The Man Shops Globe host reveals his personal style tips.
“My job, my life, is travel,” says New York–based Keith Johnson, whose 16 years as the buyer at large for Anthropologie have taken him from boutiques in Buenos Aires to markets in Bangkok, Cape Town, and beyond. Man Shops Globe—the Sundance Channel series inspired by his shopping expeditions for antique furnishings and found objects for the stores—starts its second season in June. So what matters to a man who’s on the road six months out of the year? “Comfort, and clothing rugged enough to take a lot of abuse. Plus, my trade is seeking out one-of-a-kind wares, so I’d better look the part.”
“My waxed-cotton Belstaff motorcycle jacket ($595) is both wind- and water-resistant; it keeps me dry and warm no matter where I am.”
Johnson opts for a soft, textured flannel shirt (45rpm; $372). “It even looks good when it’s wrinkled,” he says—perfect for packing.
“Everything about these jeans (John Varvatos; $198) is exactly right, from the exposed selvage on the pockets to the perfect dark wash.”
“I need something hard-wearing on my feet,” Johnson says. These thick-soled leather wing tips are from J.M. Weston ($800).
“It’s reliable and elegant, but not so precious I’m afraid to travel with it,” he says of his leather-strapped, stainless-steel Panerai ($8,300).
“Like all good things, my bag”—a waxed-canvas messenger by Maison Martin Margiela ($875)—“only looks better with age.”
“This is the closest thing to a French antiques fair in the U.K., just outside of London. There are lots of dealers selling French furniture and accessories. And lots of Francophile Brits.” Stains Rd. E., Sunbury on Thames; 44-19/3223-0946; kemptonantiques.com; second and last Tuesday of each month, 6:30 a.m. to 2 p.m.
“Her showroom in Milan always has something to surprise even the most seasoned shopper. I’d say it’s the world’s most brilliantly assorted home store.” 14 Via Matteo Bandello; 39-02/467-447-206.
“You’ll find everything from saris to snake charmers and curbside dentists at this market in Jodhpur. The colors and the commotion are intoxicating.” At the clock tower near Kunj Behari Temple.
“This is a Bangkok institution, with a fantastic assortment of textiles, antiques, plastic flowers, and some truly inspired contemporary art.” 2 Kamphaeng Phet Rd.
