Matt Sova, 39, is a personal shopper at A.K. Rikk’s, 6303 28th St. SE, Grand Rapids. He’s a sucker for formal wear and thinks every man should own a gorgeous pair of handcrafted shoes, well-fitted dark blue jeans, a tailored jacket and a luxury fragrance that’s sexy and masculine.
Do you remember when style started to take root in your life?
Both my parents appreciated the finer things. My mother loved quality fabrics and sewed and my dad loved cool cars, cool clothes. I remember trying to experiment with fashion when I was in middle school in a small town. I definitely wanted my own style and to stand out and be myself rather than look like everybody else.
You’ve said you love luxury, what does luxury mean to you?
I love the quality and the time it takes to create something so special and so elevated. Luxury goes beyond clothes to food, wine and travel. All of the senses can understand luxury and quality. I have a huge appreciation for craftsmanship and handwork.
Explain the role of a personal shopper?
My job is to create clothing that works for my client’s lifestyle and personal style wants and needs. When I get ready for a client to come in I make a number of outfits for their event or occasion. That means head-to-toe dressing — creating the perfect look so they can make an entrance and look better than everyone in the room. Also, making time to clean out closets and create new outfits out of old clothing to refresh what they already own.
Where are your style inspirations coming from these days?
I’m inspired by how knowledgeable and style savvy the everyday customer is starting to become. Even Target and H&M collaborating with designers to create approachable price points on fashionable goods.
Let’s talk style icons, who’s on your list and why?
I’ve always loved Alexander McQueen, Tom Ford and Zac Posen. Ford, because he has a tailored sexiness and confidence. McQueen, because of his ability to push outside of the box and create something unique and artful. Posen, because of his ability to bring the best out in a woman’s body, curves, sexuality and strength.
What are some of your past accomplishments that you’re proud of?
A friend of mine will be featured in Martha StewartWeddings magazine. I took care of the groom along with the groomsmen. Also, this past year I’ve had some on-camera interviews with celebrities like Nigel Barker, Daniel Wingate with Escada and Adam Lippes, who spoke at Kendall College during his collaboration with Target. I absolutely loved interviewing them and finding out what makes them tick.
To book an appointment with Sova, visit akrikks.com.
