Flip flops, red leather and James Bond wasn't what we'd expected to be chatting about with Opera Gallery London art director and curator Jean-David Malat. The former fashion model, designer and comedian counts Jude Law, Lionel Richie and Pierce Brosnan among his clientele, but is still worried about grey hair and wrinkles.
When I look in the mirror I see... I am looking in the mirror less because when I do I can see more and more white hair and wrinkles! But in the morning, I have to when I shave and it's the one moment of the day when I take time for myself. I find looking at oneself rather therapeutical: it is the time when I make sure that I look good and am ready to go into the world each morning.
If I were stranded on a desert island with one outfit it would be... a pair of blue jeans and a simple white t-shirt with a pair of havaianas. It is easy to wear and fits all situations.
When I was at school I wanted to be... in commerce. My grandfather had a fur shop in Paris and I remember watching him and thinking that this was what I wanted to do later in life. I wanted to sell furs and make coats. He had great connections with his clients - especially the women - and was a very talented salesman with great social skills. He was definitely an inspiration for me.
My biggest style triumph was... before I became an art dealer, I used to work in fashion. I remember attending a party and showing up wearing a red leather jacket by Voyage (they were SO famous back in 2000!), with snake trousers by Jitrois and a pair of santiags (cowboy boots). I think that was a real triumph.
If I could be any character from film or literature I would be... James Bond, because he is always such a gentleman, and always well dressed. And also, because he always managed to get himself out of tricky situations.
See Jean-David's latest exhibition Joe Black Ways Of Seeing at the Opera Gallery London from October 18 to November 8.