, expertise, and meaningful interactions. 

Q: What do you think separates a truly influential voice from someone who simply has a large following? 

A: A truly influential voice has the ability to shape opinions, drive conversations, and impact consumer behaviour beyond just showcasing products. Influence is built on credibility, consistency, and a unique point of view. Someone with a large following may have reach, but if they lack depth, authenticity, and the ability to inspire action, their influence remains surface-level. 

Q: How would you define your personal style in three words? 

A: Timeless, refined, contemporary. 

Q: What are some staple pieces that every modern gentleman should have in his wardrobe? 

A: A well-tailored navy blazer, a crisp white shirt, high-quality leather loafers, a perfectly fitted pair of trousers, and a classic trench coat. These pieces form the foundation of a versatile and sophisticated wardrobe. 

Q: How do you balance staying true to your aesthetic while also embracing new trends? 

A: It’s about selective adaptation. I always stay true to my core aesthetic, but I embrace trends that complement and enhance my existing style rather than overpower it. The key is to interpret trends in a way that aligns with my personal brand rather than letting them dictate my choices. 

Q: How do you decide which brands to collaborate with? 

A: I prioritise collaborations with brands that align with my values, aesthetics, and long-term vision. Authenticity is key—if I wouldn’t wear or use something in my everyday life, I won’t promote it. I also look for brands that respect creativity and allow for genuine storytelling rather than just product placement. 

Q: What’s a common misconception about being a fashion influencer? 

A: That it’s effortless. The reality is that it involves meticulous planning, creative direction, negotiation, and constant innovation. It’s a business that requires strategic thinking, adaptability, and an understanding of branding, marketing, and consumer psychology. 

Q: How has the business of fashion influencing changed in terms of monetisation and partnerships? 

A: Monetisation has evolved from basic sponsored posts to long-term brand ambassadorships, product collaborations, and even influencer-led fashion lines. Brands now seek more integrated storytelling and partnerships, and influencers are expected to provide tangible value and visibility. 

Q: What responsibility do influencers have in shaping consumer behaviour? 

A: Influencers play a significant role in shaping trends and purchasing decisions, so there’s a responsibility to promote mindful consumption. This means advocating for quality over quantity, highlighting sustainable options, and being transparent about brand values and production ethics. 

Q: How do you approach sustainability in your own wardrobe and content? 

A: I focus on investment dressing—choosing timeless, high-quality pieces that last for years rather than chasing fast fashion. I also promote re-wearing and styling the same pieces in multiple ways to challenge the idea of disposable fashion. 

Q: Have you ever turned down a collaboration for ethical reasons? 

A: No. I carefully select partnerships from the start, ensuring they align with my values and standards. 

Q: What’s the biggest fashion mistake you’ve ever made? 

A: None. Every choice has been a learning experience that shaped my style into what it is today. 

Q: If you could swap wardrobes with any historical figure for a day, who would it be and why? 

A: Federico Fellini. His effortless blend of sophistication and nonchalance is unparalleled. He mastered the art of simplistic formal style. 

Q: What’s one fashion rule you love to break? 

A: The idea that you can’t mix formal and casual elements. A tailored blazer with sneakers? Absolutely. Style is about balance and confidence. 

Q: What’s the most unusual place you’ve ever shot a fashion campaign? 

A: A secluded, windswept beach in Greece at sunrise. The contrast of sharp tailoring against the raw natural landscape made for a striking visual. 

Q: If you had to live in one fashion era forever, which one would it be, and why? 

A: The 1950s. The elegance, the impeccable tailoring, and the emphasis on polished dressing align perfectly with my aesthetic.